How ROAD MASTER, an ionic soil stabiliser, works
Most of the fine particles in materials used in pavement construction for Roads and Airports are clays and silts. The clay platelets are very special because they have a dual ionic or electrical charge. The rim of each platelet has a strong negative charge and the centre of each has a very weak positive charge. In a dry environment the negative and positive properties of the clay platelets make them bond to each other in an open lattice that includes many void spaces. The negative charge on each platelet is not wholly balanced by the weak positive charge on one of its neighbours, so that each platelet is still searching for an equalising positive charge. Water is strongly positively charged and when in an area where clay is present, it is drawn to the clay like iron to a magnet. The introduction of water into the delicate lattice of clay platelets destroys the bonds between the platelets, which instead bond to water molecules. As the bonded water content increases, the load bearing strength of the clay decreases. The chemicals in Road Master are designed to create an ionic exchange to negate this natural process. The result is that water attached to the clay particles is forced to separate from the clay as it is replaced by these introduced ions. This water is now free water and can drain off or evaporate. This process is irreversible. The treated clay interlocks into tightly bonded layers, considerably decreasing the percentage of void spaces, so resulting in an increase in strength.
The Results
- Road Master reduces Optimum Moisture Content. Reductions of 1.5% are achievable.
- Road Master greatly reduces expansion and contraction within a pavement.
- Road Master greatly retards the ingress of water. Treated materials become hydrophobic.
- Road Master increases the density of materials.
- Road Master increases pavement durability.
- Road Master increases strength. The increase in California Bearing Ratio is dependent on the properties of the material being used with increases of up to 200% being common.
Why Use Road Master
We have designed our strategy so that our product is extremely competitively priced. This means it can be widely available to a variety of users, including countries with highly developed road infrastructure, as well as nations where road infrastructure is in the process of being developed. Our pricing structure is highly competitive because we transfer the technology to local manufacturers who use locally sourced raw materials. This minimises freight, insurance costs and duties while also boosting local economies.
Our Values
We are responsive to the needs and aspirations of our associates, affiliates, clients, partners, allies and the wider community.
We demonstrate openness and integrity in our dealings both within the organisation and with all our stakeholders.
Tolerance and the acceptance of diversity are hallmarks of our approach.
Our Vision
We make a positive difference to the communities in which we operate.
Our Mission
Our ongoing purpose is to contribute to the social and economic development of communities by assisting them to leverage spending on physical infrastructure.
