DSM showcases lightweight composite containers for sea, road and rail

DUTCH life sciences and materials science company DSM has showcased its lightweight containers, the new HighQ container, which aims to be lighter than its steel counterparts by 20 per cent at the annual Intermodal Europe tradeshow in Amsterdam.

The 45-foot pallet-wide high cube prototype container has reduced its weight through composite panel made from advanced composite material technology from DSM, to replace commonly used corrugated steel.

It is designed for a range of transport modes, including sea. road and rail and tested through "severe situations" during trials for Reykjavik-based Samskip. The carrier is to acquire the first series for its fleet in 2013.

Its key advantage is cost-efficiency through a lower weight combined with an aerodynamic design, which will increase competitiveness of intermodal transport, said DSM in a company statement. Conversely, when used in transport modes where weight limitations apply, such as road and rail, the lower weight of the box itself results in payload increases.

This container is a true example of DSM using its innovative power to drive sustainability in our society, said Theo Jongeling, HighQ containers business manager at DSM. "The use of composite technology reduces the impact on the environment even during the manufacturing stage and continues to do this during the entire time that the container is operational. This solution is good for the environment and our customers' business at the same time."