3rd International Workshop on the Use of Biomaterials in Pavements
University Gustave Eiffel - Nantes Campus
7th and 8th July 2026
Organized by Gustave Eiffel and Nantes Universities
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About the workshop The interest in the use of bio-based materials for road pavements, as an alternative to mineral oil-based materials, has increasingly grown in the last decades. These alternative materials coming from renewable sources can have different roles in pavement materials, from binder function to rejuvenation effect. The aim of the workshop is to share experience in the use of this type of material to advance scientific knowledge, and encourage the transfer and the application of this knowledge worldwide. The final purpose is to create a scientific community of experts and interested people on this recently emerged topic. Both short papers (up to 6 pages) and abstracts are accepted. Short papers will be published in the proceedings. This will be a HYBRID EVENT but presenters need to attend the workshop in person. Why joining? Like all other large industries, the road construction sector has to move towards more sustainable manufacturing technologies. One possible solution is to replace conventional mineral oil-based binders and additives by bio-based ones. Every day, researchers worldwide publish an increasing number of studies. Various experiments have already been undertaken: in lab, at full-scale, on field, using local biomass, employing different ways and processes to adapt these biomaterials to road material specifications. Now is the time to share experiments to compare solutions, understand the limitations and hopes arising from this new way of thinking about road construction technology. We propose to run up a collaborative platform dedicated to biomaterials in road construction. The 3rd International Workshop on the Use of Biomaterials in Pavements will be the opportunity for that. We aim at creating, during the workshop, a fruitful environment to discuss and confront approaches. As an outcome of the workshop, a white paper or roadmap will be published, putting together and summarizing all the contributions, discussions, and conclusions obtained during the development of the workshop, aiming at being the reference document for the use of biomaterials in pavements for the next decades. Participants will receive certificates of attendance. If you are working or are interested on this topic, you cannot miss the opportunity to be part of this community! Key themes and topics 1. Bio-Based Binders and Additives: Delve into the advancements in using bio-based binders and additives derived from plant oils, bio-resins, and other organic sources as alternatives to conventional petroleum-based binders. Discover their potential to improve pavement properties while reducing environmental impact. 2. Natural Fibers and Reinforcements: Explore the utilization of natural fibers like jute, coir, and bamboo as reinforcements in pavements. Understand how these biomaterials contribute to enhanced pavement strength, durability, and sustainability, promoting a shift towards eco-friendly construction practices. 3. Recycled Biomass and Waste Materials: Investigate the incorporation of recycled biomass and waste materials, such as rice husk ash, coconut shell ash, and recycled plastics, in pavement construction. Uncover how these materials contribute to sustainability, waste reduction, and improved pavement characteristics. 4. Soil Stabilization: Discuss the application of biomaterials, including bacteria and fungi, for soil stabilization in pavement construction. Explore their potential to enhance soil properties, improve compaction, and mitigate soil erosion, thereby ensuring a more robust and sustainable pavement foundation. 5. Environmental Impact and Sustainability Assessment: Deliberate on the broader environmental impact of integrating biomaterials into pavements. Explore methodologies for assessing and mitigating the environmental footprint associated with the production, use, and disposal of biomaterial-enhanced pavements. 6. Recyclability and Circular Economy: Discuss strategies and technologies for enhancing the recyclability of biomaterial-based pavements, contributing to a circular economy. Explore the potential for reusing and repurposing biomaterials within the pavement lifecycle. 7. Testing Methods and Performance Evaluation: Address the crucial aspect of testing methods and performance evaluation specific to biomaterials in pavements. Highlight innovative testing techniques and protocols that ensure the quality, safety, and durability of biomaterial-enhanced pavements. 8. Biomass thermochemical conversion: Investigate the possibility to transform Biomass using thermochemical process to reach certain functionalities (binder, additive ...) |
