Alternative asphalt pavements

This report investigates the possibility to use non-petroleum based adhesive (biobitumen) in asphalt. The main reasons for replacing bitumen are the fact that oil prices are rising, the threat of peak oil and the fact that the asphalt industry is becoming more environmentally friendly. The main purpose of this report is to investigate whether there are any non-petroleum based adhesives on the market. If so, how can they be used? The questions covered are: • Are there any other alternative asphalt coatings available? • Can bio-oils be used in asphalt? • If the bio-oils can be used, what are the details their properties? • How does a cold climate affect the bio binders? • What is the Swedish asphalt industry’s opinion about bio asphalt? The project was concluded through literature studies, consultations with people in the asphalt industry and through several interviews. The conclusion of this report is that there are some existing non-petroleum based adhesives on the market. They are mainly used for bike paths, sidewalks and parkareas. The biggest problem for greater use is the fact that it is expensive and performance in cold climate is unknown. The study indicates that Sweden could have a new potential industry in the field of producing bio-adhesives from both wood and waste from paper industr