Roads Built with Recycled Tire Rubber Might Last Longer

Rubber from used tires acts like sunscreen for roads and halves the rate of sun damage when mixed with bitumen, new research has found.

Engineers at RMIT University in Australia have discovered a bitumen blend that is both UV-resistant and withstands traffic loads, with the potential to save governments millions on road maintenance annually.

Unlike much outdoor infrastructure – such as playground equipment and outdoor furniture – roads are not designed with any sun protection, making them prone to cracking and potentially unsafe to drive on.

Incorporating recycled rubber …