Recycled Plastic Technology in Paving Embraced by City

Rhea-AI Summary

Kao Specialties Americas has launched NEWTLAC 5000, a revolutionary asphalt additive made from recycled PET plastic, enhancing durability by nearly five times that of traditional asphalt. Adopted by Iwata City in Japan, this technology not only repurposes discarded plastic but also addresses environmental concerns by reducing pavement repair needs and improving road safety. The use of NEWTLAC 5000 can reuse around 15,000 bottles per 1,000 m², aligning with Kao’s sustainability goals. This innovation aims to create safer, more sustainable roadways globally.

Positive

• The introduction of NEWTLAC 5000 enhances asphalt durability by nearly 5 times.
• Utilizing approximately 15,000 discarded PET bottles per 1,000 m² of pavement supports sustainability.
• The technology reduces the number of repairs needed and lowers life cycle costs for road maintenance.
• Improves road safety by enhancing visibility of road markings and reducing asphalt dust.

Negative

• None.

HIGHPOINT, N.C., July 21, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A newly developed technology that will "pave" the way to sustainability has been adopted by Iwata City, a growing city in Japan. Kao Specialties Americas, a US subsidiary of Tokyo-based Kao Corporation, announced this year the revolutionary technology that incorporates recycled PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic and makes asphalt nearly 5 times more durable than traditional asphalt in the paving industry. NEWTLAC 5000 quickly grabbed the attention of city officials that have now used the new additive made from discarded PET plastic, like clear single use water bottles, to repair roads. A popular Japan-based pharmacy chain, Welcia, also used NEWTLAC 5000 to pave their parking lot. Click here to watch the process of making NEWTLAC 5000 and the Welcia paving project.

Kao launches a revolutionary technology that incorporates recycled PET and makes asphalt nearly 5 times more durable.

A new market for recycled material

Finding a new use for PET plastic can divert millions of tons of plastic from landfills globally. For instance, a 1000 m2 surface area with NEWTLAC reuses approximately 15,000 discarded PET bottles. This unique way of thinking drives Kao's goal to support sustainable lifestyles throughout the world with "positive recycling"—creating a new market for recycled materials.

"Kao Corporation will continue to contribute to the preservation of our environment and the realization of safer, more sustainable societies by launching this technology", said Masahiro Katayose, Executive Officer, President, Chemical Business at Kao. "The challenge now is to find partners that share the same values and goals to help us spread this benefit globally, including the U.S., Europe and Asia."

Safer, more sustainable societies

In addition to utilizing recycled materials, NEWTLAC has been shown to improve the durability, oil resistance, and water resistance of the pavement, which is expected to reduce the number of repairs and the pavement life cycle cost. Studies have also shown it can reduce generation of asphalt dust, a growing environmental concern. Even driving safety is improved since road lines are more visible on the pavement because it better retains its darkness. Kao believes that spreading this forward-thinking technology globally will help any organization improve road safety, save money by avoiding re-paving, and create more sustainable societies in roadways, parking lots or any paved area.

About Kao

Kao creates high-value-added products in its chemical division, which contributes to a wide range of industries, and enriches the lives of consumers around the world through its portfolio of many leading brands, such as Attack, Bioré, Goldwell, Jergens, John Frieda, Kanebo, Laurier, Merries, and Molton Brown.  Kao has 130 years of history in innovation, generating $12.9 Billion in annual sales, and employs ~33,000 people worldwide. In 2019, Kao announced The Kirei Lifestyle Plan, a vision that aims to make life beautiful by serving sustainable lifestyles all over the world.

Please visit the Kao Group website:  https://www.kao.com/global/en/

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SOURCE Kao Specialties Americas LLC

FAQ

What is NEWTLAC 5000 and how does it benefit asphalt?

NEWTLAC 5000 is an asphalt additive made from recycled PET plastic that improves durability by nearly 5 times, reduces repair needs, and enhances road safety.

Which city has adopted Kao's NEWTLAC 5000 technology?

Iwata City in Japan has adopted the NEWTLAC 5000 technology for road repairs.

How many discarded PET bottles are reused per square meter with NEWTLAC 5000?

Approximately 15,000 discarded PET bottles are reused for every 1,000 m² of surface area paved with NEWTLAC 5000.

What environmental benefits does NEWTLAC 5000 provide?

NEWTLAC 5000 helps divert millions of tons of plastic from landfills, reduces asphalt dust generation, and lowers maintenance costs.

What are the future plans for NEWTLAC 5000 technology?

Kao aims to find global partners to expand the use of NEWTLAC 5000, promoting sustainable practices in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.