Beams from the A9 are repurposed in a bridge on the N201.
Iris Lommerse, innovation advisor at Rijkswaterstaat, explains that this is the first time beams are reused on this scale and sent to a project outside Rijkswaterstaat.
Widening A9
The A9 is being widened to 4 lanes per direction. Near Amstelveen, the road is being deepened. Together with VeenIX, beams were removed and reused.
Frans Noordberger, Sustainability Program Manager, states it is logical to utilize the long lifespan of beams. This project shows that governments and markets can work together towards a circular economy.
Major benefits of reuse
The project aids in standardizing the reuse of concrete elements. Reusing beams requires more collaboration than traditional methods.
There are major benefits: reduced CO2 emissions and material savings. CO2 savings can reach up to 97% compared to new beams.
It requires close cooperation from clients to contractors. This promotes innovation and efficiency.
Scaling up makes the process more efficient
Wouter van der Berg of Groene Liggers V.O.F. sees benefits for the market. Less heavy machinery is needed and with more experience, risks can be reduced. Reusable beams could become a better option than new ones.
The project with reused beams from the A9 is just the beginning. Other governments are also working on circular use of infrastructure.
Recently, beams were delivered to Haaksbergen for the Vloedstegenbrug. Also, 30 beams were placed at the Bridge Bank. This helps in learning to scale up reuse. Interest is growing.
This also applies to sheet piles, guardrails, asphalt, and traffic signs. The infrastructure sector is moving towards a circular future with optimal material reuse.