TECHTalk: Plastic Roads

Imagine there was a more durable alternative to asphalt that could be used for the construction of roads. Dutch construction company VolkerWessels plans to use recycled plastic, as it’s more sustainable and practical than the traditional tar option. Plastic has better thermal properties and is able to withstand a wider temperature range without cracking or deforming.

Further advantages include the theoretical pre-assembly of the plastic sections to speed up construction, while cavities in the plastic road can be used to accommodate piping or cabling. This concept is still in the prototype phase, but the city of Rotterdam has already shown interest in a trial project.