ENDURA: Exploring Biocomposite Materials for Lower-Carbon USV Construction
HydroSurv has kicked-off with Project ENDURA, a feasibility study co-funded by Innovate UK under the Resource Efficiency for Resilience and Sustainability programme, focused on reducing the embodied carbon of our vessel platforms.
Decarbonisation is central to our vessel development strategy. Our USVs are engineered for low and zero emission operations, displacing carbon intensive conventional vessels across hydrographic and environmental survey, and subsea inspection roles. However, operational efficiency alone does not fully define environmental impact – the structural materials used in vessel construction also contribute significantly to lifecycle carbon footprint, making the reduction of embodied carbon an important area of focus.
ENDURA investigates the potential use of biocomposite materials as a future alternative to aluminium within our Rapid Environmental Assessment Vessel (REAV) platform range. Unlike conventional composite systems, which typically rely on glass fibres and petroleum derived resins, biocomposites incorporate natural reinforcements such as flax, hemp and other plant-based fibres combined with bio-based resin systems. These materials offer the potential for lower lifecycle carbon impact and may contribute to carbon sequestration benefits.
Running from February through to the end of March, the project combines desk study and lab-based validation activities. In addition to evaluation of commercially-ready material solutions, HydroSurv will manufacture test panels that will undergo destructive testing to evaluate structural performance and suitability for marine environments. The outcomes of the study will support future decisions on material selection and vessel design strategies.
ENDURA represents an early but important step in our commitment to next-generation materials that support more sustainable uncrewed vessel designs in the future.
