Researchers at the University of Calgary are working to develop better asphalt for roads and pothole repairs. “Properties of asphalt are crucial for the performance of the pavement. Even the small enhancement of the properties of the asphalt binder will lead to better longevity. Better longevity is significant to reduce taxpayer money and protect the environment,” said Martin Jasso, UCalgary bituminous materials research chair. The group, of about 10 people, is testing out different synthetic polymers and recycled plastic, among other things. The group is also trying to make it more cost-effective and able to withstand Calgary’s unique climate. “Temperatures of minus 20 and 30, and freeze-thaw cycles, are really devastating for regular asphalt. That’s something we need to control and understand how they’re going to fail,” researcher Esteban Tellez said. The asphalt being developed by the researchers is being used by Cenovus. Potholes are created when water gets into cracks in the roads. When the water freezes, it expands, weakening the surface, which eventually collapses into a pothole. The City of Calgary has patched more than 6,700 potholes this year. Last year, crews fixed almost 38,000.
