ENTROPY RESINS: SailZero: A New Wave
The SailZero Project. Their goal? To design an efficient cruising boat that minimises reliance on fossil fuels and lithium. The duo behind this ambitious project have expertise in traditional wooden sailboat building and modern engineering. They aim to create a distinctive, eco-friendly boat.
The boat’s modern, open plan interior will be constructed using lightweight composite materials. This design poses a significant engineering challenge: achieving equilibrium between strength and weight to withstand the harsh conditions of the open ocean. “It’s going to be a crazy challenge to get the balance right.” – Jenni
Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind the SailZero project?
The inspiration behind the SailZero project stems from a desire to break free from traditional commercial constraints.
Profit margins, tight deadlines, and client demands often dictate the design and construction process within boatbuilding. However, SailZero, wants to prioritise creativity and purpose over these limitations. Having complete autonomy over every stage of development, they can explore ideas, experiment with technologies, and modernise traditional methods within their 21st-century cruiser.
What are the key features of the boat you are building?
SailZero is about the creation, storage and utilisation of energy in the most efficient and safe manner possible. From motors to sail design the SailZero project is unusual, a breath of true innovation and optimisation made possible by partnering with some of the most innovative minds in sailing. It will incorporate a range of environmentally friendly materials, including foam cores, honeycomb panels, and biobased epoxies from Entropy Resins®. These materials, combined with advanced insulation, will result in a high performance boat that minimises its environmental impact.
The project is essentially old world meets new, combining traditional metalwork with composite techniques. Including vacuum bagging and hand layup processes with biobased resins and sustainable fibres like flax and basalt. The result of this will be a lightweight yet incredibly strong vessel.
The interior will be designed with both comfort and efficiency in mind. The reduced weight from the light materials involved will significantly improve the boat’s handling and performance, especially in challenging still water conditions.
To further enhance sustainability, the project will incorporate performance-driven sails made from recyclable materials. The rig will be optimised for low-wind conditions, guaranteeing consistent energy generation.
What materials/tools do you use in your projects and why?
Their journey, from humble beginnings to industrial might, has come full circle, returning to a simpler, more portable approach.
“Currently, we’re working on our boat-inspired van, The Roadboat, where we’ll live and work throughout the SailZero Project. Most of our tools are basic, but we’ve mastered our techniques and can produce professional results in this limited environment. With just a small generator for power, it’s a bit of a throwback for Chris to his days shaping surfboards and fins at his dad’s house, where he first discovered Entropy Resins Epoxy.”
Have there been any unexpected challenges during boat construction/repair, if so, how do you overcome them?
The primary challenges encountered by the team are climate based. Their Scottish location exposes them to frequent cold, damp conditions, interspersed with unpredictable warmer periods. In such circumstances, rapid-cure epoxy has proven invaluable, and the five-minute epoxy is particularly advantageous.
What sets you apart from other marine projects? How do you envision the future of sustainable sailing, and what role does SailZero play in it?
While sailing often paints a picture of serene eco-friendliness, the reality is a bit more complicated. Diesel engines are a clear culprit, but recent studies like the ICOMIA report have put lithium batteries under the microscope. For many sailors, the occasional motor use might not justify the environmental toll of lithium mining.
Enter the SailZero Project. They’re on a mission to understand the true environmental impact of cruising and to find greener solutions for boats. By doing so, they hope to safeguard both sailing and the precious marine world.
What advice would you give to other innovators looking to start similar sustainable projects?
“Boat shows are a great opportunity to learn about new materials etc. Especially bigger shows like Boot Dusseldorf that have a whole hall dedicated to construction! Here you can source modern, innovative materials, discuss your project with professionals and even meet likeminded people in the process.”
What are the next steps for SailZero once the sailboat is completed?
The SailZero Project envisions a future where sailing is synonymous with sustainability. By designing and building a yacht solely on renewable energy sources, the project strives to inspire a new era of environmentally conscious boating. The project’s continuous exploration of innovative solutions ensures that it remains at the edge of marine technology.
“Fancy knowing more or getting involved?
To dive deeper, get involved or show your support, head over to our website at www.sailhub.com/sail-zero-project. Don’t miss the latest episodes on YouTube at https://www.sail-hub.com/ and if you’re feeling inspired, help us fuel the adventure through Patreon at Sail Hub | The SailZero Project | Patreon
Join us as we sail toward a more sustainable future—together!”
