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Highways: Rejuvetech Ltd- Transforming Asphalt Repair with Green Chemistry

As a company we also develop our own technologies; and in this instance we are seeking to redefine asphalt repair by developing our own innovative nitrogen blanket technology. This case study looks at our journey and assesses the impact that this technology has to offer.

The Challenge: Potholes. A national epidemic: a constant nuisance, the plague roads, damage vehicles, and cost the taxpayer millions. Traditional repairs have a relatively short life span due to oxidation and weather infiltration, leading to a vicious cycle of damage, patch repair, repeat.

Solution: Rejuvetech’s patented asphalt repair technology utilizing a nitrogen blanket for inert atmospheric conditions during repair. This innovative approach minimises oxidation, resulting in;

  • Superior, longer lasting repairs: Reduced freeze-thaw damage and weather penetration, extending repair lifespan.
  • Minimal air voids: The technique melds and bonds the old and new asphalt creating a seamless repair with minimal channelling underneath the surface, preventing weather penetration and water ingress which leads to the freeze-thaw cycle.
  • Cost Savings: Utilising atmospheric nitrogen (no need for cylinders), recycles old in situ asphalt reducing need for new material, can be powered on electric or hydrogen with low energy requirements, reduces the frequency and cost of the pothole repairs, saving the taxpayer money and the reduction in fossil fuel materials.
  • Sustainable: The final development and testing of the equipment will seek to confirm the low carbon and highly sustainable aspects of the nitrogen technique with the objective of assisting in the decarbonisation of the highways sector.

Technical Innovation:

  • Alpha Demonstrator Stage: Developed a full-sized prototype to demonstrate the technology’s potential.
  • Versatile: Capable of being retro-fitted onto existing equipment, the asphalt repair technology can be scaled for potholes, crack joints and larger surfacing repairs. It also has other applications such as white lining removal capability which will not damage the road surface as much as more traditional techniques.
  • Global Patent Protection: Secured patents in 28 countries with others pending demonstrating the technology’s novelty and potential market reach.
  • Green Chemistry and Engineering: Utilizes sustainable practices and materials, minimizing environmental impact.

Societal Impact:

  • Sustainable Solution: Addresses a major infrastructure challenge with a long-term environmentally friendly approach.
  • Economic benefits: Reduces repair costs, saving taxpayers money on the national bill, and less vehicle repairs on a personal level, improves safety for cyclists and as a new business with export potential can contribute to economic growth by providing green jobs.
  • Sector-Agnostic Application: Demonstrates how green chemistry can solve problems beyond its traditional domain.

Key Achievements:

  • Micro Company Success: Transitioned an idea from lab concept to a full-scale demonstrator, a significant feat for a small company.
  • Patented technology: Secured intellectual property protection, positioning the company for future partnerships and commercialisation.
  • Green Approach: Developed a solution that addresses both infrastructure needs and environmental concerns.

Future Outlook:

  • Partnering with key stakeholders. Engaging with government agencies, construction companies and investors (both in the UK and abroad) to bring the technology to market.
  • Scaling up production: Transitioning from demonstrator stage to commercial-scale production.
  • Continuous Innovation: Further refining the technology and exploring new applications.

Conclusion: Rejuvetech’s asphalt repair technology showcases the power of green chemistry in tackling societal challenges. By combining innovative technology with sustainable practices, the company has developed a solution that benefits both infrastructure and the environment. This case study demonstrates the potential of this technology to revolutionize asphalt repair and contribute to a sustainable future.