In another thread I asked about resin uptake of Balsa when used as a core. I have received various answer that are not answering the question, so let me go at it a different way.

If identical composite parts are made using any available method such as - but not limited to - hand layup, resin infusion, or prepreg, with a core of unsealed balsa and sealed balsa, Which would be the lightest and by how much would the weight difference be?

On another forum, I have received replies that seem to presume that it is common knowledge that resin infusion will weight a LOT MORE than if the parts are made with prepreg. Maybe all the old timers know this to be true and never use resin infusion to make light balsa core products.

But really now.... How much more is a LOT MORE?

Is there any data that will tell me how much heavier one is compared to the other?

For this discussion, please do not confuse the question by bringing up other core materials that you might think are better, lighter, stronger. That discussion will be a separate topic. First I want to know about balsa core.


A Lifelong Learner

I would disagree in some points:
Prepreg and hand layup could be equally light, if you don't aim for a perfect finish. And if there is any resin uptake, you won't get a perfect finish with prepreg either. Infusion will be heavier, even if you completely seal the balsa, because of the resin in the grooves and holes you have to make for the process. The resin uptake will increase the difference further, because the machined infusion ready balsa has more surface than the simple flat balsa.
You won't find any universally valid numbers to that question.