Why in the News?
The CSIR–Central Road Research Institute, New Delhi, has developed MSS+ (Modified Mix Seal Surfacing Plus) technology for eco-friendly, durable, and low-cost road surfacing.
About MSS+ Technology:
- Developer: Council of Scientific & Industrial Research – Central Road Research Institute (CSIR–CRRI), New Delhi.
- Year of Development: 2021 (in collaboration with J.M.V.D. Industries).
- Pilot Project: First road in Uttar Pradesh built near Lucknow in 2022; Used for 202 km of roads under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) in 2025.
- Composition: Crushed natural aggregate, customised modified bitumen emulsion, mineral admixture.
- Preparation: Mix made at ambient temperature, eliminating heating of aggregate or bitumen.
- Laying: 25–30 mm thickness using conventional asphalt pavers.
Benefits Offered:
- Eco-Friendly: No thermal process → significantly reduces carbon emissions.
- Durable: Provides strong wearing course, enhanced skid resistance, and prevents water infiltration.
- Cost-Effective: Reduced energy requirement lowers construction costs.
- All-Weather Use: Can be laid in varied weather conditions due to ambient temperature application.
| [UPSC 2020] In rural road construction, the use of which of the following is preferred for ensuring environmental sustainability or to reduce carbon footprint?
1. Copper slag 2. Cold mix asphalt technology 3. Geotextiles 4. Hot mix asphalt technology 5. Portland cement Select the correct answer using the code given below: Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only * (b) 2, 3 and 4 only (c) 4 and 5 only (d) 1 and 5 only |
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