Redcar council first to use graphene technology for roads | Darlington and Stockton Times

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has partnered with Universal Matter and Tarmac to implement graphene-enhanced asphalt in the resurfacing of Locke Road, marking one of the first commercial applications of this technology in the UK. Graphene, a carbon-based advanced material, is integrated into asphalt to enhance its durability against traffic and weather conditions.

Approximately 260 tonnes of graphene-enhanced asphalt were applied over 2,300 square meters of road surface. Universal Matter, the technology's developer, reports that independent tests indicate the potential for increased road surface longevity compared to traditional asphalt.

Councillor Carl Quartermain, cabinet member for highways and transport at Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, expressed pride in adopting this innovative material, emphasizing the need for durable road surfaces due to increased traffic volumes and heavier vehicles. The council aims to explore new materials that could improve road durability and offer better long-term value for taxpayers.

The project reflects the council's commitment to innovative road maintenance solutions amid rising traffic levels and budget constraints. Universal Matter UK Managing Director Andy Gent praised the council's leadership in advancing from trial phases to a commercial road scheme.

Ian Carr, Tarmac's regional technical manager, highlighted the collaboration with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council and Universal Matter as an opportunity to validate the technology in a real-world setting, contributing to the development of more resilient road surfaces. The company is engaging with other local authorities in the North East to explore further applications of this technology.