The Mini 6.50 Arkema 3 prototype is considered a floating laboratory for innovations. While the Mini class is regarded as a laboratory for ocean racing, the Mini 6.50 Arkema 3 prototype built by Team Arkema Lalou Multi is indeed the concrete illustration of this.
Focus on Mini Transat La Boulangère 2017
The race started on 1st October. Quentin Vlamynck, skipper of the Mini 6.50 Arkema 3, will set off from La Rochelle to race across the Atlantic, a 4,050 mile course for the young skipper and his “racing beast”. The course is set for Las Palmas in Gran Canaria (Canaries) followed by Le Marin (Martinique).
This unique boat with a novel design emerged from the joint approach of the Arkema Group and the teams of Team Lalou Multi. Inspired by a genuine desire for innovation and performance, both partners designed the Mini 6.50 Arkema 3 as a proper research project.
The hull and bridge of the boat were made entirely from a recyclable thermoplastic composite thanks to Arkema’s Elium resin – a technological feat and a first in shipbuilding. Reduction in the weight and in the environmental footprint are the two major benefits of this technology.
The cockpit portholes and the hood are made of Altuglas ShieldUp. This material, which can withstand extreme marine conditions, is as transparent as glass while being lighter.
Structural adhesives from Bostik (an Arkema subsidiary) were also used for the assembly and full bonding of the sailboat’s components.
The Mini 6.50 Arkema 3 is revolutionary in its construction method and technical innovations. Naval architect Romaric Neyhousser has fitted the boat with a host of novel features never seen before in ocean sailing. In particular, the boat boasts tilting foils. With these two curved appendages placed on either side, the Mini 6.50 can literally “fly” over the water…!
