A new method to fix potholes is envisaged to have a far-reaching impact on South Africa’s road infrastructure.
This newly developed method, researched by the CiviLab at the Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State, has already been used to improve the appalling conditions of roads in Bloemfontein and Boshoff.
According to Malelo Mweemba, project manager, the method is a time-saving remedy to repair roads damaged by ageing infrastructure and moisture entering the underlying soil layers.
He said the research was prompted by the change in weather and traffic patterns, which are some of the challenges that lead to road erosion.
“The use of the CiviLab’s Road Safe Pothole Repair Project Method has advantages over the current conventional shallow cold mix,” said Mweemba.
“It is affordable, easier to transport onto the site and is more workable. We are also able to teach people how to do it easily. There are no hazardous fumes damaging anybody’s lungs, and nobody getting burned due to its heat. Another advantage is that it is Beta accredited, meaning that we can use it on our roads.”
To date, the CiviLab’s research has focused mainly on the repair of smaller potholes.
“Smaller potholes are usually repaired using cold mix asphalt material,” said Mweemba.
“Larger ones can be repaired more effectively using hot mix asphalt, but we want to veer away from this method.
“Hot mix asphalt is a constant mixed supply that is quite costly in some situations. Because it reaches up to 135 degrees Celsius, it can also be dangerous.”
According to Mweemba, the newly developed method is temporary and cannot yet withstand everyday heavy traffic loads.
“It is affordable and easy to apply, but it is temporary and only lasts a season. Usually, this comes off within about six to three months.”
The CUT’s CiviLab is working with private companies to come up with solutions and perfect its method.
Mweemba described this method as a remedy for roads damaged at depths of 75 mm to 100 mm.
“The CiviLab’s repair method is one of the ways in which the institution continues to use technological solutions to provide a positive social impact in the community.”
