Haulage operators in the UK can expect better road conditions with the development of a groundbreaking self-repairing asphalt that could help address the country's ongoing pothole problem, which costs an estimated £143.5m annually. The innovative asphalt, created by a team of scientists from King’s College London, Swansea University, and Chile, has the remarkable ability to repair cracks autonomously, without any human intervention.
The self-healing properties of the asphalt are thanks to tiny spores, smaller than a human hair, which are embedded in the bitumen. These spores, filled with recycled oils, are activated when the road surface is compressed by passing vehicles. The pressure causes the spores to release the oils, filling and reversing the cracks in the road. Laboratory tests have shown the material can heal microcracks in less than an hour.
Potholes are a major issue in the UK, with an estimated £16.3bn needed to repair roads, according to the latest local authority survey. Dr Francisco Martin-Martinez from King’s College explained that the self-healing asphalt mimics natural processes seen in trees and animals, which heal their wounds over time. The new material is also more sustainable, using biomass waste instead of petroleum, which could reduce reliance on natural resources.
National Highways has welcomed the development, recognising its potential to improve road maintenance and reduce disruptions. The research team believes this technology could revolutionise infrastructure and sustainability worldwide.
