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Brazilian researchers have developed a sustainable asphalt mix by substituting a portion of conventional mineral filler with sugarcane bagasse ash—the fine, silica-rich residue produced when sugarcane processing by-product is combusted for energy. In laboratory and real-world assessments, replacing roughly 5 percent of aggregate stone dust with bagasse ash yielded pavements that met all technical standards while exhibiting enhanced rutting resistance and durability. This approach not only diverts millions of tonnes of agricultural waste from landfills but also cuts the carbon footprint of road surfacing by reducing the demand for virgin mineral materials.
Following successful pilot sections, state and federal transportation agencies across Brazil have begun integrating bagasse-ash asphalt into their resurfacing and new-build programs. With the country generating over three million tonnes of bagasse ash annually, large-scale adoption could transform sugarcane waste into a valuable infrastructure resource. Early highway trials indicate that this “sweet” asphalt solution can lower material costs, reduce environmental impact, and support Brazil’s dual goals of sustainable agriculture and resilient transportation networks.
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