STAGE 2 - CIRCLE SURF PROJECT DEVELOPMENT

During the second half of 2023, the focus is on optimising the industrial process and validating the parts at pilot scale.

The first trials with the final mould highlight the need to apply a Teflon coating, due to excessive adhesion to the aluminium of its construction. Following the introduction of this solution, tests with FP855 resin show improvements in terms of compaction, surface homogeneity and impact resistance.

Between September and December, six industrial tests were conducted, varying the density, weight and distribution of the mass within the mould. The results obtained indicate that the use of XPS inserts reduces weight but introduces thermal deformations that compromise the stability of the parts.

The introduction of a blowing agent is also tested, allowing the part’s mass to be reduced, although with changes in colour and texture that impose limitations on its application.

The tests carried out point to a density range between 500 and 550 g/dm³, with around 15% resin, and to the K566 formulation as a solution with elastic behaviour and tactile response closer to that required for application in surfboards.

By the end of 2023, the project had shown consistent progress in terms of the strength and flexibility of the components, meeting the conditions to continue testing in 2024.