New technology strengthens roads, halves costs

A NANOTECHNOLOGY road trial has been completed by the City of Ballarat to create more durable roads.

The nanotechnology stabilising agent was used as part of a 1.6-kilometre road reconstruction of Gillies Road between Jubilee Road and Millers Road

The site’s clay-based soil was mixed with liquid stabilisation agent which strengthens the soil at a molecular level.

The technique is designed to help roads better withstand increased traffic and harsh weather conditions.

“Ballarat is proud to be leading the way in adopting new technology that delivers real value for our community,” mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said.

“This nanotechnology will extend the lifespan of our roads and help us use resources more efficiently, reduce maintenance costs and also lower our environmental impact.”

The nanotechnology also more than halves construction costs.

“This nanotechnology reduces the pavement depth required from between 250 and 350 milimetres – less than half the depth of a conventional 700 milimetre road,” City of Ballarat director infrastructure and environment Bridget Wetherall said.

“It also delivers a road with a bearing capacity between five and 10 times’ stronger than that of a conventional road.”

The broader use of the technology across the region will be explored by the City of Ballarat.

It is non-toxic and environmentally sustainable.