BENGALURU: Rubber roads in city? Yes, city is getting a rubber layer to prevent surfacing of potholes!
In an attempt to ensure longevity of costly concrete roads, smooth ride and pothole free roads the BBMP is providing tiki tar (a thin rubber layer) to prevent water from percolating. The tiki tar is laid between the concrete surface and the bitumen concrete, said BBMP chief engineer (roads infrastructure).
It acts as an adhesive or better bonding agent between the bitumen and the concrete as the bitumen does not bond well with the concrete surface. The tiki tar prevents water percolation and asphalt getting worn out.
Even when it rains heavily the water does not reach the concrete surface. Constant percolation of water damages concrete surface too, he explained.
This technology was used on the Richmond Circle flyover one-and-a-half years ago and the road is still in good condition. Currently, a similar technique is being used at Madivala where white topping is provided. The technology is used at highways and bridges where white topping is provided.
White topping project contractor M. Nagesh told Deccan Chronicle that the tiki tar has been brought from Gujarat. It costs Rs 450 per sq. mtr and acts as a membrane between the concrete surface and the asphalt.
If bitumen concrete is laid directly above the concrete surface the road does not last long. Further, the bitumen gets worn out and leads to bumpy ride and damages the concrete surface too.
The tiki tar lasts at least for five years and helps the motorists with smooth ride, Nagesh added. The rubber sheets are heated and rolled on the concrete surface before laying bitumen. Although the rubber layer is not visible, it provides cushioning to motorists.
