Expanded use of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) is increasing in importance as more local authorities and government departments seek sustainable and cost-effective paving technologies. Discussions on the topic are widespread as regional associations come together to explore solutions that meet agency specifications while remaining environmentally responsible. This includes exploration of how asphalt rejuvenators can be used in effective mix design.  

 

This was indicative of the agenda for the Mineral Products Association Northern Ireland (MPANI) meeting held Tuesday, May 6, 2025. The program included in-depth conversation around the use of RAP to reduce the need for virgin aggregate and binder in asphalt mixes to lower costs and carbon emissions. Krishna Srinivasan, President of Sripath Technologies, and Herbert Micallef, Technical Consultant, presented on “Maximizing RAP Utilization with ReLIXER.” 

 

The program provided a comprehensive look at the historical context and use of RAP throughout the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland as well as current industry challenges impacting asphalt production. Srinivasan and Micallef explained the economic and market forces impacting feasibility of RAP utilization such as increasing demand for sustainability and the volatility impacting mix costs.  

 

Attendees also learned about the key role an asphalt rejuvenator plays in RAP integration. While aggregates do not change with age, the binder within RAP oxidizes over time, changing it both physically and chemically. As a result, an effective asphalt rejuvenator is needed to restore the functional properties of the aged binder and help the material perform to specification within a mix.  

 

Sripath’s ReLIXER® is an effective asphalt rejuvenator formulated from a blend of green bio-based oils sourced from crops that do not impact food sources. The result is an environmentally friendly recycling agent that enables higher RAP incorporation while also helping lower greenhouse gas emissions and overall carbon emissions. ReLIXER is also highly dosage efficient, easy to incorporate into plant production, and works with a wide range of bitumen and RAP around the world.  

 

The MPANI meeting was a productive session that brought together key stakeholders from across Northern Ireland’s mineral products sector, a critical component of the country’s road network maintenance and development. MPANI is dedicated to responsible sourcing of aggregate and other mineral extraction activities, with Northern Ireland functioning as a key supplier of aggregate for road infrastructure projects across the country as well as throughout the United Kingdom and Europe.  

 

The entire Sripath team was grateful for the opportunity to meet with the MPANI event attendees and looks forward to continued discussions.  

 

For more information about ReLIXER and Sripath Innovation’s work throughout Europe, contact info@sripathinnovations.com