A rubber pavement made of recycled tyres combined with additives, that allow it to self-regenerate upon contact with water, has won Mexico’s James Dyson Award.
The self-repairing or self-regenerating rubber pavement, invented by Mexican student Israel Antonio Briseño Carmona, offers a solution to the problem of rainwater damage to streets which results in potholes and cracks.
Israel Antonio Briseño Carmona said: “Damage is caused by rain filtering to the base of pavements, weakening it and creating subsidence. This is how the idea that turning the greatest degradation agent into a recovery agent was born.
“I was inspired to solve the problem that every time it rains in my city pavement gets damaged and it takes a lot of time to maintain a damaged street. I am determined to create a pavement capable of withstanding the rain.”
The regeneration is enabled due to a putty that is created when rubber and additives are mixed. When this putty is in contact with the water, it creates calcium silicates which is one of the components of the regeneration and fixes any cracks.
Israel Antonio Briseño Carmona’s winning invention initially used asphalt and other additives. He was inpired to use recycled materials such as tyres which would otherwise end up in landfills. He explained: “When I observed the possibility of using rubber tires that contaminate our cities I was determined to improve my project.”
The inventor, who is looking into having the material certified for use in Mexico, wants to start his own construction company to be able to implement his invention.
Rosa Medea is Life & Soul Magazine’s Chief. She writes about lifestyles including sustainable and green living. She also offers content services to businesses and individuals at Rosamedea.com
Life & Soul Magazine 