WAM: low temperature, low energy asphalt production

In recent years there has been a growing interest around the world in producing asphalt at lower temperatures in order to reduce the amount of energy consumed during the production process and to achieve handling, workability benefits and extended cartage times to site. Whilst some alternative production methods for lower temperature asphalt have been in existence for many years, recent developments in asphalt manufacturing techniques could lead to a broad classification of four groups according to production temperature. Hot mixed asphalt provides the benchmark in terms of physical and performance properties and asphalt from any alternative means of production must at least replicate the characteristics of conventional manufacture. The application of new technologies within the asphalt industry has allowed this challenge to be addressed and the increasing use of these new techniques is illustrative of the industry's desire to demonstrably portray a greener image. This paper deals with the WAM-Foam technology developed by Shell and documents examples of both the engineering benefits for the producer and asset owner as well as the environmental benefits to the community at large. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E216180.