In recent years, the reuse of asphalt from road excavation has significantly evolved. No longer considered as waste or slag, recycled asphalt is now being reintegrated into new construction projects. The Shanghai Central Link Project is a prime example, where all recycled heat-recycled materials are used for the middle and lower layers of the road surface. This project is expected to consume approximately 280,000 tons of recycled asphalt materials, showcasing a major shift in sustainable infrastructure development.
Previously, old asphalt mixed with excavated waste was treated as trash, and roads were repaved using new asphalt and stone materials. This process required large quantities of stone from neighboring provinces like Jiangsu and Zhejiang, leading to significant resource consumption and environmental concerns. The disposal of waste asphalt not only increased costs but also caused pollution through rainwater runoff, threatening groundwater quality.
In response, the Shanghai Municipal Government initiated research in the second half of 2002 to develop standards and management regulations for the recycling of used bituminous materials. They established procedures and networks for the reuse of old asphalt. Two main methods are used for producing hot reclaimed mixtures: industrial thermal regeneration and on-site thermal regeneration. Based on Shanghai’s geographical layout, four asphalt manufacturers were selected, and two additional recycling points were added last year. Equipment for industrial thermal recycling was upgraded, allowing construction site waste to be directly transported to factories.
Both indoor and field trials have shown that the technical performance of hot-reclaimed mixtures meets the same specifications as new asphalt materials, with no difference in quality or durability. Since 2003, the Shanghai government has actively promoted the use of recycled asphalt in road construction. Contractors are now required to apply for excavation permits and commit to recycling old materials. Over the years, 380,000 tons of used asphalt and 210,000 tons of old materials have been reused. With a 30% blend of recycled asphalt, over 700,000 tons of heat-reclaimed mixtures have been applied in road projects.
Looking ahead, the city plans to recycle asphalt from large, medium, and small-scale renovation projects. The scope of recycled asphalt usage will continue to expand. The government remains supportive of this initiative, and relevant departments are working on further regulations to govern the recycling and utilization of old road materials. Additionally, thermal recycling companies benefit from preferential tax policies, encouraging more investment in sustainable construction practices.
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