Interviews
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7/17/2025
A new look for the Monza circuit
Technology, sustainability and innovation: Mapei’s role in the modernisation of the Monza Circuit
The redevelopment project of the Monza National Autodrome saw Mapei take a leading role with cutting-edge solutions. The intervention introduced innovative bituminous road surfaces made with recycled thermoplastic polymers and advanced chemical admixtures, ensuring high performance and sustainability. We spoke about it with Francesco Cerutti, Corporate Product Manager of Mapei's Road Engineering Division.
Mapei played a key role in the renovation of Monza circuit. What were the most innovative aspects of this project?
The Monza circuit project was a challenge from both a technical and logistics perspective. We worked on a truly iconic circuit where we needed to guarantee not only high performance, but also its durability over time. The most innovative element was the use of recycled thermoplastic polymers and cutting-edge chemical admixtures for the bituminous paving of the track, developed in collaboration with Iren. This technology enabled a type of bituminous conglomerate to be created that would be more resistant to high temperatures and mechanical stresses, while at the same time maintaining our focus on environmental sustainability.
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The use of Mapei solutions from the Road engineering division ensured the creation of new bituminous paving for the circuit.
Bituminous road surfaces are constantly evolving. How do you see the future in this sector?
The bituminous road surfaces sector is constantly evolving, driven by the need to improve the sustainability and performance of materials. I believe that, over the next few years, we will see an increase in the use of recycled materials and solutions that reduce CO2 emissions during the life cycle of roads. Research is moving towards bitumen modified with innovative admixtures that have the capacity to improve durability and reduce maintenance costs.
Another important aspect will be adapting to climate change. Average temperatures are increasing and this has a direct impact on the performance of roads. Materials with higher thermal resistance and mechanical properties, such as those employed at Monza, will be requested more and more frequently. Also, I can see a future in which digitalisation and smart road monitoring systems will play a key role in predictive maintenance, optimising intervention times and reducing material waste.
Several Mapei product lines were used in the Monza project. How important was the synergy between the various divisions?
The project required highly specific solutions for every part of the project: from the road surfaces for the track to the underpasses and from the kerbs to the pits. Mapei has a vast product portfolio and we were able to tap into various specific product lines, such as those of solutions for bituminous road surfaces, concrete admixtures, waterproofing systems and coatings. One of the fundamental aspects was the collaboration between the teams, the Technical Services Division and the site teams. We worked in close synergy to supply integrated solutions and to respond, quickly, to any need. Our capacity to intervene with products compatible with each other had a high added value in such a complex project.
Mapecoat TNS Race Track, a waterborne and rapid film-forming acrylic colored coating, was used for the protection and coating of the kerbs and run-off areas, as well as the line markings on the entire track.
Sustainability was a fundamental requirement of the project. In what way did Mapei make this intervention more sustainable?
Sustainability was one of the cornerstones of the project. We focused on the use of recycled materials, such as thermoplastic polymers from recycled light plastics, which were used to improve the performance of the bituminous conglomerate. For the concrete used to build the kerbs and underpasses, we included recycled aggregates to reduce consumption of natural raw materials.
Another key aspect was choosing products from the Zero* line, such as Mapegrout Easy Flow Zero* and Elastocolor Paint Zero*, whose residual CO2 emissions are offset by acquiring certified environmental credits in favour of reforestation projects.
CO2 emissions measured throughout the life cycle of products from the Zero line in 2025 using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology, verified and certified with EPDs, have been offset through the acquisition of certified carbon credits in support of forestry protection projects. A commitment to the planet, to people and to biodiversity. For more details on how emissions are calculated and on climate mitigation projects financed through certified carbon credits, click here.
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