Oct 22 2009
Research Paper Describes Benefits of Thermoplastic Technology to Assist in Curtailing Corrosion Costs for Department of Defense
Axion International Holdings, Inc. (OTCBB: AXIH) today announces the release of a research paper regarding the corrosion resistant properties of high-load thermoplastic materials, written by Thomas J. Nosker, Ph.D. at Rutgers University, School of Engineering and Lisa Miles Jackson of Innovative Green Solutions.
Entitled "Technology, Applicability, and Future of Thermoplastic Timber", the research paper details the innovative thermoplastic technology developed by scientists at Rutgers University and licensed by Axion International. The patented technologies have resulted in structural solutions such as bridges and railroad ties that are made from 100% recycled plastic, which are not only extremely strong and flexible in design, but virtually maintenance-free.
The paper maintains that these high-load thermoplastic materials provide a safe choice to comply with recently enacted Federal laws, regulations and DoD Green procurement policies and are an ideal solution in the fight against corrosion. In fact, the thermoplastic structures in question can last more than 50 years with little or no maintenance. The research paper was presented at the US Department of Defense Corrosion Conference 2009, in Washington, DC, August 10 to 14.
From the research paper: "Corrosion costs the DoD over 22 billion dollars per year while the cost to the U.S. taxpayer is closer to $300 billion. Building with materials that are going to rot and corrode is a classic case of efighting a losing battle."
The paper goes on to say: "DoD is interested in recycled plastic as a possible replacement for wood timbers because deteriorated timber bridges are very costly to repair. More often than not, repairs can exceed the cost of replacement. Moreover, the DoD's maintenance and repair budget is not always adequate to renovate deteriorating bridges. And, if the same materials are used, the degradation cycle associated with wood material begins again. The DoD is interested in recycled plastic as a possible replacement for wood timbers at all of its military installations."
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/