Fibre composite structures in Australia's civil engineering market: an anatomy of innovation

During the last 5–10 years there has been considerable activity in research and development of fibre composites in the Australian civil engineering market. Areas of activity have included; bridge systems, replacement of large‐section hardwood girders, waterfront structures and railway sleepers. The work has involved not only the initial concept development, but also the construction and deployment of full‐scale prototypes. Through close involvement of major asset owners, including state road and rail authorities and city councils, these technologies have evolved from initial technology demonstrators to become viable commercial alternatives to traditional structural solutions. This paper presents a review of these developments and examines the process involved in taking these new systems from a novelty to a viable and credible alternative for local asset owners.