PS Magazine - TB 43-PS-712
PS, The Preventative Maintenance Monthly
ISSUE 712
MARCH 2012
24
PS 712
MAR 12
Hot, humid environments increase
wood rot and invite insect attacks. And
the heavy loads bridges endure take
a toll. Chemical treatment of wood
reduces rot and insect damage, but
those chemicals are toxic to people
and
the
environment. And
not
all
treatments are equal. In some parts of
the world, locally treated wood is only
slightly better than untreated wood.
(That is, if you can even Fnd local
wood!)
±or critical bridges and other load-
bearing wooden structures, there is an
innovative solution in high-capacity
thermoplastic material and design.
Two
bridges
were
built
recently
at ±t Bragg (and a third is under
construction). The bridges are holding
up to repeated heavy vehicle crossings.
Like familiar plastic lumber you might have seen on playgrounds or in parks, the
new bridge material is resistant to moisture, rot, and insects. And it stands up to very
heavy loads without sagging or bouncing like a trampoline. The best news is the new
material costs less than treated wood for initial construction and annual maintenance
needs are low. It also costs less to ship and improves the Army’s carbon footprint.
The new material and design can be used for all sorts of outdoor, load-bearing
structures. ±or more information on the use of this new degradation-resistant
thermoplastic lumber, contact Mr. Richard Lampo at:
richard.g.lampo@us.army.mil
Tank
vs
Bridge:
Plastic Lumber Saves the Day!
Wooden bridges
are found
everywhere
and
Soldiers use them
to transport
troops and
equipment.
But they
don’t
last
forever!
Yes, recycled
milk jugs and
car bumpers
can now carry
an M1 tank!
your
recycled
plastics
are really
supportive!
and I’ll be
able to do
this for years
to come with
very little
maintenance!
you
betcha!
I’m
new,
I’m
plastic,
I can hold
your weight any day of the week
and twice on sunday!
later…
I don’t think so! I’m still
wet from
last
time I tried
crossing a bridge.
what’s the hold
up? get
moving!
712 24-25.indd
1-2
1/31/12
10:31 AM
Click here for a copy of this article to save or email.
Back to TopBack to Top
