In the UK, Hanson has launched reduced emission asphalt (REA) products to help minimise the impact of asphalt production and laying on local air quality.
Hanson says the move follows REA trials using a specialist binder called Shell Bitumen which helps reduce emissions from asphalt mixes by an average of 40% compared with conventional bitumen.
Gareth Day, Hanson UK asphalt managing director, says: “REA is particularly beneficial for ultra-low emission zones and other areas with poor air quality. Its use can improve air quality during production as well as the road building phase – particularly in tunnels, where ventilation is an issue, and urban areas.”
The binder can be used in all Hanson asphalt products and does not affect the properties of the bitumen or asphalt. It acts with some of the chemical compounds affecting air quality as well as odour-releasing molecules – which according to Hanson – helps cut specific gases and particulates or minimise their release into the air during production and paving.
Hanson is now offering REA from a number of its plants including West Drayton in the London Borough of Hillingdon, Penmaenmawr in North Wales and Ardingly in Sussex.
