Synthetic Energy Absorbing Composite for Improved Track Performance

Funding: 2020: $59,156
2021: $8,683
2020: $42,537

Project Member(s): Indraratna, B., Rujikiatkamjorn, C.

Funding or Partner Organisation: Australian Research Council (ARC Discovery Projects)
Australian Research Council (ARC Discovery Projects)

Start year: 2020

Summary: This project aims to study the performance of a novel Synthetic Energy Absorbing Composite (SEAC) placed beneath the ballast to minimise degradation. The use of coal wash and steel slag blended with shredded recycled rubber as SEAC constituents is environmentally beneficial. The role of SEAC with respect to impact and cyclic loads will be assessed through extensive geotechnical laboratory and numerical analysis. The research outcomes based on the proposed energy considerations will lead to improved track design and analysis in view of stability, safety and operational efficiency.

FOR Codes: Civil Geotechnical Engineering, Rail Infrastructure and Networks, Civil Construction Design, Civil geotechnical engineering , Heavy rail infrastructure and networks, Urban rail infrastructure and networks (incl. light and metro rail)

Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.