PolyCon is looking to green the paving industry with its E-Krete “polymer composite micro-overlay,” a concrete/high-strength composite coating that bonds to an asphalt surface to repair it and protect it from the elements, increasing its surface life span and eliminating the need to resurface every six to eight years, according to the firm.Unlike asphalt, whose surface binders wear away after exposure to UV rays, water, freeze/thaw, and vehicle chemicals, E-Krete is only affected by traffic wear—and as such is said to last more than 20 years. Polycon-certified contractors apply E-Krete over asphalt without heat, and no milling or surface prep (beyond blowing off dust and debris) is required.

The overlay is recognized by the EPA’s Design for Environment program. In addition to eliminating the heat and material waste of asphalt repaving, E-Krete contains no polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and its reflective properties help lower roadway temperature by 12 degrees.

PolyCon president and E-Krete inventor Jack H. Wilson, a 40-year contracting veteran, says that with rising oil and, subsequently, asphalt prices, E-Krete now costs up to 50% less than traditional asphalt resurfacing, not counting savings brought on by a reduction in resurfacings over time.

Though E-Krete is mainly attractive to highway departments and airports, the product also can be used for residential developments and driveways. It comes with a 10-year manufacturing defect warranty.For more information, including an installation video, visit PolyCon’s Web site.