In 2024, Sunshine Coast Council launched a demonstration project to test the use of off-the-road (OTR) tyre-derived crumb rubber in road construction and repairs. Now, 12 months on, the results are in—and they reveal a promising future for this innovative material.

The project not only confirmed that crumb rubber from OTR tyres can replace traditional crumb rubber in bitumen blends and asphalt mixes, but also provided valuable technical data on performance, constructability, and durability. The findings offer a roadmap for councils across Australia to adopt this untapped resource and build longer-lasting, cost-effective roads.

The trial, conducted across Railway Parade (Glass House Mountains), Spalls Road (Diddillibah), and Perlan Street (Nambour), has confirmed the viability of this innovative material for improving road durability and performance.

Recycled rubber from OTR tyres, commonly used in mining and agriculture, was tested as a substitute for traditional crumb rubber in asphalt mixes. The findings demonstrate that OTR crumb rubber can be effectively integrated into road construction, with improved lifecycle performance and reduced maintenance requirements.

Led by Tyre Stewardship Australia (TSA) and the Australian Flexible Pavement Association (AfPA), the project was delivered in collaboration with Sunshine Coast Council, RMIT University, Boral, Carroll Engineering Services, and Puma Bitumen. The trial provides councils across Australia with valuable technical data to inform future use of OTR crumb rubber in road construction.

Key Findings:

  • Durability: OTR crumb rubber-modified bitumen showed improved resistance to UV ageing and cracking, enhancing road longevity.
  • Constructability: The trial confirmed that OTR crumb rubber can be used in asphalt production without significant process adjustments.
  • Circular Economy Outcomes: By sourcing and processing tyres locally, the project created a closed-loop system, addressing a waste challenge while generating new economic opportunities.

This trial provides a pathway for councils and industry to explore OTR crumb rubber in future projects, contributing to improved road infrastructure and waste management solutions.

Read the full TSA's media release to learn more.