Enrobés à Module Élevé Classe 2 (EME2) is a French high modulus hot mix asphalt technology enabling a reduction in asphalt thicknesses for heavy duty pavements with lower construction and maintenance work.

Uncovered during recent knowledge exchange exercises with global partners, EME2 demonstrates the value of collaboration and idea sharing amongst industry.

“We’ve been looking overseas for new technologies, and EME2 is one that’s been working and looks really promising,” said Bevan Sullivan, Fulton Hogan’s National Technical Manager. “This design is new to Australia, but has been proven in Europe and the South Pacific. “It’s got the potential to save money… lower thickness can give the same capacity through a more optimal mix design.”

Putting knowledge into practical application, Fulton Hogan working with Road and Maritime Services (RMS),  led a recent demonstration of EME2 at Shellharbour, situated immediately south of Wollongong on the NSW South Coast. The team laid 340 tonnes of EME2 at midnight on Monday 8 February 2016, which was mixed at Fulton Hogan’s Kembla Grange plant.

In keeping with the collaboration mindset, all major asphalt producers were invited to attend through the Australian Asphalt Pavement Association. “Quite a few turned up in the middle of the night to have a look,” said Richard Jenkins, Fulton Hogan Divisional Manager – Metro NSW. “The exercise went as smoothly and seamlessly as it possibly could, a real credit to the team at the plant and the laying crew.”

Also on hand in Shellharbour was Richard Fulton, Fulton Hogan GM Planning & Development, who noted the importance of having a perpetual pavement option for customers to consider.

“EME2 can last longer, is stiffer and requires less asphalt in most cases; something that’s really appealing to the market,” said Richard. “It will be really interesting to see the future for EME2 in Australia. We will be working with RMS to monitor the performance of the road surface. The results could firm up EME2 as an option for NSW.”