Melbourne’s tram network may soon see its platforms made from recycled plastics sourced from kerbside and industrial waste, as part of an initiative led by researchers at Monash Institute of Railway Technology (Monash IRT).
Monash IRT and Yarra Trams have partnered with the likes of PACT group, GT Recycling, DKSH Australia and Integrated Recycling to research, design and develop recycled plastic modular components that can be used for the platforms.
By partnering with key members from the plastics industry, the project aims to develop a circular economy framework covering the full lifecycle of recycled materials from supply to end use.
“Unlike traditional tram stop platforms, this new modular design offers a cost-effective, sustainable and accessible solution,” Monash IRT director Professor Ravitharan says.
“The design of this product offers a more sustainable solution to build new platform stops and encourages local communities to improve segregation of materials for recycling, reducing waste to landfill and supporting local markets for recycled materials.”
Since 2000, Monash IRT has worked with over 170 railway entities globally on more than 700 research projects.
The latest project for Melbourne’s tram network, the largest tram network in the world, was funded under the Circular Economy Research & Development Fund, delivered by Sustainability Victoria under the Victorian Government’s circular economy policy, Recycling Victoria: a new economy.
“By developing next-generation tram stop platforms from recycled materials, we’re rethinking how we use resources – transforming waste into smart, sustainable infrastructure,” Sustainability Victoria CEO Matt Genever says.
In related developments around building sustainable technologies, FM has previously reported researchers at Monash University pioneering a water-based battery that they claim could help store rooftop solar energy “more safely, cheaply and efficiently”.
The compact, high-performance flow batteries are set to offer a more affordable alternative to the $10,000 lithium-ion systems currently powering many homes. The engineers have developed a new membrane design that improves charging speeds, making the technology better suited for households and mid-scale facilities, not just large commercial users.
Read more: Wastewater treatment using nanobubble technology trialled in Victoria
