On May 10, Axion International Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB: AXIH), announced the completion of the first of two railroad bridges constructed from recycled plastic at Fort Eustis, Virginia. The bridges, which were designed by Parsons Brinckerhoff, employ Axion's patented Recycled Structural Composite ("RSC"), a thermoplastic solution consisting of nearly 100% recycled post-consumer and industrial plastic. The company said initial field test results confirm design criteria requirements.
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 (i.e. 260,000 pounds).
"This represents another truly historic event for both structural engineers and environmentally conscious individuals across the nation," said James Kerstein, Axion's CEO. "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 design and engineering work was supported by Virginia-based Centennial Contractors Enterprises, Inc., the prime job order contractor for the project, and Parsons Brinckerhoff. The demolition and construction activities are being performed by English Construction Company, Inc. Innovative Green Solutions, an Axion channel partner, introduced Axion to the Fort Eustis project and participated in the negotiation and development of the project.
"Axion's collaboration with Parsons Brinckerhoff, Rutgers, Centennial Contractors Enterprises, English Construction and Innovative Green Solutions was an important milestone for us," Kerstein continued. " The combined sales, engineering, technology and construction effort can serve as a model for future projects. 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."
Fort Eustis is home to the U.S. Army Transportation Corps, which is the branch of the U.S. Army responsible for the movement of personnel and material by truck, rail, air and sea. Officers and enlisted soldiers at Fort Eustis receive education and on-the-job training in all modes of transportation, aviation maintenance, logistics and deployment doctrine and research.