FIBRA

Fostering the implementation of fibre-reinforced asphalt mixtures by ensuring its safe, optimized and cost-efficient use

THE PROJECT

Roads have great importance in the life of millions of citizens by enabling their mobility and by boosting the economic growth. However, maintaining reliable road performances is becoming increasingly difficult and continuous maintenance of roads is required but presents economic, environmental and social impacts. Fostering durable, cost-effective and eco-friendly practices to reduce maintenance and achieve higher service lives seems to be a must.

Different fibres have been studied for improving the sustainability, resilience and durability of the asphalt mixtures. However, despite the research done, there are issues to be considered to move from theory to practice.

The concept of the project lies in the optimal design and full scale production of Fibre-Reinforced Asphalt Mixtures (FRAM) that extend the service life of pavement structures, by considering their long-term performance as well as economic, health, safety and environmental aspects.

To support NRAs in the efficient use of FRAM, the FIBRA consortium will specifically address those issues that may result in uncertainty when considering the use of FRAM in their road network.

Recyclability potential of FRAM has not been investigated. Very little has been done to evaluate the long-term performance both in the laboratory and in the field. Currently, there are gaps concerning the chemical compatibility, interaction and dispersion efficiency of the fibres within the asphalt mixes.

The questions to be resolved in the FIBRA project

  • Different fibres have been analysed over the years. Which is their state of development and implementation?
  • Where should these asphalt mixes been used: Base, binder or surface layers?
  • Which is the best approach, reducing thickness or increasing service life?
  • How much more expensive are these materials? Do they result cost-efficient for the NRAs?
A link between research and industrial activity is needed. Practical recommendations about production and testing are needed to ensure the homogeneous and optimal use of fibres in different plants and by different producers. Safety, environmental and health considerations are needed.

FIBRA IN NUMBERS

645,580€

Euro in budget

Days of work

12

International experts

CEDR Transnational Research Programme

The CEDR Transnational Research Programme was launched by the Conference of European Directors of Roads (CEDR). CEDR is the Road Directors’ platform for cooperation and promotion of improvements to the road system and its infrastructure, as an integral part of a sustainable transport system in Europe. Its members represent their respective National Road Authorities (NRA) or equivalents and provide support and advice on decisions concerning the road transport system that are taken at national or international level.

The participating NRAs in the CEDR Call 2017: New Materials are Austria, Belgium-Flanders, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia, Sweden and the United Kingdom. As in previous collaborative research programmes, the participating members have established a Programme Executive Board (PEB) made up of experts in the topics to be covered. The research budget is jointly provided by the NRAs as listed above.

Know more about the program here