A Self-C cleaning Road Surface and Curbs for Drainage and Snow Melt
Russian researchers have unveiled a self-cleaning pavement and curb system designed to drain water and melted snow. The project, announced by the National Technology Initiative NTI through its press service, highlights a surface with an exceptionally porous structure that channels moisture away while sweeping away precipitation, dust, puddles, and small debris as they form.
Project leader Pavel Shapovalov explained that the road surface and its accompanying infrastructure are produced using injection molding technology in office settings or at industrial facilities. This approach enables scalable production and consistent quality for wide adoption across urban environments.
The technology is not limited to highways and city streets. It shows promise for parking lots, bicycle lanes, sports paths, park walkways, sidewalks, and even dike reinforcement projects where drainage and stability are crucial.
Efficient water removal from road surfaces not only improves safety for motorists and pedestrians but also helps reduce urban dust levels and mitigates the damaging effects of freeze-thaw cycles on pavement. By keeping surfaces drier, the system minimizes ice formation and cracking, contributing to longer-lasting roadway infrastructure.
The new building concept was introduced during the Archipel 2022 project-education intensive, a platform that combines research, development, and practical learning to accelerate innovative construction technologies. NTI officials describe the initiative as a stepping stone toward more resilient and cleaner urban environments.