Reinforce Composite for Ice?

[hpeer]

We are looking at a composite construction catamaran. She is constructed of 1/4 ply covered by West Systems epoxy and glass. Only one or two layers at most. We live in Philadelphia and are concerned about ice. The Delaware is fresh in Philly and we can get significant ice here, not every year but it happens. I am concerned that if we left her in over the winter the ice would be a problem.

First I would appreciate reflections on that statement. Am I being overly cautious?

If not then is it possible to reinforce the hull sufficiently without adding excessive weight? I thought of kevlar but it seems that does nothing in compression. Are there other materials or methods that may work?

Many thanks,

Howard

[barnakiel]

SS plating perhaps.

Dry the boat for the winter. Even steel and alloy boast can get badly dented by ice. Do not try this trick with any other materials, unless the hull form has been designed to be lifted rather than crunched by the forces.

b.