Fibre composite pile replacement/rehabilitation system

Testing of fibre composite pile

Fibre composite technology is one of the sutainable alternative material. In the marine environment in particular, fibre composite materials can be selected for their corrosion, rot, and pest resistance, as well as high strength-to-weight. This project aims to develop a system for pile replacement for piers, jetties and boardwalks using fibre composite technology to enable replacement of piles for rehabilitation of these structures. Given the significant number of timber-piled piers in particular along the Queensland and remainder of the Australian coastline, the commercial potential for the development of a cost-effective fibre composite system that has an expected life of 50-100 years is enormous. This system will enable piles to be repaired or replaced with long-life fibre composite piles. Thus, the Brisbane City Council has contracted Buchanan Advanced Composites Pty Ltd to design and supply fibre composite pile replacement/rehabilitation system and the University of Southern Queensland for research and development for the development of this new innovation under the Queensland government – Smart Futures Fund.

Project partners

Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation, QLD
Buchanan Advanced Composites Pty Ltd

CEEFC Project coordinator

Prof Thiru Aravinthan