A new concept design which uses recycled plastic waste to develop roads instead of asphalt will go on trial next year.

The PlasticRoad scheme was first introduced in 2015 by KWS, a subsidiary of VolkerWessels. The company has now signed a cooperation agreement with Wavin and Total to develop the first prototype by the end of 2017.

The method involves recycling plastic waste into lightweight modules with hollow interiors that can be fitted with cables and plastic pipes and allow excess water to drain. Each pre-fabricated unit is easy to transport, assemble and maintain, with its light weight meaning the ground will be less prone to subsidence.

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Overall, the aim is to create a route with a smaller ecological footprint than traditional road systems. The units can be recycled again once they reach their life expectancy.

PlasticRoad inventors, Anne Koudstaal and Simon Jorritsma, stated: "Together with Wavin and Total, we now have a vast pool of knowledge, experience and resources, and can take concrete steps in the development of PlasticRoad. We expect to have a first prototype completed by year-end 2017."

Xavier Bontemps, Senior Vice President for Total's Polymers Business Unit, said: "We are delighted to be working on this promising flagship project and to share our expertise in polymer solutions and recycling processes. This agreement is aligned with our commitment to using renewable and recycled sources and reducing the carbon footprint for the markets we serve."

(LM/MH)