ponton

Ponton is a buoyant structure that provides flotation and typically supports a deck or platform on water. The term, used in several languages, can refer to floating platforms such as docks and walkways, or to pontoon boats that use buoyant hulls to stay afloat. Pontoons are designed to remain buoyant under load and are usually sealed to keep water out; they may be made of plastic, aluminum, steel, or composite materials.

Common applications include floating docks and walkways for harbors and marinas, berthing platforms, and temporary or portable bridges. In military and civilian settings, modular ponton bridges are formed by linking multiple pontoons to span rivers or gaps. Pontoon boats, with two or more buoyant pontoons supporting a flat deck, are used for recreation, transport, and work on inland and coastal waters.

Design and maintenance considerations cover buoyancy, stability, load distribution, environmental exposure, and mooring arrangements. Depending on material, pontoons require corrosion protection for metal constructions, seam integrity for plastic units, and regular inspection of seals or foam cores in hollow systems.

Etymology and usage notes: The term ponton is used in several European languages for floating platforms or boats; the English equivalent is pontoon. Regional varieties and product names may distinguish specific pontoon types or configurations.

See also: Pontoon bridge, Floating dock, Pontoon boat.