NEW PROVIDENCE, N.J. — Axion International Holdings announced the completion of the first of two railroad bridges at Fort Eustis, Va., constructed from recycled plastic.
The bridges, designed by Parsons Brinckerhoff, utilize Axion’s patented Recycled Structural Composite (RSC), a thermoplastic solution consisting of nearly 100 percent recycled post-consumer and industrial plastic. Initial field test results confirm design criteria requirements, the company said.
The new short span bridges extend approximately 40 and 80 feet, respectively. Both bridges are designed to deliver a high-load rating of 130 tons, which is necessary in order to transport locomotives and freight.
“This represents another truly historic event for both structural engineers and environmentally conscious individuals across the nation,” said James Kerstein, Chief Executive Officer. “Not only is this bridge able to support the weight of a 120 ton locomotive, but it was also less expensive to build than one using steel, concrete or wood. Axion’s RSC solutions are designed in a manner that are nearly maintenance-free and eco-friendly.
“The combined sales, engineering, technology and construction effort can serve as a model for future projects,” Kerstein added. “It is truly significant that our team’s contributions allowed Axion to deliver these railroad bridge solutions without the need to manufacture or fabricate any new components. Our success at Ft. Bragg was used as the foundation for this newest achievement.”
