The Gallogly College of Engineering (GCoE) and Mewbourne College of Earth and Energy (MCEE) of the University of Oklahoma (OU) proudly announces the opening of its new Asphalt Emulsion Laboratory, cutting-edge research and testing facility designed to support advancements in asphalt emulsion and pavement preservation research and innovations. Initiated with a generous donation of more than $45,000 from Sripath® Technologies, LLC, a global leader in developing and manufacturing innovative asphalt products, the lab has procured equipment for asphalt emulsion production and testing. Additional facilities for pavement preservation applications are currently being acquired. Housed within the Asphalt Binder Laboratory in Sarkeys Energy Center, this new laboratory will serve as a hub for innovation in asphalt emulsion technologies, offering state, regional, and national stakeholders access to critical testing, training, and research services.

On May 15, Dr. Krishna Srinivasan (president) and Deepak Madan (Chief Operating Officer) from Sripath® Technologies, LLC, visited this newly established lab and met with OU faculties, officials and students. Dr. Srinivasan mentioned that “Sripath thrives on the challenge of confronting long-standing issues facing the asphalt industry, and then engineering additive solutions through research, innovation, and testing.” He also highlighted Sripath’s long-standing relationships with university partners and emphasized the importance of building a strong and productive collaboration with OU. Dr. Syed Ashik Ali, the Asphalt Emulsion Lead at OU, said “Our goal is to lead the way in pavement preservation and environmentally responsible infrastructure solutions. The Asphalt Emulsion Laboratory will play a vital role in enhancing the longevity and sustainability of our roadways.” Dr. Musharraf Zaman, Director of Southern Plains Transportation Center (SPTC), noted “As infrastructure demands continue to grow, the laboratory aims to contribute to longer-lasting and cost-effective pavements through innovative pavement preservation solutions. Research conducted at the lab will focus on optimizing material performance, improving construction practices, and addressing the unique environmental challenges of the southern plains’ region.”

The facility will support ongoing partnerships with state agencies, local municipalities, and industry leaders. It will also provide hands-on learning opportunities for students, preparing the next generation of transportation professionals with real-world skills in asphalt materials testing and evaluation.