Elastic and self-repairing top layer for bicycle bridge Tegenbosch

The Thermoflex top layer has a demonstrable lifespan of more than 20 years, which is truly unique. "It results in a significant reduction in the total cost of 'life maintenance' compared to all other solutions, such as PMMA, acrylic coating or colored asphalt," says Nicky Clements of Possehl.

Thermoflex is a well-known top layer in the Netherlands. "It is many times safer for the user than red asphalt or a coating, because Thermoflex is more visible in the dark and in bad weather," explains Clements. "We have now applied millions of square meters of it throughout the Netherlands. From red bicycle paths, green bus lanes, colored exit lanes, natural walkways and the most creative squares. We have been doing this since the 1980s. Many suggestion strips that we laid in the early years are still intact. This is because the top layer lies stress-free on the substrate. Due to the elastic, thermoplastic effect, cracks and cracking repair themselves. The coating is then dusted with a natural stone in a reasonably coarse grain of 2-3 millimeters. With this combination, we can guarantee that demonstrably long service life of up to twenty years." For bicycle bridge Tegenbosch, Clements expects an even longer lifespan. "Only bicycle traffic goes over it, no wriggling traffic."

"Currently, Possehl is developing a bio-based Thermoflex," Clements reveals. "It provides a reduction in CO₂-emission of 20% without loss of quality. By then also using circular dusting material, we have come full circle. In addition, we invite interested parties to come take a look at our new Experience Center that opened recently. Visitors can experience Thermoflex's production process and even create their own samples in any color."