Trans RINA, Vol 154, Part C1, Intl J Marine Design, Jan - Jun 2012
The processes of implementation are also very important. Therefore, we need to encourage industry and research centers working on new materials. The NavEcoMat project, carried out by the company PLASMOR, the University of South Brittany, IFREMER, Groupe Finot, Catherine Chabaud, and Ahlstrom, aims to develop high performance biocomposite material, consisting
of
vegetable fiber support and a biodegradable matrix or binder, compatible with the constraints of manufacturing and use of small recreational watercraft.
The objective is to obtain a biocomposite suitable for structural use in the marine sector, likely to compete with the glass polyester, fully bio-based,
biodegradable at end of life. The most promising track is a composite based on reinforced linen and a bio-based matrix, recyclable and compostable,
recyclable and called PLA,
produced from corn starch or potato. An environmental impact assessment is also made to compare this solution to the environmental impact of glass/polyester. This first biocomposite prototype was shown at Paris Boat Show in December 2011.
In France, 95 % of recreational craft [4] are built of composite materials derived from oil, hence the great need to find viable alternatives quickly.
4.4 GREENER EQUIPMENT
Eco-design does not end at the shipyards. The equipment adapted to the vessel is also important. For propulsion, for instance, there is a whole set of solutions that depend on the use we want for our boat. In recent years much progress has been made to develop electric and hybrid propulsion technically and economically feasible.
Naviwatt is a young company to design, manufacture and commercially exploit electric leisure boats. Yannick Wileveau, naval architect, has designed a boat with an innovative concept for coastal waters, the Zephyr 570 (figure 2). This boat, equipped with an outboard motor of 2 or 4 kW and a lead- or lithium-based battery offers an alternative to over-motorized vehicles
designed to
connect point A to point B in minimum time. Here the difference is visible and audible.
We also note that a number of architects have opted for multihulls such as catamaran or trimaran to optimize the hydrodynamics of their boat and thus reduce the power needed for propulsion.
Other industries are not far behind. Significantly affected by the increase in oil prices and declining fish stocks, the fishing industry must now review its practices but also its boats. The company Avel Vor Technology has understood and, supported by the Brittany Maritime Cluster (Pôle Mer) has developed the project Grand Largue (figure 3). This project aims to establish a system of automated sails, in addition to the engine on fishing or coastal boats, new or existing. The first experiments carried out on an old wooden fishing boat showed that sails bring significant savings, depending on wind conditions and the way of steering the boat. For instance, with winds of 15-20 knots, the economy can reach 51 %.
Figure 3: Avel Vor Technologie, project Grand Largue 4.5 RENEWABLE ENERGY ON BOARD
As for the energy management on board, many smart products
have emerged. Whether in production or reduction at the source many products are to be promoted.
Today it is possible to produce electric power on board ships from renewable energy. Solar, wind, boat speed, currents or even organic waste are sources of energy that allow a significant generation of electricity. The offer on the market is relatively high and prices are acceptable. Thus we find on the market three types of equipment which are technically and economically viable: wind, hydro-generation and solar panels.
In the field of ocean racing Yannick Bestaven designed and developed a hydro-generator to supply about 150 Watts at 9 knots and about 500 Watts at full power. These rates can ensure energy autonomy of a 60-foot IMOCA during a Vendee Globe race. Hydro-generators are now available for leisure boats.
Fuel cells have attractive features and will certainly grow in importance in coming years.
Figure 2: Electric boat Zephyr 570 ©2012: The Royal Institution of Naval Architects C-13
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