Zyvex Marine and Pacific Coast Marine use nanocomposites to create lightweight, durable doors, hatches and other closures for ships. The components and samples of the new product were unveiled at the 2012 Hiper Craft show in Virginia, USA, June 26-27.
The general manager of Zyvex Marine said that unmanned surface ships use traditional materials weighing up to 40,000 pounds, while carbon nano-reinforced carbon fiber materials use only 8,000 pounds. Today, Pacific Coast Marine and Zyvex's hatches are 66% lighter than traditional doors, from 150 pounds to just 50 pounds, and are more durable. The development of high-performance carbon nanocomposite production capacity means cost-effective prices.