SUMMARY
Researchers at UCLA have identified an ultra-high-toughness nanomolecular resin as a binder for pothole repair material, which dramatically enhances the strength, durability and service life of the asphalt and cement pothole-repair patching practices.
BACKGROUND
The occurrence of potholes on asphalt and cement pavements are long standing issues. Previous repair methods offer only temporary solutions as traffic stress cause a portion or whole block of the repaired material to separate from the original pothole. In order to boost the lifetime of the repaired potholes, it is necessary to employ strong bonding material with high fracture toughness that can absorb energy without breakage.
INNOVATION
Researchers at UCLA have developed a strong bonding polymer that offers a long-term solution to asphalt and cement pothole repair patching material. Because the new polymer has high fracture toughness and impact absorbing ability, it serves as a continuous structural cage material for holding aggregates together even when heavy traffic stresses are applied. Furthermore, due to its adjustable viscosity, the material provides penetration depth control for various applications.
APPLICATIONS
- Pothole repair
- Asphalt
- Cement
ADVANTAGES
- High fracture toughness
- High impact absorbance
- Adjustable viscosity
- Non-toxic and environmentally friendly
- Compatible with pothole repair processes
PATENT STATUS:
United States Of America Issued Patent 9,328,024 05/03/2016