Question

In the Union Budget 2011-12, a full exemption from the basic customs duty was extended to the bio-based asphalt (bioasphalt). What is the importance of this material?

1. Unlike traditional asphalt, Bioasphalt is not based on fossil fuels.

2. Bioasphalt can be made from non-renewable resources.

3. Bioasphalt can be made from organic waste materials.

4. It is eco-friendly to use Bioasphalt for surfacing of the roads.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

1. 1, 2 and 3 only
2. 1, 3 and 4 only
3. 2 and 4 only
4. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 2 : 1, 3 and 4 only

The correct answer is 1, 3 and 4 only.

• Bioasphalt is made from non-petroleum-based renewable resources. Hence, statement 1 is correct and statement 2 is incorrect.
  • These resources are:
    • lignin,
    • Palm oil,
    • Sugar,
    • Molasses,
    • Rice,
    • Vegetable oils.

• Bioasphalt for roads in Zeeland, a Dutch province, is being developed by Wageningen UR Food & Biobased Research, the Asfalt Kennis Centrum (Asphalt Knowledge Centre, AKC) and the company H4A from Sluiskil (NL). 
• Fossil bitumen – the main ‘glue’ in asphalt roads – is replaced by the biobased adhesive lignin in this innovative Bioasphalt.
• Lignin is a natural adhesive material that gives structure to all kinds of plants and trees and is, for example, an important component of straw. Bioasphalt can be made from organic waste materials. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
• The first specimens of asphalt concrete based on lignin were recently created and the involved partners are busy testing and optimizing its properties.
• Advantages:
  • Lignin can replace fossil bitumen (currently made from petroleum in a process that releases a great amount of CO2), substantially reducing the environmental footprint of asphalt.
  • It is also expected to improve functional properties of the asphalt, such as rolling resistance, and to make roads quieter. Various governments and companies have already shown a lot of interest in this promising development. Hence, statement 4 is correct.