Frankfurt Airport Tests Cashew-Based Asphalt

The airport says the new blend is more sustainable.

Frankfurt Airport tests new asphalt. (Photo: Fraport)

[ Airports ]November 5, 2024 12:34 pm ET

By Ryan Ewing

Fraport AG, the operator of Frankfurt Airport, is kickstarting a new approach to sustainable construction by testing a 200-meter stretch of road on the airfield made from cashew-based asphalt. This material, developed by the startup B2Square, is the first of its kind to be used at an airport.

Traditional asphalt is produced from petroleum by-products. In contrast, B2Square’s biogenic asphalt utilizes a natural hydrocarbon resin combined with an organic extract from cashew shells.

This process reduces the material’s carbon footprint and enhances its durability, the airport said in a news release. By incorporating carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into the asphalt, the material helps offset greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, the low-temperature application method further minimizes energy consumption.

Fraport’s environmental management department views this sustainable asphalt as a significant step toward reducing the airport’s carbon footprint. If the test proves successful, the airport could expand the use of this material throughout the apron area.

According to the airport, the test stretch is being closely monitored by an independent laboratory to assess the asphalt’s long-term performance and durability over the next two years.

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Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.

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Author

Ryan Ewing

Ryan founded AirlineGeeks.com back in February 2013 and has amassed considerable experience in the aviation sector. His work has been featured in several publications and news outlets, including CNN, WJLA, CNET, and Business Insider. During his time in the industry, he's worked in roles pertaining to airport/airline operations while holding a B.S. in Air Transportation Management from Arizona State University along with an MBA. Ryan has experience in several facets of the industry from behind the yoke of a Cessna 172 to interviewing airline industry executives. Ryan works for AirlineGeeks' owner FLYING Media, spearheading coverage in the commercial aviation space.
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