SuperLow-Carbon
biogenic bitumen: An evolution in asphalt
Aggregate Industries, in partnership with Shell Bitumen, has developed SuperLow-Carbon, an asphalt solution that reduces the carbon footprint of road construction. By integrating biogenic materials into the bitumen, SuperLow-Carbon captures and stores CO2, even when recycled, acting as a carbon sink. This asphalt requires less energy to produce, operates at lower temperatures for enhanced safety and longevity, and allows quicker project completion, reducing traffic disruptions. SuperLow-Carbon is a significant advancement in the industry’s move towards net zero emissions.
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SuperLow-Carbon Benefits
Why use SuperLow-Carbon Asphalt?
SuperLow-Carbon (SLC) is a specialised asphalt product designed for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining high performance. This warm mix asphalt (WMA) is produced at lower temperatures than traditional hot mix asphalts, requiring less energy and resulting in a significantly lower carbon footprint. In fact, the innovative use of a low carbon binder and biogenic materials in SLC reduces carbon emissions by up to 30% compared to standard mixes. The asphalt also acts as a carbon sink, storing carbon throughout its life, even after it is recycled.
Beyond its environmental benefits, SLC asphalt reaches traffic-ready temperatures more quickly, reducing road closure times and minimising disruption to the public. It also offers improved workability at lower temperatures, ensuring better compaction and durability, leading to longer-lasting road surfaces. Additionally, the reduced fuming and steam at the site improve safety conditions for workers. SuperLow-Carbon is a practical choice for contractors who need to meet tight deadlines, ensure safety, and prioritise sustainability in their projects.
The development of our sustainable asphalt products, which supports our shared journey to reduce carbon in our industry, never stands still.
With the help of Shell Bitumen, Aggregate Industries has developed SuperLow-Carbon; the innovative next step on the carbon reduction journey.
The evolution began by reducing the embodied carbon footprint of our asphalts: improving production processes, using alternative energy sources, and mixing at reduced temperatures. In SuperLow-Carbon, we have gone even further, including a biogenic material within the bitumen that effectively locks carbon within the asphalt rather than releasing it back into the atmosphere.
The use of these biogenic components in SuperLow-Carbon means that CO2 remains within the asphalt even when it is recycled, creating a carbon sink.
SuperLow-Carbon Specifications
Key mechanical properties are equivalent to hot mix version of the product; (see individual technical data sheets for each product).
The biogenic component of the mixture is oil based and therefore in effect it "cuts back" penetration grade bitumen.
Currently the hardest pen grade readily available is 70/100pen. Softer grades are available.
Combined with high RA contents (>30%) a base 40/60pen may be possible (talk to Tech Man)
Superlow-Carbon binder has the same shelf life as regular bitumen
PMB grades are available only request.
A590 Cross-a-Moor improvement scheme with National Highways and AE Yates.
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Asphalt Products
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Note - Our calculation tool factors in a minimum level of required asphalt to avoid wastage. You may want to allow for a 5% margin to cover additional needs.
