Transport for London (TfL) has validated the use of 50% recycled asphalt in the top layer of its road surfaces, becoming one of the UK’s first road authorities to do so.
Working alongside leading asphalt manufacturer FM Conway, TfL began trialling “reclaimed asphalt pavement” (RAP) nine years ago on the A1 at Mill Hill. FM Conway has since confirmed that 50% RAP performs as well as traditional asphalt, with the durability to withstand frequent heavy traffic. TfL recently stated that it now uses the 50/50 mix where feasible.
RAP is considered to have the potential for significantly reducing carbon emissions. In addition to using recycled materials, the asphalt could have greater longevity, reducing the frequency of maintenance and replacement works. This would help cut emissions related to these types of roadworks.
Although RAP testing is becoming more common, there is still some way to go until it becomes standard practice. Currently, National Highways only allows 10% recycled materials in road surfaces, although this is set to rise to 20% later this year. Other road authorities can set their own limits, but few exceed the National Highways limit.
Isabel Coman, Director of engineering and asset strategy at TfL, said: “We are committed to reducing carbon emissions across our assets and infrastructure to help us meet our net-zero targets.
“By trialling a higher proportion of recycled asphalt on the A1 at Mill Hill, we’ve become one of the first authorities in the UK to successfully incorporate 50% RAP in the top layer of one of our major roads and proved its ability to withstand heavy traffic loading.”
“This trial demonstrates our commitment to sustainability and gives a strong signal to the supply chain that we are seeking innovative solutions to reduce the embedded carbon in our major construction materials. We hope this encourages other highway authorities to conduct similar trials and continue to drive improvements in the sustainability, reliability and durability across the sector.”
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