Bastbearing

Bastbearing is a term that sometimes appears in discussions related to historical shipbuilding or traditional crafts, particularly concerning the materials used for structural elements or as protective layers. The term is not widely recognized in mainstream engineering or material science literature.

The "bast" component of the term likely refers to bast fibers, which are strong, flexible fibers derived from the inner bark of certain plants, such as flax, hemp, jute, and linden trees. These fibers have been used for millennia to create ropes, textiles, and other cordage. In a historical context, bast fibers might have been employed in shipbuilding for various purposes, including caulking, lashing, or reinforcing certain components.

The "bearing" part of the term could suggest a structural function where these materials were used to support weight, reduce friction, or act as a protective interface between two surfaces. For example, layered bast materials could have been used as padding or as a less abrasive layer in areas subject to wear or stress. However, specific documented examples of "bastbearing" as a formal construction technique are scarce. Its usage may be more colloquial or specific to niche historical research. Further clarification would likely require examination of the specific historical context in which the term is encountered.