In a message dated 4/23/2010 12:33:08 P.M. Pacific Daylight Time,
Recon1st@aol.com writes:
Hi Dean. I have no experience with syntactic foam but here's a couple
thoughts.
I don't think the spheres themselves can withstand super amounts of
pressure.
When they are put into a matrix with the epoxy the strength goes way up.
If they were loose and moving around they might rub enough to weaken them
over time.
The accepted method for varying ballast is.........the variable ballast
tank.
Maybe you could get some used scuba tanks and adapt them to the purpose.
Strap them on outside and add HP lines to them for control.
Cliff is the guy with the most personal experience. Remember
his dissertation on the foam up in Vancouver ?
He had some specific charts about what size to use, the right mix of
chemicals, how much buoyancy and stuff. Maybe he can step in here. I think I saw
where he was pretty busy right now on a job or something but I bet if you ask
him he could send some of that info to you.
Frank D.
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