Reconciling recycling and ocean racing?
Introduced in the 1980s, foils have become a standard feature of ocean racing. However, their environmental impact is questionable: current materials, often based on thermosetting composites, are little or non-recyclable. The project Foil Infinity avel Robotics, Compositic and Mer concept, aims to change the game by using recyclable thermoplastics. These materials promise to extend the life of foils while reducing their carbon footprint by 30%.
Promising thermoplastic materials
Thermoplastics offer a number of advantages. Unlike thermosets, they can be recycled and reused, considerably reducing waste. Adrien Marchandise, co-founder of Avel Robotics, explains: " Foil materials can last up to 50 years, but in the best case, the profile is often replaced after just five years. "
Full-scale tests on the Minilab
To validate technical feasibility, a small (2.50-meter) wing made from 95% recycled materials has been undergoing testing since 2023 aboard the Minilab laboratory boat. This collaborative project involves several partners, including IRMA and Victrex. After a year of research, the results are promising. The next step is to industrialize the production of hydrofoils on a large scale, with the ambitious goal of equipping Ultim and IMOCA trimarans by 2030.
Regional funding
With a budget in excess of 1 million euros, half of which is financed by the Brittany Region, Foil Infinity illustrates the local commitment to sustainable innovation. What's more, the project's ambitions extend beyond yachting. The lessons learned from this research could also benefit the aeronautical sector, where thermoplastics could become the standard by 2030-2035. Avel Robotics, which already works with the likes of Airbus and Ariane Group, is banking on this cross-disciplinary approach to strengthen its position in both industries.
