1-979 Collaborative research into new generation of asphalt materials

The purpose of this research task is to undertake an independent review of processes to improve the assessment, efficiency and cost effectiveness of Reclaimed Asphalt (RA) materials and end of life assessment for mixtures containing additives or components derived from waste products.

Increasingly, non-bituminous, non-mineral and waste-derived products are being proposed as novel additives or components for inclusion in asphalts. While this may address sustainability challenges of other industries, the potential impacts on whole-life performance of asphalts is often not fully addressed beyond marketing claims around limited performance characteristics. Some waste-derived streams may have the potential to influence end of waste criteria of the additives and / or prevent future recycling and reuse of the asphalt product into which they are 'recycled'.

It is essential that a review is carried out now to ensure that any expected economic and/or environmental benefits are properly understood prior to possibly developing specifications and methods for design, procurement, application and assessment of sustainable and innovative materials.