Fishing Frenzy

In many cases composite materials are the best choice for the construction of a boat's hull. This term refers to a mixture of fibers and a matrix or bulk material melded together. The matrix alone would be waterproof but would be very weak. The fiber reinforcement by itself would not be waterproof, but the combination is strong and relatively light.

As a combination of cellulose fibers and lignin matrix, wood is actually one of nature's composites. It can be a good material for boat hulls. However, in this context composite generally refers to synthetic material.

Fiberglass can be a very good material for boat hulls. It is sometimes applied on top of wood, but modern designs use only fiberglass to save weight, as it is both strong and light. A variety of resins can be used for the matrix. The fibers are combined to create sheets, which are laid down on a form that is in the shape of the hull. Then the matrix is spread on. Some resins cure over time, others need to be heated.

For the utmost in great strength and low weight, carbon fiber composites are generally used. They would probably replace fiberglass if they were not relatively costly. Using them to make a hull involves processes similar to the ones used with fiberglass.

Composites are not the only choices for hull construction. Larger boats generally use metals, either aluminum or steel. Composites generally give smaller boats a better strength versus weight trade off. If high strength is not important, then an inflatable may be the best choice for a light boat.

Someone who uses a boat for pleasure may not have preferences for how it is built. However, in many situations, it is important to them that the boat be both robust and not too heavy. In this case, they are likely to be happiest with a composite hull that uses fiber reinforcement to achieve both of these goals.