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The power of recycled HDPE material

Strength Analysis of Recycled HDPE in Boat Construction with Comparative Insights

The growing interest in sustainable materials for maritime applications has led to significant exploration of recycled High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) for boat construction. This blog post is based on a detailed study described in the research paper titled “Study on the strength of a fishing boat made from plastic recycles” by Noverdo Saputra et al., which explores the mechanical properties of recycled HDPE in depth. Here, we delve into the specific mechanical properties of recycled HDPE, emphasizing its tensile, bending, and impact strengths based on comprehensive testing and analysis.

Mechanical Strength of Recycled HDPE

1. Tensile Strength:

Tensile strength tests are pivotal for understanding a material’s capacity to resist tension before failure. In the recent study, recycled HDPE, when mixed with 10% resin, showed a peak tensile strength of 22,774 MPa (as found in test specimens 4a-4d), which highlights its suitability for structural applications in marine environments where high loads are common. The study illustrates a clear correlation between increased resin content and enhanced tensile strength, suggesting that adjusting the resin ratio allows for optimization of the material to meet specific engineering requirements.

Fig. 1 Tensile Test of Recycle HDPE

Fig. 2 Tensile Stress of HDPE Recycle

2. Bending Strength:

Bending strength is another critical property, especially for materials used in dynamic load-bearing applications like boat hulls. The same recycled HDPE mixture achieved a bending strength of 31.56 MPa, indicating robust resistance to deformation under stress. Such capability is essential for the boat’s structural components that face continuous stress from waves, operational loads, and potential impacts. This strength ensures that the boat maintains its integrity without permanent bending or deformation, crucial for long-term durability and safety at sea.

Fig. 3 Bending Test of HDPE Recycle

Fig. 4 Bending Stress of HDPE Recycle

3. Impact Strength

Impact strength testing measures the material’s ability to withstand sudden forces or shocks. Recycled HDPE with a lower resin content of 2.5% presented the highest impact resistance, with stress values up to 1.6915 MPa. This property is particularly vital for areas of the boat that are prone to impacts, such as the bow and stern. Although the impact strength is less than what might be observed with traditional materials such as fiberglass, it is considered adequate for many sections of the boat where high resistance to sudden shocks is less critical. For areas requiring higher impact resistance, additional material engineering or structural reinforcement might be necessary.

Fig. 5 Impact Test of HDPE Recycle

Fig. 6 Impact Stress of HDPE Recycle

Comparative Insights and Practical Implications

The detailed analysis provided by the study, with specific reference to the ASTM standards for tensile (ASTM D368), bending (ASTM D790), and impact (ASTM D256) tests, underscores the potential of recycled HDPE in marine applications. By selecting appropriate resin mixtures, engineers can tailor the mechanical properties of HDPE to meet diverse design and operational criteria.

For example, the construction of a 3 Gross Tonnage (GT) fishing vessel, as modeled in the study, demonstrates the practical application of these findings. The chosen HDPE mix, consisting of 90% recycled HDPE and 10% resin (Yukalac 157), allowed for a hull design with a minimum thickness of 10 mm. This composition not only optimizes the balance between strength and material efficiency but also ensures safety and performance while supporting environmental sustainability. According to the study’s comparative analysis of figures 1, 3, and 5,  with a 20% safety margin, this specific blend is recommended for the main structural components of the vessel. Additionally, for areas such as the designed fender and forepeak, the use of pure recycled HDPE (100% HDPE recycle) is advised to maximize the durability and impact resistance in less critical but still vulnerable sections of the boat.

This strategic use of different HDPE blends in various parts of the boat allows for an intelligent approach to material application, ensuring that each component is optimally designed to withstand the specific conditions it will face. This method enhances the overall structural integrity and functionality of the vessel, illustrating a sophisticated application of recycled materials in maritime engineering.

Fig. 7 Modelling hull and structure of fishing boat

Fig. 8 Strain with 3 GT Payload

Conclusion:

Recycled HDPE represents a strong, adaptable, and eco-friendly option for boat construction, capable of meeting the stringent demands of maritime operations. Its ability to be engineered to specific requirements makes it an appealing choice for the marine industry, pushing forward the agenda of sustainable manufacturing practices. The insights provided by this study help pave the way for broader acceptance and application of recycled HDPE in high-performance maritime projects, marrying environmental responsibility with engineering excellence. This commitment to environmental responsibility and engineering excellence is at the core of what we do at Legacy HDPE Boats. By adopting recycled HDPE, we contribute to broader acceptance and application of this material in high-performance maritime projects, ensuring that our boats are as sustainable as they are robust. Contact us: 307-299-3049

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Chuck
Chuck
Legacy is the only company that harvests abandon HDPE pipe line and recycle it into environmentally friendly vessels, that fact is important to me, my company and our customers, and recycling should be important to all of us that work on the water.”
Chad Marquardt
Chad Marquardt
“I'm very impressed with your craftsmanship and how clean everything turned out! I've got a 4 year old Bradford bed that is already rusting out , having a hdpe bed is inferior to anything else!! No rust, no paint! My favorite is the dog box , you have the structural integrity to be abused, but lightweight and very clean! Lightweight and skid along snow/ice easily!
Wainright
Wainright
The difference for us is the in-house engineering staff. We needed a platform that was mission specific and did not exist prior to working with Legacy.
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