Axion to install recycled plastic railroad ties

Axion International, a producer of recycled composite plastic industrial railroad ties, will install its thermoplastic railroad ties, designed from 100% recycled plastic, in the city of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The city of Calgary operates approximately 28 miles of track for light rail vehicles, serving a population more than 1 million. The city originally ordered 60 Axion ties as a test phase project in early 2009. After performing well during a complete freeze-cycle during the Canadian winter months, Calgary is now moving forward with this second purchase order, where some of the ties will be integrated into a railroad crossing. "We are thrilled to receive a new order from the city of Calgary for our proprietary composite railroad ties," stated Steve Silverman, Axion's president. "This purchase order not only opens additional sales potential in and around Calgary itself, it also represents an opportunity to expand our relationship with other transit agencies and railways in Canada as we continue to demonstrate the real-world applications of our thermoplastic technology and its superior strength and long-life characteristics compared with more traditional railroad tie material such as timber and concrete." Axion's products have been effectively demonstrated in other Canadian cities as well. In March 2009, its thermoplastic railroad ties were showcased and installed under special track at the Toronto Transit Commission streetcar line. Developed in conjunction with Rutgers University's Materials Sciences and Engineering Department, Axion's RSC is inert and contains no toxic materials. It is impervious to insect infestation, will never leach toxic chemicals or warp. Because it is lighter than traditional materials, transporting RSC is less expensive and reduces energy costs. In addition, RSC is completely recyclable at the end of its functional life.