10144858Non-metallic reinforcement and low carbon binders in modular precast concrete rail station platform systemsClosedSmall Business Research InitiativeInnovate UKOur project will explore the redesign of a modular precast concrete rail platform system, (including the support structure above foundation, slab, and coping stone). We aim to meet the needs of a low-carbon future by investigating the use of non-metallic reinforcement and alternative binders, aligning with Theme 14 'Sustainable solutions for construction materials'. The key technical challenge to be addressed is how to replace steel reinforcement with a combination of non-corroding Basalt Fibre Reinforced Polymer (BFRP) rebar and/or dispersed reinforcement in a form of BFRP macro fibres, in the most efficient way. Carbon reductions will be achieved through the following measures: * Complete substitution of steel reinforcement * Full replacement of traditional Portland cement * Concrete volume reduction via leaner design * Reduced dead load leading to smaller foundations * Lower weight of transported elements * Prolonged service life * Lower production energy demand and faster production times when switching from reinforcing cages to distributed reinforcement (i.e. fibres). The project will deliver conceptual designs based on Portland Cement and low-carbon concrete, including a comparative Environmental Impact Assessment to demonstrate the carbon savings and identify areas to make the biggest impact. A test plan will be designed for a future demonstrator to assess the performance of the proposed rail platform system in the short and long term, which will be reflected in the whole life cost assessment to demonstrate the environmental and commercial merit of the project. Our project plan is broken down into 6 Milestones as follows: * M1: Market Analysis * M2: Concept design for performance & durability * M3: Sustainability Improvements * M4: Design of the test plan for future demonstrator * M5: Reporting & Next Steps * M6: PM/Governance Deploying this innovation will help increase product lifespan which reduces the replacement frequency, improves the whole life carbon and also extends the period between track shut-downs and minimises passenger disruption. The **National Composites Centre** (NCC) is the UK's leading centre of excellence and innovator in composites technology. NCC are partnering with **FP McCann** **Ltd**, a UK-based construction materials manufacturer and civil engineering company whose core business is manufacturing and supplying precast concrete products. NCC and FP McCann are currently involved in a DESNZ-funded project that is making progress in decarbonising the production of drainage pipes and headwalls using non-metallic basalt FRP macro fibres in place of steel through design, production, testing, validation and LCA assessment. We are keen to apply our learnings to new applications in the rail industry.