Sep 30 2009
Paper by Rutgers University and U.S. Army Corp Describes Benefits of the Innovative Technology Used by Axion for 100% Recycled Plastic Bridges
Axion International Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB:AXIH), a next-generation technology innovator utilizing recycled plastic for high load industrial products, today announces the release of a research paper regarding high-load thermoplastic bridges by Rutgers University, School of Engineering and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Entitled "Thermoplastic Composites as Degradation-Resistant Material Systems for Timber Bridge Designs", the research paper details the evolution of thermoplastic load-bearing vehicular bridges from the first structure in 1998, to the most recent bridges at Fort Bragg, which are the first known recycled plastic structures of their kind capable of supporting over 70 tons.
The comprehensive paper describes the evolution of these materials, their durability, and the design factors that make these materials attractive sustainable alternatives to chemically treated-wood. All of the bridges detailed in the paper were created using technology developed in conjunction with Rutgers University and licensed by Axion International.
From the research paper, "Thermoplastic composite lumber materials are resistant to moisture, rot, insects, and degradation that occurs with natural wood when exposed to the outdoor environment, chemically treated or not."
"Not only can these bridges be cost competitive on a first-cost basis but are clear winners on a lifecycle basis considering the low-maintenance requirements of these materials. The innovative thermoplastic composite I-beam bridge at Fort Bragg shows that this design and materials should be considered for replacement of the thousands of wood timber bridges that exist on Army Installations and Federal and State Parks and Forests throughout the U.S."
Axion International's cutting edge technology, which was developed in conjunction with scientists at Rutgers University, has resulted in 100% recycled plastic materials that are the first known structural products of their kind that can support heavy loads. These structural building materials can be utilized in a number of industrial applications, including bridge infrastructure.
"This research paper is an excellent resource for anyone interested in the background and cost-saving characteristics of our high-load thermoplastic technology," remarks James Kerstein, Chief Executive Officer of Axion International. "Whether read by engineers, investors, or environmentally conscious individuals, anyone should be able to appreciate the superior load bearing capacity, the significant cost savings, and the incredibly positive impact on the environment these bridges can make compared with chemically treated wood."
Mr. Kerstein added, "We believe the timing of our technology is ideal, with infrastructure and the environment becoming critical concerns for industry as well as local, state and federal governments."
Utilizing virtually 100% recycled plastics, Axion's structural products have the distinct advantage of not only being environmentally friendly, but also providing its clients with building materials of superior quality and life expectancy. Current structural applications include: railroad crossties, bridge infrastructure, marine pilings and bulk heading. Developed in conjunction with scientists at Rutgers University, Axion's patented process transforms recycled consumer and industrial plastics into a myriad of structural products that are ideal replacements for last-generation materials, such as wood, steel or concrete.
Source: http://www.axionintl.com/