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In October 2024, we were proud to be part of a collaboration to conduct the first Biophalt® trial in Ireland – offering a lower carbon asphalt using a plant-based alternative to traditional bitumen that also includes 40 per cent recycled materials.
In terms of sustainability, bitumen has both positives and negatives. On the plus side it allows us to manufacture asphalt with a 30-to-40-year design life. And once the road needs to be replaced the bitumen can be reused as recycled asphalt.
However, bitumen is refined from crude oil, so it contributes to the carbon footprint of asphalt and for this reason we looked at plant-based alternatives known as bio-binders.
With collaboration between Transport Infrastructure Ireland, the Department of Transport Clare County Council, and the support of Eiffage, we set about creating the first Biophalt® trial in Ireland.
Before industrial scale production, Eiffage conducted extensive studies focused on durability, ageing and recyclability. The binder used for this trial was derived from a by-product associated with the forestry and paper making industry. These products are also modified with polymers to enhance mechanical performance. The binder works particularly well with aged bitumen from old asphalt.
For this trial we developed a mixture using 40 per cent recycled asphalt planings, further reducing the need for virgin aggregates.
The mixture is also manufactured at a mixing temperature 30 to 40 degrees lower than traditional mixes, reducing the fuel consumption at the asphalt plant and limiting fumes for site operatives.
The material was laid and compacted in the same way as conventional materials without any issues and we will continue to monitor the site’s performance over the coming years
We were delighted to facilitate the trial of this new Biophalt® product in Ennis County Clare. From a sustainability point of view, the embodied carbon of this new product is substantially lower than if a traditional petroleum-based product was used.
If we are to achieve our Climate action plan targets then it will take innovative approaches such as this, working in collaboration with Breedon to deliver the road infrastructure in Clare County Council.
