50 Years of SMA Development
Event detail
Type
Professional Development (CPD)
Date
23 February, 2026, 18:30 (food at 19:30)
Title
50 Years of SMA Development
Branch
South East Branch
Speakers
Rick Ashton
Rettenmaier UK & Ireland
Rettenmaier UK & Ireland
Venue
The Square Pig,
30-32 Procter St, London,
WC1V 6NX
30-32 Procter St, London,
WC1V 6NX
Register
Details
Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) was originally developed in
Germany in the 1970's and adapted to external
international specifications in the 1990's. However,
some of these first generation SMA surfaces had
variable durability. Rick will explore the reasons for this
and how subsequent development of appropriate
specifications has improved service life and long-term
performance. Today, VIATOP® premium fibres are used
globally in the production of these materials, backed by
decades of technical expertise and a history of
collaboration with asphalt producers and specifiers.
Alongside this Rettenmaier produce a range of
pelletised asphalt additives which Rick will give an
overview of demonstrating the innovative benefits of
these functional environmentally friendly additives.
What You Will Gain from attendance:
• Understanding of the key factors that influence
the sustainability and durability of SMA surfacing.
• Insight into international best practice, supported
by relevant case studies.
A forward look at innovation in SMA surfacing, including
opportunities for carbon reduction and sustainability.
Germany in the 1970's and adapted to external
international specifications in the 1990's. However,
some of these first generation SMA surfaces had
variable durability. Rick will explore the reasons for this
and how subsequent development of appropriate
specifications has improved service life and long-term
performance. Today, VIATOP® premium fibres are used
globally in the production of these materials, backed by
decades of technical expertise and a history of
collaboration with asphalt producers and specifiers.
Alongside this Rettenmaier produce a range of
pelletised asphalt additives which Rick will give an
overview of demonstrating the innovative benefits of
these functional environmentally friendly additives.
What You Will Gain from attendance:
• Understanding of the key factors that influence
the sustainability and durability of SMA surfacing.
• Insight into international best practice, supported
by relevant case studies.
A forward look at innovation in SMA surfacing, including
opportunities for carbon reduction and sustainability.