In the heart of Italy, a groundbreaking study led by Luca Cotignoli from the University of Bologna is turning heads in the construction and energy sectors. Cotignoli, an associate professor in the Department of Civil, Chemical, Environmental and Material Engineering, has been exploring innovative ways to make road construction more sustainable and cost-effective. His recent research, published in the *Journal of Road Engineering* (translated from Italian), delves into the world of cold-mix recycling and reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), offering promising insights for the future of urban infrastructure.
The study focuses on the use of 100% RAP in cold mix asphalt (CMA) technologies for bicycle lanes, a sustainable approach that could revolutionize the way cities maintain their roads. Cotignoli and his team compared two cycle paths rehabilitated using different construction technologies: in-plant and in-place recycling techniques. The results are encouraging, demonstrating that high quantities of recycled materials can indeed produce viable solutions for urban soft-mobility.
One of the key findings of the study is the excellent performance of an innovative machine used in the in-place technique. This machine, which excels in milling and mixing, could represent a valid alternative for repaving applications in urban contexts. “The innovative machine used in the in-place technique demonstrated excellent performance in terms of milling and mixing,” Cotignoli noted, highlighting the potential of this technology to reshape the future of road construction.
The study also assessed the skid resistance and physical-mechanical properties of the RAPs used. Using tools like the British pendulum tester (BPT) and Micro GripTester, the team evaluated the frictional characteristics of the materials. Additionally, indirect tensile strength tests (ITS) and Marshall stability tests were performed to analyze the mechanical behavior of the mixtures. The results showed positive outcomes, indicating that RAPs can provide viable characteristics for urban soft-mobility solutions.
The implications of this research are significant for the energy sector, particularly in terms of cost reduction and environmental impact. By using high percentages of RAP in asphalt concrete layers, cities can reduce their reliance on virgin materials, leading to lower costs and a smaller carbon footprint. This sustainable approach not only benefits the environment but also offers economic advantages, making it an attractive option for urban planners and construction companies alike.
As cities around the world strive to become more sustainable, the findings of Cotignoli’s study offer a promising path forward. By embracing innovative technologies and sustainable practices, the construction industry can play a crucial role in reducing environmental impact and promoting urban soft-mobility. The research published in the *Journal of Road Engineering* serves as a testament to the potential of these approaches, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.
In the words of Cotignoli, “The main goal is to determine the frictional, physical and mechanical characteristics of solutions produced by using high quantity of recycled materials.” With this goal in mind, the study not only advances our understanding of sustainable road construction but also sets the stage for future developments in the field. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and resource depletion, the insights gained from this research will be invaluable in shaping the future of urban infrastructure.