Chemical, strength and non-destructive tests will be conducted by ACRI through CQUniversity to estimate the remaining service life of for a selection of concrete sleeper categories based on design, environmental conditions and operating conditions.

This two-year investigation within the ACRI heavy haul research program will advance rail industry knowledge of the health monitoring of infrastructure.  Many concrete sleepers have been in-track and successfully operating for over 40 years and may last much longer than the original expectation of 50 years. Questions remain about how long that may be and what will be the early signs of failure. In addition to the laboratory tests on sample sleepers provided by ACRI industry participants, the research incorporates a literature review.

ACRI participants will receive the results of this research following scheduled completion in mid 2020.