Aston University has teamed up with construction company Miles Macadam to pioneer the development of more sustainable road surfaces through a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP). This collaboration aims to explore the use of biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More as an alternative to fly ashAsh is the non-combustible inorganic residue that remains after organic matter, like wood or biomass, is completely burned. It consists mainly of minerals and is different from biochar, which is produced through incomplete combustion.   Ash Ash is the residue that remains after the complete More, a waste product from coal-fired power stations traditionally used in road surfacing materials. This shift not only aims to reduce CO2 emissions but also lessens the reliance on inconsistent imported materials.

The project involves the creation of grouted macadam—a composite of asphalt and cement—using biochar derived from organic waste like wood or agricultural remnants. This initiative not only promotes the reuse of waste materials, thereby conserving virgin resources, but also aims to decrease production costs. Aston University, renowned for its high rate of successful KTPs rated by Innovate UK, brings substantial expertise to this venture. The project will leverage the university’s advanced environmental testing facilities to simulate real-world conditions such as prolonged freezing and thawing, evaluating the materials for durability and strength under heavy loads.

The partnership is driven by the shared vision of enhancing the sustainability of construction practices. With field tests planned at a Miles Macadam site, the endeavor will assess the real-world efficacy of these innovative materials. This project is a testament to the commitment of both entities to foster a greener future in construction, setting a precedent for integrating environmentally friendly materials into mainstream industrial applications.

By combining the expertise of Aston University’s engineers and the industry experience of Miles Macadam, this initiative not only addresses the immediate needs of sustainable construction but also explores the broader potential applications of biochar in various environmental scenarios. The collaboration is scheduled to continue until July 2026, promising to deliver groundbreaking solutions in sustainable construction materials.

READ MORE: The Role of Biochar in Sustainable Construction