A materials technology-management (MT-M) framework for sustainable road construction

This paper discusses a Materials Technology-Management (MT-M) framework concept that can be applied in road construction, including the use of recycled and alternative products. The MT-M framework, which is based on materials technology, supply, demand and management (strategic and project), proposes the use of management processes to achieve a balance between supply and demand through materials technology. Economic, engineering, and environmental factors can be taken into consideration in the application of the MT-M framework. The paper explains the concept and components of the framework in some detail and goes on to discuss the various stakeholders and demand cordons that can be associated with the framework. A simplified concept for materials classification, within the framework (materials technology), is also proposed. The paper concludes by highlighting potential benefits of the framework. The work forms part of an overall research investigation into Sustainable Road Construction, being undertaken by the University of Abertay Dundee, Heriot-Watt University and the City of Edinburgh Council, which involves input of project case studies into the framework to evaluate its robustness.