Composites explored for maritime use

The collaboration is part of Eco Marine Power’s ongoing Aquarius Eco Ship Project and will also investigate the use of CFRP propellers to improve efficiency and reduce underwater noise created by ship propulsion systems.

“The innovative development work related to composite materials already undertaken by Nakashima Propeller combined with cutting edge development projects being undertaken by Eco Marine Power, will open up a range of new applications for this technology onboard ships and for other maritime applications,” said Greg Atkinson, president & chief technology officer at Eco Marine Power.

CFRP and GFRP are composite materials which can provide both strength and lightness and be tailored to meet specific requirements. The first application that the duo is working on is the design, manufacture and installation of composite material solar panel mounting frames for use on board a bulk cargo ship.

The two companies also aim to use composite material technology from Nakashima Propeller for the sail structure for Eco Marine Power’s wind-assisted EnergySail.

Work to develop solar panel mounting frame kits made from composite materials has already commenced and these frames are due for onboard installation within the next six months.