Sandwich Plate System (SPS) is the name of a patented structural composite material comprising two metal plates bonded with an elastomer core. SPS was created in partnership with chemical manufacturer BASF incorporating Elastocore ® [1] as the core material. The SPS material is a direct replacement for stiffened steel and reinforced concrete in heavy engineering projects.

Sandwich Plate System, SPS Ⓣ, basic configuration of two metal faces with Elastomer core

SPS is a licensed technology used globally in various engineered structures including maritime ships, offshore assets, buildings, stadiums and arenas, bridges and other special applications.

History

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SPS was invented by Dr Stephen Kennedy following primary research in the field of ice-strengthened structures at Carleton University in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada and first patented in 1996. Intelligent Engineering UK Limited [2] was founded in April 1996 to commercialise the technology and later formally dissolved. The first recorded project involving SPS was carried out on the P&O Pride of Cherbourg, a Lloyd's Register approved vessel in 1999.

Notable Projects

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Civil engineering projects incorporating SPS include:

Vessels and assets incorporating SPS include:

References

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  1. ^ "Elastocore® (PU)".
  2. ^ https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/03184851 Intelligent Engineering (UK) Limited
  3. ^ Archived at Ghostarchive and the Wayback Machine: Ohio's Muskingum County Bridge Replacement with SPS Deck on Press-Brake-Formed Steel Tub Girders. YouTube.
  4. ^ Archived at Ghostarchive and the Wayback Machine: New footbridge to Colman Dock in Seattle opens Sunday. YouTube.