Optimisation of macro-synthetic fibre reinforced concrete (MSFRC) as alternative railway sleepers

This paper investigates Macro-Synthetic Fibre Reinforced Concrete (MSFRC) sleepers, focusing on the use of BarChip fibres to enhance the mechanical properties of railway sleepers. Traditional sleeper materials such as timber, steel, and prestressed concrete have faced increasing research due to concerns over durability, cost, environmental impact, and material degradation. As a sustainable alternative, MSFRC sleepers have shown potential, particularly in redistributing high static and dynamic loads. However, their practical implementation has been limited by concerns over long-term performance and production costs. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the potential of MSFRC sleepers by analysing the effects of varying fibre dosages and aspect ratios on the mechanical performance of sleepers. The study also addresses the sustainability benefits of MSFRC in terms of durability and resource optimisation, proposing that the incorporation of recycled fibres into the concrete mix could significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with railway infrastructure. The paper concludes that MSFRC sleepers offer a viable alternative to conventional materials, with improvements in mechanical performance and durability. Moreover, the use of recycled synthetic fibres contributes to resource minimisation and aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), particularly Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). By reducing the environmental impact and extending the service life of railway sleepers, MSFRC presents a pathway towards more sustainable infrastructure in the railway industry.