Scientists Are Engineering Asphalt That Is Safer for Humans and the Environment
Researchers in several areas of science and engineering are collaborating to pursue advances that will ensure the asphalt of the future will present few, in any, serious dangers to the health of people and the environment. Among those making progress is Elham Fini (pictured), an associate professor in the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, part of the Fulton Schools. Fini, who also works for ASU’s Center for Sustainable Macromolecular Materials and Manufacturing, is involved in development of a material that binds asphalt and would emit fewer harmful chemicals. The iron-rich material has been shown to significantly reduce emission of volatile organic compounds and also increase the durability of roads.