Nearly four years after the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) partnered with the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council (MSMC) and BioSpan Technologies, Inc., the soy-based asphalt sealant RePlay is proving to be a game-changer for pavement preservation.
In June 2021, RePlay was applied to two lane miles along Highway 63 north of Columbia, MO, as part of a pilot program testing the longevity and effectiveness of soybean-based sealants compared to traditional petroleum-based alternatives. Now, after multiple evaluations, the results speak for themselves:
- December 2024 visual inspections confirmed that RePlay-treated lanes showed significantly fewer cracks than untreated lanes.
- The sealant cured within 30 minutes during initial application, allowing for efficient rolling-lane treatments with minimal road closures.
- Permanent signage now marks the treated areas, making them a long-term benchmark for future evaluations.
- MoDOT has officially submitted RePlay and OptiSeal for further New Product Evaluation, signaling the potential for expanded use across the state.
A Renewable, Cost-Effective Solution for Missouri Roads
Unlike traditional petroleum-based sealants, RePlay is derived from soybeans, providing an eco-friendly alternative that enhances pavement durability. The product extends road lifespan and supports Missouri farmers and the state’s growing bioeconomy.
“This project showcases the power of soybean innovation,” said Matt Amick, Missouri Soybeans’ director of market development. “The positive results from this pilot confirm that soy-based solutions can improve infrastructure while reducing reliance on petroleum-based products.”
With tight budgets at the state, county, and municipal levels, this product will extend the lifespan of roads with limited labor and less time. This can potentially provide big cost savings for the departments managing our highways and roads.
The Future of Soy-Based Sealants
With RePlay and OptiSeal now under MoDOT review, the potential for wider adoption is growing. This project could lead to broader implementation, offering cities and states a cost-effective, sustainable option for road maintenance.
For more updates on soy-based innovations and sustainability efforts, visit mosoy.org.
