Zimbabwe launched a project that will change how roads are built. The Coal Tar Project comes from teamwork between the transport ministry, the Research Council of Zimbabwe, and Midlands State University. They created a local road binder instead of using imported bitumen. Tests will start soon on the Kwekwe-Gokwe Road.
The new material mixes crude tar from Hwange with recycled fibers from Shabanie-Mashava mines. It costs only 70 cents per liter compared to $2.50 for imported options. Lab tests show it has 50 percent more strength than regular materials. The binder can handle temperatures up to 90 degrees Celsius, which helps roads last longer in hot weather.
The ZIMCHEM plant produces 150 tonnes monthly and already supplies materials for road work. The project creates jobs around Redcliff and Zvishavane. The binder resists cracking better than traditional options. Road officials plan to use it to fix potholes and recycle old asphalt, which will save money on repairs.
The new material mixes crude tar from Hwange with recycled fibers from Shabanie-Mashava mines. It costs only 70 cents per liter compared to $2.50 for imported options. Lab tests show it has 50 percent more strength than regular materials. The binder can handle temperatures up to 90 degrees Celsius, which helps roads last longer in hot weather.
The ZIMCHEM plant produces 150 tonnes monthly and already supplies materials for road work. The project creates jobs around Redcliff and Zvishavane. The binder resists cracking better than traditional options. Road officials plan to use it to fix potholes and recycle old asphalt, which will save money on repairs.
