A solution for modifying the composition of bitumen and asphalt concrete using granules from end-of-life car tyres, jointly developed by scientists from the Riga Technical University (RTU) Faculty of Civil Engineering and the Faculty of Materials Science and Applied Chemistry, has been recognised by the Latvian Academy of Sciences (LZA) as one of the most significant scientific achievements of 2021, reports RTU.

Last autumn, in the Vilce parish of Jelgava municipality, an experimental asphalt concrete surface was laid on a road heavily used by heavy goods vehicles, incorporating an innovative solution for modifying the bitumen binder with rubber granules derived from end-of-life car tyres.

Recycling end-of-life tyres is a pressing issue worldwide. The work was carried out by scientists from the RTU Department of Roads and Bridges and the RTU Department of Polymer Materials Technology as part of a pilot project implemented by the Latvian Tyre Management Association (LRAA), commissioned by the Latvian Environmental Protection Fund Administration (LVAFA).