CPB Contractors has helped deliver an Australian-first sustainability innovation on Canberra Light Rail Stage 2A, becoming the first project in the country to use 100% recycled macro-synthetic fibres in a concrete track slab.
The track slab is a critical component of the light rail system, providing a durable foundation that supports reliable operations, minimises uneven wear and reduces long-term maintenance requirements.
Working closely with locally based manufacturer Danbar Fibre Division, the project team developed and tested an innovative concrete mix that replaces traditional steel reinforcement with macro-synthetic fibres manufactured from 100% recycled polypropylene.
The collaboration involved extensive design development, testing and trials to ensure the mix met the project's stringent performance and durability requirements. To date, more than 1,000 cubic metres of the recycled fibre concrete mix has been installed across the project.
The innovation delivers significant sustainability benefits by reducing embodied carbon, increasing the use of recycled materials and supporting Australian manufacturing.
Danbar manufactures the RePoly fibres in Ballarat, Victoria, using recycled plastics sourced locally. The company has also partnered with NDIS provider McCallum Industries for more than 15 years, creating meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities through product packaging and supply chain support.
The initiative demonstrates how strong partnerships across the supply chain can deliver innovative solutions that generate environmental, economic and social value.
For CPB Contractors, the achievement reflects our commitment to finding smarter, more sustainable ways to deliver infrastructure that leaves a positive legacy for the communities we serve.
By embracing new technologies and working collaboratively with industry partners, the Canberra Light Rail Stage 2A team has shown how innovation can help reshape the future of transport infrastructure in Australia.