Hi all
Just picked up a new rib to follow my Laser kids around and have doubts as to the tube material really being Hypalon (Hypalon being a brand name I'm aware). Is there somewhere I could get a small offcut tested to determine which it is...PVC or Hypalon? Is there someone in Sydney with enough knowledge to tell the difference visually?

Cheers
Gos

Would guess that these people would be a good place to ask..........they should be able to visually inspect the sample and conclude or sort testing somewhere?

Gemini Marine (gemini-marine.com.au)

FAQ's - Gemini Marine (gemini-marine.com.au)

Hi Gos,
Could you do your own testing?
Don't quote me on it, but IIRC acetone dissolves PVC and not Hypalon. Use a high concentration of acetone and see what happens?
Cheers!
SB

www.ribstore.co.uk/pages/identify-fabric#:~:text=Hypalon%20material%20is%20a%20dull,both%20sides%20of%20the%20fabric.

Are you sure Hypalon is just a brand? I don't think it's anymore a brand name than PVC is..

In any case, Hypalon has a black backing and PVC is the the same colour either side: as far as testing beyond that, you might find that depending on the brand of rib you purchased, testing might cost more than the purchase price.

Select to expand quote

Toph said..


In any case, Hypalon has a black backing and PVC is the the same colour either side:

Yep that's what I was told

Hi all

Thanks for the replies; have read similar things on the net about the dark backing but can't access the back of the material anywhere. Tried the MEK/acetone test but I feel the results are a little subjective. Have found a lab that can test a small sample so might give that a try.

Would the overlap/join where the tube meets the hull be the same material as the actual tube normally? I can safely cut a small sample off this area.

Cheers for your help

Gos