Road construction in Germany is undergoing a transformation. As of January 1, 2027, new workplace exposure limits for fumes and aerosols generated during the hot processing of bitumen will come into force. These changes will make the use of low-temperature asphalt (LTA) the standard in road construction. General Circular on Road Construction (ARS) No. 13/2025 issued by the Federal Ministry for Transport lays the foundation for this transition. To ensure that the new technical and organisational requirements can be implemented effectively in practice, the integration of digital solutions is essential.
New Framework Conditions in Asphalt Paving
The use of LTA offers numerous benefits, including improved occupational health and safety, reduced emissions, and lower energy consumption during asphalt production. However, the reduced processing temperature also places higher demands on logistics and construction workflows. The asphalt mix arrives on site at a lower temperature and must be processed and compacted within a tighter time frame. To ensure the quality and durability of the pavement layers, precise processes and clear coordination are vital.
Efficient Construction Site Logistics through Digital Connectivity
Digital platforms such as those developed by Q Point make a crucial contribution in this area. Cloud-based systems and mobile applications allow all stakeholders along the value chain to be seamlessly connected. Decision-makers receive real-time information - for example, on the loading temperature of the asphalt mix or the expected arrival time of the truck on site. This enables targeted preparation of construction activities, as all the necessary data for timely installation without delays is available. Even in the case of delivery delays or disruptions, the paving team is immediately informed in real time.
Data-Driven Compaction Control
The requirements outlined in ARS 13/2025 also include comprehensive monitoring of temperature and compaction during paving. Digital systems continuously capture the surface temperature of the asphalt and provide the roller operator with specific instructions for the compaction process. This ensures uniform compaction and high construction quality, even under tighter time constraints.
Streamlined Documentation Processes
Another key aspect is the extensive self-monitoring mandated by the circular. This includes weather data, air temperature, temperature measurements during unloading of the asphalt mix, and documentation of the compaction process. These requirements can be fulfilled efficiently and automatically using digital solutions. All relevant information is centrally collected, systematically stored, and can be easily made available to the client.
Future-Proof Road Construction Through Digitalisation
With ARS 13/2025 and the forthcoming new technical guidelines for asphalt paving, LTA is becoming the new standard. At the same time, modern road construction projects can only be executed efficiently and to a high standard if digital technologies are integrated from the very beginning. Solutions like those offered by Q Point provide the transparency and control needed to reliably meet the complex demands associated with LTA. The time to prepare is NOW.