Marine plywood to BS 1088 2003 is manufactured using timbers having a durability rating of Class 3 (moderately durable) or better in accordance with EN 350-2. Exceptionally, low density species such as gaboon, with a durability rating of Class 4 (slightly durable) or better may also be used. In both cases, high quality veneers are used and must be bonded using either a phenolic resin or a melamine-formaldehyde (amino) resin to meet bonding Class 3 (exterior)of EN 314. Marine plywood is available from Israel, France, Malaysia Singapore, and other sources.
Marine plywood was developed for ship/boat building and can have a very high performance under severe exposure conditions. It is also commonly specified for use in construction applications where durability performance is required or where the cost of replacement or consequences of failure warrant the additional cost. In such circumstances in addition to meeting the requirements of BS 1088 2003 the Marine Plywood Manufacturer must also demonstrate compliance with the Construction Products Directive , e.g. by complying with EN 13986. Where such Construction applications are Structural the Manufacturer must also provide Structural performance data for the Plywood.