Smart asphalt reinforcement really contributes to circularity

Not encountering unwanted materials when recycling asphalt ... it seems too good to be true. After all, the residual stream in asphalt recycling has a significant content of unwanted and problematic residual asphalt reinforcements. S&P Clever Reinforcement has the solution to that. Sven van der Wielen, S&P Benelux regional manager, updates us on this solution.

"Our asphalt reinforcement consists of carbon and/or fiberglass. This can simply be milled (along with) the asphalt and can go into the shredder together with the asphalt without any problems. The fibers come out as bitumen-coated fibers and can be mixed into new mixtures without any restrictions. It does not stick to the milling roller, nor does it stick to the mixing coils," he opens the talk.

Traditional milling is sufficient

Van der Wielen explains that traditional milling is sufficient when S&P Asphalt Reinforcement has been used. "With the majority of non-woven asphalt reinforcements, you have to mill centimeters deeper. Besides contaminating the residual flow, this also means that more asphalt has to be applied afterwards. In the context of circularity and less CO₂-emissions, this is not an ideal picture. Surely it would be a shame for clients to blindly go along with the offers of contractors who promise to meet sustainability and circularity requirements, but meanwhile deliver something we will have a problem with in 20 years? That's short term thinking. That's why we share our knowledge and are transparent. You can then no longer say you didn't know that things can be done differently."

See you in 20 years: laugh or cry?

"Most asphalt reinforcement, if applied correctly, you won't encounter it again for 20 years. If we want to be circular in 2030, we MUST take this into account now. To look ahead is to govern, as the saying goes. Our product is suitable for circular use, demonstrably. The requirements for new asphalt mixtures are becoming increasingly stringent and indirectly so are the residual flows. Instead of sitting with a huge problem 20 years from now, you'd rather look at a circularly suitable residual stream. Will it be laugh or cry? You can make that choice right now. What you put in the ground today determines the suitability of the residual stream in the future," said Van der Wielen.

A clean conscience now means a clean residual stream later

S&P Clever Reinforcement's message is clear. Quality must rise, to stop future residual stream pollution. "Clients and contractors should ask themselves whether one is really working circularly. Morally, it is not pretty if you go for an economic solution with negative consequences for the future. That bill will come due, only in 20 years, with additional problems and costs for the future owner of the structure. That while the alternative could be on your desk today. Are you pretending to be sustainable or are you? Yes, it takes guts to ask yourself this." 

Getting it right does not equal big investments. On the contrary, if it is up to S&P. "Choosing the right reinforcement at a low investment saves you a lot of money in the future. An investment with a high return. In addition, as a client and contractor, you can add value with this product and fulfill your circular promises. This puts you on the map and improves the image of your organization. Because let's be honest: circularity should not be a revenue model, it should be a mission for all of us," Van der Wielen concludes.

S&P Clever Reinforcement

"S&P Clever Reinforcement develops its products entirely in-house and delivers throughout Europe. S&P Glasphalt and S&P Carbophalt contribute to the realization of a circular infrastructure and economy!"