Extensive works were recently carried out at Malta International Airport by Ooms International Holding and Bonnici Brothers Ltd. These included the resurfacing of runway 13-31 and the construction and widening of a taxiway and shoulder at Threshold 31.

The works are innovative because polymer modified bitumen has been used to manufacture the asphalt. Under the registered name of Sealoflex, this material can be produced locally by Bonnici Brothers Ltd under licence from Ooms International Holding. Bonnici Brothers has invested in the manufacturing plant and the technology for the production of Sealoflex to be able to supply the local market and also export to North African countries.

Ever-increasing traffic, higher axle loads and tyre pressure, unfavourable wheel configurations combined with extreme climatic conditions can result in increased deterioration of asphalt pavements.

Pavement performances can be enhanced by improving the properties of asphalt mixes. The best improvements are obtained by incorporating specific polymers to the bitumen used in asphalt. Sealoflex comprises a group of polymer modified binders for use in heavy duty asphalt pavements. Since its introduction in the early 1980s, Sealoflex has proved its value in terms of performance, durability and cost effectiveness.

It is characterised by its low temperature susceptibility, high elastic recovery, flexibility, stability and resistance to fatigue. These characteristics result in extended durability of asphalt pavements. It is also 100 per cent recyclable making it environmentally friendly and conforms to European standards. Sealoflex has been successfully used in major airport projects in the Netherlands, Belgium, Cyprus, Malaysia, Egypt, Syria, Jordan, India and Yemen and in the United States, in Chicago and Boston.

The works at MIA have been quality assured by Ooms International Holding personnel. The asphalt laid has been tested and approved by laboratories in Malta, the Netherlands and Germany.