Kao Industrial (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a top Japanese producer of consumer and chemical goods, has joined forces with the Faculty of Engineering at Chiang Mai University to introduce the ‘Green Pavement’ project on campus. This effort highlights Kao’s groundbreaking NEWTLAC technology, which transforms discarded PET plastic bottles into a chemical component for asphalt, enhancing road resilience, robustness, and ecological friendliness. Kao provided financial support and materials valued at 1,230,000 THB to aid in the development, underscoring the company’s dedication to minimizing plastic waste and advancing sustainable resource management in Thailand.
Mrs. Narumol Nakakes, the Vice President of Chemical Sales and Marketing at Kao Industrial (Thailand) Co., Ltd., said, ‘Our collaboration with the Faculty of Engineering at Chiang Mai University on the Green Pavement initiative is a significant achievement for Kao. It effectively brings our NEWTLAC technology to life in a substantial manner and is in line with our zero-waste approach. This project demonstrates that used PET plastic bottles can be converted into valuable, long-lasting, and secure infrastructure.’
Studies conducted by Kao Corporation in Japan indicate that 100 square meters of NEWTLAC-impregnated pavement can process as many as 1,430 PET bottles. This trial road serves as a strong example, opening the door to more sustainable infrastructure projects throughout Thailand.
The Green Pavement initiative features a prototype section of porous asphalt road that incorporates Kao’s NEWTLAC 5510 technology. This groundbreaking material is created by chemically treating used PET plastic bottles into a fine, yellow powder similar to granulated sugar. When combined with conventional asphalt, it forms a highly resilient, water-resistant surface that greatly increases the road’s longevity. With Kao contributing 1.23 million baht in funding and materials, the project involved the renovation of a 469-meter roadway, covering over 3,000 square meters within Chiang Mai University. A total of 1.3 tonnes of NEWTLAC was utilized, recycling 18,909 PET bottles, resulting in an eco-friendly road that offers structural strength, superior water permeability, and preservation of the campus’s existing ecosystem.
Associate Professor Dr. Thongchai Fongsamootr, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Chiang Mai University, stated, ‘The Faculty of Engineering is dedicated to becoming a top institution in advancing research and innovation for sustainable infrastructure. We are pleased to collaborate with Kao on the Green Pavement project, which is part of our larger initiative called ‘Plastic Road Pavement from Kao NEWTLAC as Recycled PET Product.’ This project not only tackles important issues in civil and environmental engineering but also acts as a ‘Living Lab,’ allowing students and faculty to work with real-world applications of alternative materials. The road’s strength, resilience, and superior water absorption, combined with its ability to protect mature trees and the natural environment of our campus, highlight its potential as a model for sustainable development in Thailand.’
The Green Pavement at Chiang Mai University represents the third practical application of Kao’s NEWTLAC technology. Previous trials were conducted at two different locations: a 500-square-metre area at Amata City Industrial Estate in Chonburi, and a 1,500-square-metre section at the Din Daeng toll plaza on the Don Mueang Tollway’s inbound lanes, including both inner and outer roads. The ongoing success at all three locations highlights Kao’s strong dedication to sustainable innovation and providing lasting environmental advantages for Thai communities.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
