Revolutionary Composite Solution Combines High Performance with Reduced Environmental Impact
Sicomin, a leading formulator and supplier of high-performance epoxy resin systems, is proud to announce its role in the development of Melker of Sweden’s latest sea kayak series, the Melker Värmdö. Leveraging Sicomin’s advanced GreenPoxy® bio-based resin systems, the project sets a new benchmark for sustainable, high-performance watersports equipment.
Download full Case Study here
The collaboration between Sicomin and Melker has resulted in a next-generation composite laminate, combining renewable materials with industry-leading mechanical performance and aesthetics. Central to this innovation is Sicomin’s GreenPoxy InfuGreen 810 infusion resin and Green Coat transparent gelcoat, both incorporating significant bio-carbon content.
-
Sustainable Innovation with Advanced Materials
The Melker Värmdö kayak is manufactured using a closed-mould vacuum infusion process, optimized to deliver lightweight strength, superior durability, and an impeccable surface finish directly from the mould—eliminating the need for secondary painting or clear coating. Key materials featured in the kayak include:
• Sicomin InfuGreen 810 Resin: DNV GL-certified with38% bio-carbon content, offering ultra-low viscosity for efficient room-temperature infusion.
• Sicomin Green Coat Transparent Gelcoat: A robust, UV-resistant coating with 50% plant-based content that protects and enhances the natural look of the kayak’s flax and cork laminates.
• Bcomp ampliTex™ Flax Fabrics: Renewable natural fiber reinforcements that deliver exceptional mechanical properties and visual appeal.
• Amorim NL20 Cork Core: A 100% cork core providing lightweight strength and excellent impact resistance.
“The Värmdö kayak is proof that high-performance composite products can be developed with a significantly reduced environmental impact—without compromising on strength, durability, or aesthetics.”
-
High Performance Meets Low Environmental Impact
The Värmdö’s bio-based construction significantly reduces reliance on petroleum-based materials, minimizing the kayak’s carbon footprint without compromising performance. Flax fibers and cork cores enhance mechanical strength, flexibility, and impact resistance, extending the product’s lifetime while offering an ultra-lightweight structure for exceptional maneuverability and easy transportation.
The transparent Green Coat gelcoat further enhances the natural aesthetic of the flax and cork laminates, creating a premium, eco-friendly finish that requires no secondary coatings.
-
Industry Recognition and Commercial Success
Following more than three years of material development and prototype testing, supported by recyclable 3D-printed test models, Melker finalized design and R&D of the Värmdö series in Sweden with serial production now secured in Sri Lanka. The project has been widely recognized, securing prestigious awards including Best Sea Kayak at both the North American and European paddlesports industry awards.
-
A Proven Model for Sustainable Sporting Goods
“This collaboration with Melker perfectly demonstrates how our GreenPoxy® systems can deliver both technical excellence and meaningful sustainability in series production,” said Philippe Marcovich, President of Sicomin.
“The Värmdö kayak is proof that high-performance composite products can be developed with a significantly reduced environmental impact—without compromising on strength, durability, or aesthetics.”
-