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structures
3D-printed concrete headwall tested on A30 upgrade
Costain and National Highways have created a 3D-printed concrete headwall to be trialled on the A30 Chiverton to Carland Cross upgrade in Cornwall. The headwall forms the entrance to an under-road wildlife crossing on the A30 dualling project.
The 2.3t structure is made of alkali-activated cementitious material and its curved shape is stronger than traditional rectangular headwalls, so does not need reinforcement.
It was printed with support from specialist partner Versarien.
During printing, Cambridge University researchers embedded sensors in the structure to capture temperature and movement data. This technology could be used in other areas once proved.
RAIL
£15M awarded to establish rail innovation centre in Wales
A consortium of universities has been awarded £15M to establish a railway research and innovation centre in south Wales. The University of Birmingham, working with the University of Cardiff and Swansea University, are to establish the Centre of Excellence for Railway Testing, Validation & Customer Experience to support railway sector innovation.
The centre will be at the under-construction Global Centre of Rail Excellence in Onllwyn. Funding was allocated by the UK Research Partnership Investment Fund.
ENERGY
Geothermal borehole first for London development
The first geothermal borehole for a ground source heat pump system has been completed on the Salisbury Square development in the City of London.
It is one of more than 60, 240m deep boreholes which are to be installed by the scheme’s main contractor Mace and subcontractor G-Core.
The geothermal borehole system uses consistent temperatures deep underground and is the most energy-efficient method of heating and cooling using electric solutions, eliminating the need for gas.
ENERGY
Innovation competition seeks tidal barrage solutions
The Welsh Government has launched its £750,000 Tidal Lagoon Challenge, inviting innovators to break down barriers which prevent the development of tidal lagoons. Tidal lagoons use the tide to create a water level differential on either side of a lagoon wall.
This stores water which is used to drive turbines in the wall when released. Funds will be awarded in three categories: environment; engineering and technical and finance and socio-economic.
Entry deadline is 18 September.
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