High Capacity Thermoplastic Composite Bridge

Published Dec. 3, 2012

Thermoplastic composite, known as “plastic lumber”, may not be a new concept, but engineers at the ERDC Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL) have found new innovative ways to utilize it for high-capacity load structures, like bridges, large decks, docks, seawalls, wharves and railroad bridges.

These materials do not contain any wood material and are inherently resistant to rot, insects, bacteria and rodents without the need for chemical treatments. Thermoplastic composite rarely cracks or splinters, is weather- and graffiti-resistant, provides great shock-absorption and requires no waterproofing, staining or regular maintenance,

It is also eco-friendly and lasts twice as long as normal lumber. The use of thermoplastic composite to build high-capacity load structures results in larger amounts of plastics removed from landfills and fewer trees cut for lumber.

ERDC Points of Contact
Questions about High Capacity Thermoplastic Composite Bridge?
Contact: Richard Lampo
Email: Richard.G.Lampo@usace.army.mil
Phone: 217-373-6575




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