A Study of Basalt Fibres Composite on 23m Cruise Sailing Yacht

Abstract

A number of materials are now available to promote a sustainable small craft industry, such as basalt fibre, the primary focus of this work. In terms of mechanical properties, basalt fibre has a higher elastic modulus and tensile strength than fibreglass, the most common material currently used. However, at present, no mechanical properties are available to develop the scantlings of yachts using basalt fibre. Nevertheless, it is hoped by the industry that basalt fibre could lead to the lighter boat for the same strength.

This master thesis will investigate the structural benefits and inherent hull weight reduction that can be achieved by basalt fibre, in accordance with small craft regulation; namely the ISO 12215-5. In order to assess the mechanical properties of the novel composite material, tensile, compressive and flexural tests have been undertaken based on the relevant composite testing standards (ISO 527-5, ISO 14126, and ISO 14125). Validation will also be undertaken using finite element method, considering the Tsai-Wu failure criteria of the basalt fibre laminate.

The research then continues to the real application and comparison of fibreglass and basalt fibre, applied to the design of a 24m sailing yacht, aimed at recreational cruising. The preliminary design developed a structural analysis, weights and centres, stability, resistance and a velocity prediction. All aspect regarding the materials, as well as the preliminary design calculations, are then evaluated by using multiple attribute decision making (MADM) to find the rating of basalt material and ascertain the suitability of its applications in sailing yachts.

Basalt fibre having better mechanical properties than fibreglass, it was demonstrated that a lighter, and therefore faster boat could be achieved, in a more sustainable way, thus showing that basalt fibre is a viable alternative to fibreglass in the small craft industry