the reinforcing fibres, the weaves they are applied in and the method of lamination, a wide range of properties can be built into the shell plating.

It is hard to keep up with this fast-changing technology. Fortunately we have in SP Systems a supplier who specialises in sophisticated materials for yacht construction. Their consultancy service helps the designer take maximum advantage of the possibilities. Typical of the attention to detail is their ability to analyse by spectroscope small samples of resin taken from the finished hull. This will tell whether a full polymerisation has taken place in the resin, and if not what post cure heat treatment would be necessary to ensure that it does. At the same time any impurities which may inadvertently have been introduced during building can be identified. So far we have never had a problem in this respect, but it is always nice to be able to assure clients that all is well.