This article explores why traditional steel is becoming less practical for water industry infrastructure due to corrosion, maintenance, and sustainability challenges. It introduces d² GRP, an advanced composite solution designed to outperform steel.
In the water treatment and utilities sectors, steel has long been the go-to material for raised walkways, platforms, trench covers and access structures. Its strength and familiarity make it a natural choice. However, the growing demands for corrosion resistance, safety, sustainability, and reduced maintenance mean traditional materials like steel are no longer the most practical or cost-effective option.
Enter d² Glass Reinforced Polymer (GRP) Profiles and Grating — our advanced composite solutions designed to outperform steel in the harshest environments, while helping the industry meet sustainability targets.
Our d² GRP range is engineered specifically for demanding industrial environments, including wastewater treatment plants, pumping stations, and utility infrastructure. Designed to tackle the challenges where steel often falls short, d² GRP offers significant advantages that can’t be ignored.
Our d² range is used to create a wide variety of infrastructure solutions, including access platforms, ladders and elevated walkways—each designed with longevity in mind to help futureproof your assets and support cost-effective, reliable facility performance.
In addition, we offer GRP Trough Lids. Fall Arrest and Chamber Covers that serve as a robust yet lighter-weight alternative to traditional steel Technocovers. Their non-corrosive properties make them ideal for harsh environments, while their reduced weight simplifies both handling and installation.
Corrosion remains the biggest weakness of steel in water and wastewater applications. Even galvanised or coated steel degrades when constantly exposed to moisture, sewage, and chemical gases such as hydrogen sulphide (H₂S) — a particularly aggressive compound found in anaerobic wastewater processes. Where required, we can supply low embodied carbon d² GRP products designed to resist exposure to hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), making them ideal for sewer and wastewater applications where this gas is commonly present.
That means, once installed, your walkways, trench covers, and access platforms stay safer for longer, with significantly less maintenance.
One of the most impressive features of d² GRP is its high strength-to-weight ratio. The innovative design is up to 33% lighter than standard materials, making it easier to handle, quicker to install, and often eliminating the need for heavy lifting equipment on site.
Despite its lighter weight, d² GRP can span longer distances and handle larger loads than traditional GRP or even steel in some cases — reducing the need for excessive supporting structures and lowering overall project costs.
Steel conducts electricity, posing potential risks in water facilities where electrical systems are everywhere — from pumps and motors to control panels.
d² GRP is non-conductive, dramatically reducing the risk of electric shock, especially in wet environments. For the water industry, this added safety benefit is a game-changer.
Sustainability is now a core focus for every industry, and the water sector is no exception. At Dura Composites, we’ve developed the world’s lowest carbon composite walkway systems — designed to help you meet your Net Zero goals without compromising on performance. Our d² range offers:
Unlike steel, which often becomes scrap at end-of-life, our d² GRP products can be recycled and repurposed. We actively support customers by taking back GRP waste from site installations, ensuring minimal environmental impact and supporting the circular economy.
We understand the pressure on contractors and water companies to report accurately on carbon impact. That’s why we provide:
For the water and utilities sector, d² GRP from Dura Composites delivers the performance of steel — and in some cases, exceeds it — while solving long-standing issues around corrosion, weight, safety, and sustainability.
By choosing d² GRP, you benefit from:
Whether you’re upgrading walkways, replacing trench covers, or designing new access platforms, d² GRP is the proven choice for future-proof water industry infrastructure.
Speak to our Client Success Team today to learn how we can help you reduce carbon, improve safety, and cut long-term costs — without compromising on performance.
Our d² range represents the pinnacle of GRP for structural walkways and associated products. Through clever design engineering, rigorous testing, and advanced data modelling, we’ve created solutions that deliver unmatched performance, sustainability, and cost efficiency. Here are some highlights of our product range:
Not all GRP products are created equal. At Dura Composites, we strive to make sustainability a priority as part of our Safer, Stronger, Greener, Proven promise. Our GRP walkway products are the only ones on the market that can be repurposed at the end of their lifespan, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Whether you’re seeking strength, longevity, or eco-conscious solutions, Dura Composites’ GRP products offer unparalleled advantages. With years of expertise and a relentless commitment to innovation, we’re here to help you unlock the full potential of composite materials for your projects.
