Understanding why asphalt pavements breakdown provides valuable insights into the development of products and maintenance protocols for maintaining the pavement and consequently prolonging pavement life.

One of the common culprits of premature aging in asphalt pavements is ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light damages molecules (via ‘oxidation’) that provide elasticity and hence flexibility in the pavement. When enough flexibility has been lost due to this damage then small ‘cracks’ (‘microcracking’) begin to form in the ‘mat’. As traffic and UV light progress this damage, microcracks give way to larger cracks, eventually permitting water to penetrate the mat and soften the structural base supporting the mat. In this way, potholes and other forms of pavement deterioration can occur. The use of ‘surface treatments’ which provide a protective coating to the surface of the pavement is an accepted traditional practice for achieving longevity with flexible pavements. Traditional treatments have either been ‘coal tar’ based (which has been recognised as being highly toxic in modern times) or emulsion (water) based. The problem with emulsion treatments is that they do not bond with the underlying pavement and consequently wear/weather away relatively quickly.

The perfect solution for Protection and Rejuvenation

Pavement Rejuvenation Seal (PRS) seals, protects and rejuvenates flexible pavements. Unlike emulsion type coatings, PRS penetrates beneath the surface of the mat and bonds with the underlying asphalt through copolymer bonds (chemical anchors). PRS effectively doubles the expected life span of new asphalt if applied shortly after the new asphalt is placed. When applied to an existing weathered pavement, PRS seals in the stones and rejuvenates the aged binder; improving and preserving the pavement. PRS may also be applied to compacted earth or compacted engineered granular material to provide a rapid and durable seal and 'wearing course'.

Features and Benefits

◼ Replaces aromatic hydrocarbons lost due to oxidation
◼ Seals the pavement against UV and contaminants
◼ Revitalizes the asphalt binder
◼ Restores flexibility