Expanded polystyrene question

Discussion in 'Materials' started by Carlazzomark, Jun 3, 2007.

  1. Carlazzomark
    Joined: Oct 2006
    Posts: 105
    Likes: 13, Points: 18, Legacy Rep: 16
    Location: Michigan

    Carlazzomark Senior Member

    I have an old Hobie Mono Cat sailboat, which has an ABS hull filled with expanded polystyrene flotation foam. The foam has trapped/absorbed water and the hull weighs at least twice what it should.

    Is there any way to dry out the foam? The two hulls do have voids in them.


    Thanks.
     
  2. marshmat
    Joined: Apr 2005
    Posts: 4,127
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    Location: Ontario

    marshmat Senior Member

    I have seen cases where a foam-filled boat, left with hatches and drains open in the sun for several weeks to several months, dries out to the point where it's more or less back to normal. But the mould and the cell damage in the foam will remain (if it's wet, it IS mouldy) and you'll get the exact same problem in a couple of seasons. The only 100% sure fix is to dig out the damaged foam and replace it.
     
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