~ Geobear’s new patent helps prevent multi-day blockades by using engineered geopolymer transitions ~
Geotechnical contractor Geobear has been granted a UK patent for its innovative railway track strengthening method. The patent, awarded in November 2024, tackles longstanding challenges in railway transition zones and enhances track stability without disrupting services. The method creates a gradual change in track bed support by using geopolymer injections beneath existing tracks
Railway infrastructure faces a significant challenge at track transitions, where the shift from flexible formations like ballast to rigid foundations like concrete occurs. These abrupt changes can cause differential settlement, leading to track faults, damage to sleepers, rails, and, in extreme cases, derailment.
Conventionally, contractors excavate the track section approaching the stiff foundation to build a transitional wedge of high-compaction material beneath the ballast. However, this method is both labour-intensive and disruptive, necessitating deep excavation and complete track disassembly, often resulting in service interruptions lasting up to four days.
“Our patent offers a transformative solution to this entrenched challenge in railway infrastructure.,” explained Mohamed Wehbi, technical and business development director at Geobear and patent inventor. “Through targeted geopolymer injections beneath the existing track, we establish a carefully calibrated stiffness gradient that intensifies as it nears the foundation transition.
Unlike the conventional methods, our method does not require track-long possession. The process can be completed in two to four short night shifts without interrupting train services, making it a practical, non-disruptive solution for rail operators.”
This patented approach directly addresses one of Network Rail’s key challenges — improving track geometry resilience. Track geometry faults, often caused by settlement at transition zones, account for ten per cent of Network Rail’s total maintenance spend.
“The patent not only minimises track deterioration but also supports predictive maintenance strategies, enhancing repair effectiveness and reducing service disruptions,” explained Richard Holmes, director of infrastructure at Geobear. “By keeping lines operational during works, we can prevent lost revenue from cancelled services and maintain passenger trust.”
The method’s significance is particularly pronounced in high-speed rail applications like HS2, where trains exceeding 80 mph can amplify the risks posed by abrupt changes in track support. Abrupt changes in track stiffness at these speeds can compromise passenger safety and increase the likelihood of derailment if the transitional zones are not properly designed.
To find out more about how this patent is augmenting the safety of railways, visit www.geobear.co.uk/rail-stabilisation-subsidence.
