New technology can help maintain roads, repair potholes – new video uploaded to AP Video Hub

In the video, she explains how sensors and self-healing concrete will help maintain the roads of tomorrow. All videos in the Campus Insights series are free for download and use by all AP members and can be found at apvideohub.ap.org or by doing a general search on the Associated Press site. AP members may use the video or to pull quotes for print article or for broadcast or podcast.

STORYLINE:

With spring break travel season upon the United States, many will hit the road, only to encounter potholes caused by repeated freezing and thawing. In some cases, these potholes can cause major damage to vehicles. Lu says that newly constructed or repaired roads are often opened to heavy traffic too early, causing premature damage to roadways. To combat this, concrete sensors can be installed to measure when the road is ready for traffic without causing premature damage. These sensors can also be used to determine when the pavement is losing strength and needs to be replaced. Self-healing concrete is another technology being developed that will help roadways. Lu says that nanoparticles are introduced into the concrete, and they react to the cement to produce a gel-like substance that can repair cracks.