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Research, Development and Industrial Applications
Materials Innovation for More Resilient Road Infrastructure
We undertake research and technology development in advanced pavement materials, with a focus on resource efficiency, durability and performance under demanding environmental conditions.
Our work connects material formulation, laboratory evaluation and application development to support the transition from research concepts to practical pavement solutions.
Selected products from this programme, including our two-component asphalt rejuvenator, are in commercial production and use.
We develop rejuvenator formulations for aged asphalt binders and mixtures containing reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP). Research focuses on restoring binder properties, improving compatibility and balancing cracking resistance with resistance to permanent deformation.
Our approach considers both initial performance and long-term ageing behaviour, supporting the effective use of recycled materials in pavement construction.
We investigate functional pavement materials designed to mitigate ice formation and facilitate snow removal. Research includes electrically conductive coatings and surface layers, together with approaches to integrating heating systems with renewable energy and energy storage.
Key considerations include heating efficiency, temperature uniformity, electrical safety, skid resistance and durability under repeated traffic loading and winter exposure.
We explore conductive fillers, polymer binders and composite structures that combine electrical functionality with mechanical performance.
Research focuses on conductive network stability, filler dispersion, substrate adhesion and resistance to moisture, thermal cycling and wear.
We research protective coatings and pavement surface systems with improved wear resistance, weathering resistance and water repellency.
Formulation development considers the relationship between surface texture, skid resistance, adhesion and service life, alongside opportunities to incorporate recycled constituents and reduce maintenance requirements.
We investigate interactions between binders, functional additives, fillers and aggregates to develop formulations suited to defined pavement applications and construction conditions.
We study adhesion, surface texture and interfacial behaviour to improve coating integrity, functional performance and resistance to delamination.
Laboratory evaluation examines relevant mechanical, thermal, electrical and environmental properties. Testing is selected according to the intended application and may include ageing, moisture exposure, freeze–thaw cycling, abrasion and repeated loading.
We develop material preparation, dosing, mixing and installation procedures, with attention to compatibility with existing asphalt production plants and pavement construction equipment.
Our development process combines laboratory validation with production trials and field evaluation. Materials are assessed against application-specific requirements before wider deployment.
Environmental benefits are assessed against defined reference materials and processes, considering production, installation, maintenance and end-of-life treatment.
Potential applications span new construction, maintenance and functional upgrades of existing roads.
Rejuvenated mixtures containing reclaimed asphalt pavement, produced with existing plant equipment.
Durable surfacing and rehabilitation materials that extend service life and reduce maintenance.
Functional surfaces and heated systems for selected road sections exposed to ice and snow.
Surfaces that combine skid resistance, water repellency and winter performance where safety is critical.
Coatings with improved wear, weathering and water resistance for demanding surfaces.
Material selection and system design are guided by traffic conditions, climate, substrate characteristics and maintenance requirements.
We welcome collaboration with highway authorities, asphalt producers, construction contractors, material suppliers and research institutions.
Contact Us
Share your pavement type, traffic and climate conditions, recycled material targets and performance requirements with us to explore suitable materials and pathways to field application.
