Pavements
About the Author
Professor, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
I am a civil engineer, specialized in the field of pavement engineering. I am a member of ASTM (committee on sustainability) and AAPT.
About This Video
Our basic principle is that by flowing an appropriate fluid that is cooler than the asphalt mix, we can reduce the temperature of the asphalt pavement surface, while using the heated fluid for different end applications such as heating, power generation or refrigeration. The reduced temperature of the pavement surface will lead to reduced heat emitted from the pavement, and hence a reduction of the near surface air temperature. This, in turn, can lead to savings in energy consumption of nearby buildings, and improve air quality.
Join the Discussion
Welcome to Planet Forward – real dialogue on energy issues: experts, policymakers, citizens and you! This is your chance to have your voice heard on one of the biggest challenges of our times: whether we can move away from using fossil fuels and if we should, how should we do it?
Send us a video, written essay, podcast, song, etc. (see our guidelines for details). They’ll spark debate online, where site users will rate their favorites.
For inspiration, we recommend you check out our PBS TV special, and our web sequel, with Van Jones, President Obama's green jobs advisor, joining Planet Forward's Frank Sesno in a discussion of the formula for our energy future.









1 comment for "Pavements".
1. interesting idea
This is a very interesting idea... diverting heat/energy from one source where we don't want it to another where it is needed and can be used.