Sustainability in transport design? That train has left the station: More and more Australian suppliers and manufacturers are jumping the track when it comes to ensuring environmentally conscious transportation building solutions.

Railway stations, airports, harbours, metro… Transportation design encompasses countless – and often monumental – considerations.

A roof over the head of passengers is one of these sine-qua-non conditions of transport architecture. Ceilings play a crucial role in designing transport infrastructure, particularly in terms of aesthetics, functionality, and safety.

SUSTSAINABLE CEILING AND PANEL SOLUTIONS

Network Architectural are the exclusive distributor of durlum metal ceilings in Australia and New Zealand.

“We specialise in creating unique, bespoke ceilings for any commercial project from airports, railway stations and shopping centres to office buildings, schools, sporting venues and outdoor structures, durlum ceilings can bring a sleek, modern finish to any project,” says Network Architectural Ceiling Systems Manager Steven Fraser.

"Well-designed ceilings can enhance the sense of space, reduce the feeling of confinement, and incorporate lighting elements that improve visibility and safety. The materials used in ceilings can also help with acoustic control, minimising noise pollution which is crucial in busy transport hubs.

“Metal ceilings by durlum enhance spaces by combining aesthetic appeal with functionality. They offer customisable designs while improving acoustics, durability, and energy efficiency,” Fraser says.

“Additionally, they seamlessly integrate with building systems like lighting and ventilation, making them an ideal solution for modern architectural projects.”

According to Fraser, durlum metal ceilings are uniquely suited for transport infrastructure due to their durability, fire resistance, and acoustic performance, which are crucial in high-traffic environments like airports, train stations, and subways.

Their ability to integrate seamlessly with essential systems such as lighting, ventilation, and fire protection ensures both safety and functionality. Additionally, durlum ceilings offer versatile design options that meet the aesthetic and operational demands of transport hubs while maintaining long-term structural integrity under continuous use.

“Aluminium is used as a base material in the Gadigal and Victoria cross projects, because of its durability and resistance to corrosion which reduces any ongoing maintenance of the panels and increases the life span of the product saving the need to replace material,” says Fraser.

“The panels are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan meaning that the projects will reduce the volume of waste that ends up in landfill and aid the circular economy. In manufacturing we use up to 70% recycled post-consumer aluminium, the use of recycled aluminium can reduce the energy consumption of the aluminium panels by 95% therefore reducing the impact of the project overall.”

In the same vein, Armstrong Ceiling Solutions Australia supplies a range of ceiling systems designed to meet the specific needs of transport infrastructure.

These include durable metal ceilings, acoustic panels, and modular systems that are well-suited for airports, train stations, and other high-traffic areas where aesthetics and practicality go hand in hand. Modular systems are designed for quick installation and easy access.

Armstrong Ceiling Solutions Digital Marketing Executive Jayne Macdonald is adamant: In busy transport hubs where downtime needs to be minimised, the ability to swiftly install, remove, or replace ceiling panels is a major advantage. This is particularly useful for ongoing maintenance, repairs, or upgrades without disrupting operations.

“Our ceiling systems perform several critical functions in transport infrastructure projects. They enhance acoustic performance, ensuring a more pleasant experience for travellers by reducing noise levels and controlling reverberation,” Macdonald says.

“Additionally, our products can contribute to the overall aesthetic and design integrity of transport spaces, allowing architects to create visually striking and functional environments. Importantly, our ceilings used in infrastructure projects are tested to strict fire standards and can be designed to ensure seismic compliance.

“Our ceiling solutions stand out for their durability, ease of maintenance, and adaptability to complex design requirements. They are built to withstand the high demands of transport infrastructure, where longevity, performance, and resilience are crucial.”

One notable project is the Brisbane International Airport Northern Concourse Expansion. For this project, Armstrong Ceiling Solutions provided a range of ceiling solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of the terminal’s various spaces.

Above: The ceilings at Brisbane International Airport by Armstrong Ceiling Solutions. / Supplied.

For the departures and arrivals lounges, the company installed 1,000m² of Ultima Tegular Edge ceiling panels. Ultima is known for its high acoustic performance, offering a balanced combination of Ceiling Attenuation Class (CAC) and Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC).

“Sustainability is a core focus for us in terms of product development including our contributions to the Brisbane International Airport expansion,” says Macdonald.

“Ultima ceiling panels for are certified by Global GreenTag. Their installation helped reduce the environmental impact of the materials used, aligning with eco-friendly building practices.”

Another vital component of transport design: Panels. According to Lara Okhrimenko, Marketing Marketing at Arrow Metal, the company has manufactured perforated metal panels for over 30 years that are used to provide safe and sustainable barriers for transport infrastructure as well as achieve aesthetic goals and broaden design opportunities.

“Our perforated metal panels solve the challenges of passenger privacy, visual interest, weather conditions, accessibility, and safety, whilst adhering to any required planning and design principles,” Okhrimenko says.

“For transport projects specifiers usually go with perforated metal panels made of aluminium. Our perforated metal panels contribute to sustainability rating of each project they have been used for because aluminium is a highly sustainable material.

“It is 100% recyclable at end-of-life, 75% of the aluminium ever made is still in use today, and Arrow Metal uses aluminium that’s at least 54% recycled content.”

Above: Unanderra Station perforated metal footbridge by Arrow Metal. / Supplied.

KEEPING IT INSULATED

Insulation is another key aspect of transport design, because it enhances passenger comfort by providing effective noise reduction and thermal regulation among others.

Kingspan Insulated Panels supplies a range of high-performance insulated panels and cladding systems that support the construction, design, and long-term maintenance of transport infrastructure projects.

These products deliver robust thermal insulation, structural integrity, and energy efficiency. Each product is engineered to meet the unique demands of transport infrastructure, offering durability and sustainability across diverse projects.

“Kingspan’s products provide key functions including thermal insulation, weather resistance, and structural performance. Insulated panels contribute to maintaining stable internal temperatures within stations and terminals, while reducing energy consumption,” says Connor Baynes-Holden, Marketing Manager at Kingspan.

“The durability and structural integrity of these solutions also help extend the lifespan of infrastructure, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and repairs while supporting the continuity of transport operations. Additionally, they aid in improving acoustic performance and ensuring safety compliance for public spaces.”

Sustainability is a given at Kingspan according to Baynes-Holden: Kingspan’s products are known for their high thermal efficiency, durability, and sustainable attributes, making them ideal for transport infrastructure projects.

“Kingspan insulated panels provide high R-values, ensuring energy-efficient solutions that reduce reliance on external heating and cooling systems. Additionally, they are made from lightweight, easy-to-install materials that contribute to faster construction timelines and lower transportation costs,” he says.

Kingspan also uses sustainable materials and manufacturing processes to help reduce carbon footprints. Other significant benefits include fire performance, corrosion resistance, and versatility in architectural designs.

“Sustainability is central to Kingspan’s approach, and its products consistently contribute to key sustainability outcomes in transport infrastructure projects,” Baynes-Holden says.

“Using high R-value panels reduces energy consumption in buildings and results in lower operational carbon emissions, while the ease of disassembly and recycling reduces construction waste at the end of a building’s lifecycle.”

Pyrotek has also developed and tested a wide range of sound mitigating materials that are utilised throughout the transport industry. These material innovations are used in vehicles – cars, trucks, buses providing the means for the daily commute or in the infrastructure built to deliver a sustainable and reliable public and private transport network.

“Our approach is twofold, providing a comfortable environment for the commute, and reducing the environmental noise impact on surrounding areas,” says Danielle Moore, Marketing Coordinator at Pyrotek.

“The solutions can range from interior/internal sound absorption, reduction of reverberation, thin flexible mass loaded vinyls for noise barriers – externally exposed or not, composites combining solutions into one, vibration damping and vibration isolation.”

At Pyrotek, solutions are often a multi-faceted approach, allowing its technical experts to engage with the acoustic consultants in developing a custom solution for any project.

“We see our products such as Reapor, Viterolite and Decidamp RTD specified in infrastructure projects for use in the construction of road & rail tunnels, along and between rail tracks, amongst several other materials used in the construction of stations such as Sorbertextile P44, Sorberpoly 2D, Sorbermel GC, Soundlag and Wavebar to name a few,” Moore says.

Insulation is also king at Knauf Insulation, a global leader in the manufacture of various types of insulation materials.

“In Australia, we supply glasswool, manufactured in the form of batts, rolls and blowing wool at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Asia Pacific,” says Knauf Insulation Marketing and Communications Specialist Sanhita Padia.

“All products utilise a proprietary plant-based binder technology, ECOSE technology, has no added formaldehyde making it the only Red List Free glasswool in Australia.”

In the transport industry, especially in the aviation sector, thermal and acoustic performance is extremely vital for enabling an enhanced passenger experience. Knauf Insulation products have been specified and implemented in various airport terminals due to the unique properties of thermal resistivity, acoustic performance, non-combustibility, sustainability credentials and longevity that are offered.

Above: Knauf Insulation’s glasswool products were specified for use in the Western Sydney International Airport. / Supplied.

Knauf Insulation’s glasswool products were specified for use in the Western Sydney International Airport project across the Main Terminal, Terminal Pier, 7 Fixed Link Bridges, and the roof area around the airport.

“Knauf Insulation products deliver excellent thermal and acoustic performance and are available in various forms for different applications such as exterior walls, ceilings, metal roofs and interior walls,” Padia says.

These products are non-combustible, have low carbon content and are free of harmful ingredients. Knauf Insulation products are made using up to 80% recycled glass with a plant-based binder ECOSE technology that does not contain any added formaldehyde.

“This enables all products to be awarded the Declare Red List Free Label which certifies that no raw materials listed on the Red List have been used,” Padia says.

“This is extremely crucial to maintain indoor health quality for the many employees and customers who spend hours for travel at a stretch.”

ADDING SAFETY AND SECURITY TO TRANSPORT DESIGN

Safety and security in transport infrastructure is also of the utmost importance, and the team at ASSA ABLOY is all about providing sustainable safety solutions.

ASSA ABLOY prioritises comprehensive range includes security entrance control systems, doors for transport hubs, and industrial and high-speed doors.

“Our security entrance control systems offer customisable solutions such as revolving doors, security portals, exit lanes, turnstiles, speed gates, and tripods. These systems are built for environments where security is paramount and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your building,” ASSA ABLOY Senior Marketing & Communications Specialist Gray Williams says.

“We also provide specialised doors for bus stations, train stations, and airports. Our product portfolio includes automatic doors, security speed gates, departure/arrival gates, and doors that separate security zones.”

These doors are designed to be safe, secure, and convenient for both internal and external use. Additionally, the company’s industrial and high-speed doors are suitable for various applications, ensuring efficient and secure operations within transport infrastructure.

ASSA ABLOY’s involvement in transport-related projects has significantly contributed to sustainable outcomes and enhanced the overall sustainability attributes of these projects.

“With our best-in-class design, installation, and maintenance services, we ensure that your entrance systems are not only secure but also future-ready. Whether you are safeguarding public venues or monitoring critical infrastructure projects, our solutions are built to meet the highest standards of safety and security,” Williams says.

ALL ABOUT SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

Build it better. When it comes to materials, Stoddart Infrastructure says it knows the importance of making the right choice. The company is a prominent player in the infrastructure sector, known for its work in designing, manufacturing, and supplying a variety of products related to transport infrastructure.

Stoddart Infrastructure’s focus on high-quality materials and custom solutions contributes significantly to sustainable transport infrastructure projects. By utilising durable, recyclable materials and offering innovative design solutions, the company support the development of infrastructure that is both environmentally friendly and long-lasting.

“Stoddart Infrastructure provides a range of steel and aluminium products, including structural steelwork, platforms, and handrails. These materials are integral to building durable and robust infrastructure such as bridges, railways, and pedestrian walkways,” says Matthew Roe, Marketing Executive at Stoddart Infrastructure.

“By offering custom and innovative design solutions, Stoddart Infrastructure can address specific project needs in a way that optimises material use and enhances the overall sustainability of the infrastructure.

“Stoddart Infrastructure's focus on high-quality materials and custom solutions contributes significantly to sustainable transport infrastructure projects. By utilising durable, recyclable materials and offering innovative design solutions, they support the development of infrastructure that is both environmentally friendly and long-lasting.”

Above: Stoddart Infrastructure provides a range of steel and aluminium products, such as here at Central Station. / Supplied.

In a similar manner, Holcim offers a diverse portfolio of low embodied carbon concrete products under the "ECOPact" brand, tailored to meet various construction needs which is used in the building and design of transport infrastructure.

“ECOPact Active mixes challenge the current perception that High Performance Concrete (HPC) Mixes generally cannot be sustainable,” Marketing Manager - Value Added Products at Holcim Declan Walters says.

“Holcim is using new generation admixtures and strength enhancing additives to achieve high early age strength performance while reducing embodied carbon in HPC concrete products. These mixes also retain their plastic properties like pumpability, and finishability.”

Holcim's ECOPact Active mixes can be designed, or tailor made to achieve different early age strengths to suit various precast applications. These mixes are already VICRoads approved and in use in different precast structures, in-situ stitch pour applications in various level crossing removal projects in Melbourne.

“For all projects, we know that early engagement is the key,” Walters says.

“Working with the project team, identifying applications to challenge the status quo, utilising some of the digital solutions Holcim has can have significant impact on reducing the project's overall CO2 footprint.”

The integration of durable, recyclable materials like aluminium, advanced insulation technologies, and bespoke ceiling systems demonstrates a holistic approach to building infrastructure that is not only resilient but also environmentally responsible. As these industry leaders collaborate to push the boundaries of what is possible in transport architecture, the emphasis on sustainability is not just a trend but a necessity, setting a benchmark for future developments in the sector.

Main Image: Aluminium is used as a base material in the Gadigal and Victoria Cross Metro projects./ Network Architectural.

SUPPLIERS

Network Architectural (Durlum)

Armstrong Ceiling Solution

Arrow Metal

Kingspan Insulated Panels

Pyrotek

Knauf Insulation

ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems

Stoddart Infrastructure

Holcim

Clémence Carayol

Let’s connect!