On 29 June Royal Haskoning and FiberCore Europe signed a unique joint venture for the worldwide launch of the composite Delft Design Bridge, which they have developed together. This ultra-modern bridge is constructed of 100% fibre-reinforced composite. It is light weight, sustainable, safe and easy to maintain. It is also a highly attractive technical proposition in terms of cost.
FiberCore Europe were originally aircraft manufacturers. Joris Smits is an architect with Royal Haskoning. They came together to devise a unique, innovative combination. InfraCore® Inside, the base technology for production of The Delft Design Bridge, is ideally suited to mass production. In variable lengths and widths, these lightweight bridges are quick to make and easy to build. A recent lifecycle analysis revealed that this bridge has a much longer lifecycle than others made of concrete and steel.
The slimline architecture easily blends into densely populated and rural settings. Architect Joris Smits always ensures a bridge's colour is in keeping with its surroundings. Every bridge is numbered and signed by the architect.
The application of hi-tech fibre-reinforced composites is not new in building and infrastructure. Composites have many advantages over steel, concrete and timber. At least 14 composite bridges have already been installed in the Netherlands. And this summer FiberCore Europe will be delivering the first composite bridge with InfraCore® Inside to the Chinese city of Shanghai.