SBB is to test concrete sleepers with a rubber base as it undertakes track renewals between Pratteln and Kaiseraugst. The trial of the sleepers is taking place alongside routine track replacement on the line, with 130 m of rubber-based concrete sleepers due to be laid. SBB hopes that the sleepers, which can be laid conventionally by track machines, will dramatically reduce noise and vibration. The tracklaying was due to have been completed last month, and SBB will assess the results of the sleeper trial in the summer of 2007. SBB is investing around SFr700 000 in the project.SBB, Switzerland

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