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Early History of Composites

Early History of Composites

  • 1946: Pete Peterson creates the first hollow glass fibre composite board reinforced with a wood stringer
  • 1947: First polyurethane foam-core boards developed by Joe Quigg and Bob Simmons and first GFRP fin. (fig.1)
  • 1967: “Shortboard revolution” and transition from wood and glass fibre composites to all-glass fibre composite and hard plastic fins
  • 1981: Development of the today prevalent 3-fin design by Simon Anderson.
  • 2000s: Epoxy resins, glass fibre composites and expanded polystyrene foam cores emerge as popular material choices

Recent Developments

Recent Developments

  • Introduction of carbon fibre composites in surfboard manufacturing, utilized in fins, stringers, and as top and bottom layers
  • Development of diverse surfboard designs and material combinations: (fig.2)
    • Various core materials
    • Stringer-less surfboards
    • Different composite layups for enhanced performance
    • Strategic placement of fibre-reinforced tapes on the board
  • Fins are crafted with diverse materials and shapes to optimize performance in varying wave conditions. (fig.3)
  • The rise of eco-friendly alternatives, incorporating bio-resins, natural fibres, recycled foams, and reclaimed wood (fig.4)

Gallery

Gallery

First polyurethane foam-core boards developed by Joe Quigg and Bob Simmons and first GFRP fin
1. First polyurethane foam-core boards developed by Joe Quigg and Bob Simmons and first GFRP fin

 

Development of diverse surfboard designs and material combinations
2. Development of diverse surfboard designs and material combinations

 

Development of diverse surfboard designs and material combinations
3. Fins are crafted with diverse materials and shapes to optimize performance
in varying wave conditions

 

The rise of eco-friendly alternatives, incorporating bio-resins, natural fibres, recycled foams, and reclaimed wood
4. The rise of eco-friendly alternatives, incorporating bio-resins, natural fibres, recycled foams, and reclaimed wood

 

 

On the road to Olympic and Paralympic Games

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