Soy-based asphalt and soy concrete protectant at ISA

When you pull into the parking lot at the Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA) office, you’re driving on more than just asphalt—you’re rolling over a piece of innovation funded by soybean farmer checkoff dollars. The lot is paved with soy-based asphalt and treated with a soy-based sealer, both eco-friendly solutions showcasing soybeans’ remarkable versatility. Walk into the building, and you’ll be walking on soy-protected concrete. These bio-based materials support sustainability while driving growth in the local agricultural economy, proving that the future of farming and infrastructure can go hand in hand. The products protecting the building infrastructure include:

• Vitala (formerly known as Invigorate) – A cutting-edge asphalt rejuvenator, Vitala incorporates soybeans to boost recycled asphalt content up to 40%. Each bushel of soybeans produces about 1.5 gallons of modified oil, equating to approximately 82.5 gallons per acre of soybeans. This environmentally friendly product enhances pavement performance and durability. Learn more at: soylei.com.
• PoreShield™ Concrete Protectant—Designed to protect concrete surfaces, PoreShield™ uses advanced technology to guard against moisture and de-icing salts, significantly extending the lifespan of concrete. PoreShield™ was developed as the result of a collaboration with the Indiana Soybean Alliance (ISA), Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), and Purdue University. Learn more at: poreshield.com
• Replay – A bio-based 100% nontoxic asphalt surface treatment that rejuvenates and seals asphalt pavements that cures in 30 minutes and extends the pavement’s lifespan by at least five years. The treatment reducescracking and wear while being kind to the environment. Learn more at: replaywest.com

These sustainable products highlight the commitment to soy-based innovations that protect infrastructure and support Indiana’s agricultural community.

How This Impacts Indiana Farmers

Indiana is a national leader in soybean production, consistently ranking in the top five states regarding output. In 2023, Indiana farmers harvested around 334 million bushels of soybeans. As the global demand for sustainable, bio-based products increases, Indiana farmers stand to benefit significantly from the integration of soy-based products in industries like construction.

The rise of soy-based products like Vitala, RePlay, and PoreShield™ represents a significant opportunity. As soybean growers continually seek new markets, the asphalt, concrete, and construction industries offer a vast demand for soy-based alternatives. The U.S. asphalt market was valued at approximately $26 billion in 2020. Utilizing soy oil in asphalt creates an opportunity to drive significant demand for soybeans, benefiting local farmers.

Additionally, using bio-based products speaks to the three pillars of sustainability in agriculture: economic viability, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility. These products offer solutions that protect infrastructure and promote sustainable agriculture, as they are renewable, biodegradable, and non-toxic.

With soy-based products gaining ground in markets like asphalt rejuvenation, Indiana farmers can be proud to know that their crops and checkoff investments are paving the way for a more sustainable future.