Pothole Problem Can Be Solved, Carleton Professor Says
10th March 2018
Carleton University professor Abd El Halim says he invented a machine three decades ago which would prevent the potholes that plague Toronto roads, particularly in the winter and early spring. But despite what he says are test results showing its effectiveness, his invention hasn’t caught on.
“It’s not my fault it’s not being used, I’ve done everything a researcher can do,” El Halim said. “The road has been sick for 200 years, I can’t make you take the medicine.”
His invention, the AMIR road compactor, is named after El Halim’s eldest son, but also stands for Asphalt Multi-Integrated Roller.
Its secret is a rubber belt that allows a constant and consistent distribution of asphalt while paving roads. This is in contrast to most rollers, which have rigid, steel wheels that often vibrate and oscillate as they pave.
El Halim said rollers leave behind cracks which eventually become potholes. When water gets into the cracks and freezes into ice, it further breaks open the cracks. Winter weather accelerates the process.
It sounds plausible enough to give it a try.