We aim to work fully circular by 2030 in cooperation with the market. In 2020, we posed a SBIR challenge for practical circular solutions in viaduct construction. Two consortia proposed reusing viaduct beams, successfully validated in feasibility studies.
At Hoog Burel on the A1, beams from a dismantled A7 viaduct in Groningen were reused, involving consortium Beams 2.0. Consortium Closing the Loop is preparing for beam reuse at Daelderweg viaduct on the A76.
Essential Collaboration
Scaling up is crucial for economic viability. We suggested consortia merge efforts, forming Groene Liggers V.O.F. Frank Rens from GBN highlights economic benefits alongside environmental gains of 97% CO2 savings per beam, with local availability reducing global resource needs.
Challenges in Transport and Storage
Scaling up isnt easy, dependent on synchronized projects. Delays can disrupt schedules, necessitating temporary storage; Rijkswaterstaat offers space at Zeesluis IJmuiden.
From Demolition to Dismantling
New methods are required for beam harvesting, traditionally demolished and crushed. This needs careful dismantling, demanding learning by doing given initial designs didnt factor this.
Government Collaboration
Project matching requires internal cooperation; many beams serve new Rijkswaterstaat projects while 27 go to the N201 bridge by the Province of North Holland, aligning with sustainability objectives.