AASHTO reviews impact of chlorinated solvent ban on asphalt binder extractions

At last week’s AASHTO Committee on Materials and Pavements meeting, InfraTest’s Ann Baranov presented information (NAPA Members only) that was also presented at NAPA’s 2024 Midyear Meeting in Brooklyn, NY.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues its rulemaking to effectively ban use of all chlorinated solvents. However, a specific exemption seemingly allows the continued use of methylene chloride in asphalt binder extraction apparatuses, albeit it with very specific exposure controls.

During the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) meeting, Illinois DOT announced their intention to investigate the identification of halogen-free solvent substitutes that can be used for extracting asphalt. While organizations review such alternatives, NAPA is forming a task group to develop industry compliance guidance for EPA’s methylene chloride regulation, to ensure the interim continued safe use of such chlorinated solvents.