Like much of western society, the U.S. paved highway and road system is heavily dependent on oil.  The asphalt industry, in particular, relies on the oil industry to supply the compounds needed for asphalt road construction.  As oil refiners overhaul equipment to achieve maximum output of highly profitable fossil-based fuels, the asphalt industry is experiencing drastic shortages.

The resulting shortage of asphalt materials has sent shock waves through federal, state, county, and municipal road departments.  Because asphalt is used for more than 90 percent of U.S. highway surfaces, governments have been forced to delay transportation infrastructure repairs and construction.

Iowa State University scientists and engineers are working on new technologies to produce bio-oil that can substitute for petroleum-based ingredients in asphalt.

For a printable handout detailing Iowa State University's research initiatives regarding biobased asphalt, click here.