This is an archived message posted to the Kayak Building Bulletin Board. If you would like to ask a question about building kayaks, you can post a new message.
> Hi,
> I am playing around with an inexpensive polyester epoxy (Bondo). I joined
> two plywood pannels using this resin mixed with cabosil (I guess it is a
> powder made of fibers). I joined them using the S&G technique. I also
> saturated few pieces of plywood. The result is every thing looked very
> strong. I know many people don't like using polyester because it
> delaminates, absorbs moisture. and it is not as strong as epoxy.
No details about your plywood, your cloth, or your building details. No details about your usage. So many nay-sayers. They might be right.
> Here are my questions: 1) how strong is strong enough?. Is the polyester
> strong enough for kayaks.
Bondo polyester is unsuitable for boat building.
The proper brands (types) of polyesters have none of the problems mentioned (those problems apply to epoxy also) when used and applied properly, but you have little chance of finding the proper polyesters, or using and applying them correctly.
> 2) Are there any data that show that polyester is not suitable for Kayaks.
> I read a few books on boat building and all that I found on polyester are
> general statements whith no backup data. Has anyone tried it?
There is lots of data showing the truth - good or bad. Look for the data where people want to solve the problems not blaim the materials.
This is an archived message from The Kayak Building Bulletin Board.
Guillemot Kayak - High
Performance Wooden Sea Kayak Designs
