Principal investigator: Kristin Sample-Lord
University: Villanova University
Industry partners: Aero Aggregates of North
Pennsylvania-based company, Aero Aggregates, has been leading the implementation of Ultra-Lightweight Foamed Glass Aggregate (UL-FGA) as sustainably produced, lightweight fill for infrastructure projects across the U.S. Preliminary research suggests that Aero’s UL-FGA also demonstrates beneficial properties for use in soil mixes for green roof applications. However, Aero does not have the in-house expertise to evaluate the potential of their products to successfully expand further into this application area. Thus, Aero is excited to partner with Villanova University and its students, who are leaders in innovation in the field of green stormwater infrastructure, to evaluate use of UL-FGA for green roof mixes. Combining Aero’s goals to expand in the green roof industry and the educational mission of Villanova, the project will complete two objectives: (1) Provide students with real-world experience and develop their technical skills; and (2) Determine key parameters for Aero to expand their recycled products to green roof applications.