We are thrilled to announce that Astondoa Shipyards has joined the TEcoNaut project as a partner.
They marked their partnership by organizing our third skills shadowing workshop.
The program specifically examined and practically evaluated the performance and sustainability advantages of bio-based thermoset resins, the processing characteristics of thermoplastic resins, the process differences between thermoset and thermoplastic systems, the effects of material combinations in vacuum infusion techniques, and the comparative analysis of PET core, balsa, and natural fiber reinforced systems. The two-day program included both theoretical presentations and live resin infusion demonstrations.
The contributions and technical presentations of educators from Portugal and Italy strengthened international knowledge sharing and broadened our professional perspective.
The field visit to the ASTONDOA production facilities provided an opportunity to observe the applicability of sustainable composites on an industrial scale. This experience allowed us to evaluate the transition process to green materials in sustainable boat production more clearly and on a technical basis.
The first session began with a Sustainable Composite Presentation covering the following topics:
● Bio-based thermoset resins: properties, performance, and sustainability benefits
● Thermoplastic resins: characteristics and processing differences
● Comparison with traditional thermoset systems
● Sustainable reinforcement materials: recycled carbon fiber, natural fibers (flax)
● Core materials overview: PET core, balsa, cork, rcyAtlasHPE
Understanding materials is essential, but practical application is equally important. Therefore, training on Infusion Techniques and Process Setup is required:
● Vacuum infusion fundamentals and best practices
● Thermoset vs thermoplastic infusion: key differences and considerations
● Process optimisation for different material combinations
● Common challenges and troubleshooting techniques
● Industrial production considerations and scalability
● Q&A sesión
After lunch, we toured Astondoa’s facilities. The guided visit provided an overview of current yacht manufacturing processes, allowed us to observe composite manufacturing in an operational setting, and included a Q&A session with the Astondoa production team.
In summary, the first session, with contributions from Amorim Cork Solutions/Navicork (Udo Kleinitz) and nlcomp (Fabio Bignolini), covered the use of cork in boat building, thermoplastic resins, and natural, low-impact fibers.
On the second day at Astondoa, we began with a review of the previous day’s work, including a detailed inspection of the cured panels.
Following the review, we conducted a live Resin Infusion Demonstration, which included:
● Advanced infusion techniques for complex geometries.
● Comparison of different core materials during infusion.
● Hands-on participation: participants assisted with the infusion process.
After the demonstration, we proceeded to Panel Analysis and Evaluation, which included:
● Visual inspection of all infused panels
● Quality assessment: fiber wet-out, void content, surface finish
● Comparison between different material systems
● Discussion of results and industrial implications
● Best practices for each material combination
In the final session, we integrated all topics and addressed the following:
● Open discussion on implementation strategies
● Addressing specific participant questions
● Recommendations for transitioning to sustainable materials
● Follow-up resources and support
● Training certificates and closing remarks
The Skills Shadowing Workshop concluded successfully. VET teachers had the opportunity to discuss and evaluate their experiences directly in the field of sustainable composite technologies.
The program examined and evaluated the performance and sustainability of bio-based thermoset resins, processing characteristics of thermoplastic resins, differences between thermoset and thermoplastic systems, effects of material combinations in vacuum infusion, and comparative analysis of PET core, balsa, and natural fiber reinforced systems. The two-day agenda included both theoretical presentations and live resin infusion demonstrations.
Contributions and technical presentations from educators in Portugal and Italy enhanced international knowledge sharing and broadened our professional perspective.
The visit to the ASTONDOA production facilities offered insight into the industrial application of sustainable composites. This experience enabled a clearer, technical evaluation of the transition to green materials in boat production.
