Advanced Characterization of Bituminous Binders: Comparing Industrial and Paving-Grade Bituminous Binders

This paper deals with the fundamental differences between industrial and paving-grade bituminous binders. The is presented in two main sections: 1) a review of materials’ colloidal structure required properties for paving applications; 2) wide range experimental tests which binders were studied compared. In this research, 160/220 bitumen was compared to same penetration lower penetration, 70/100 one. research consisted physical, chemical, thermal, microstructural, rheological analysis provide comprehensive understanding these diverse applications. Overall, comparison tests’ results indicated that while asphaltene content its characteristics have great influence on bitumen’s properties, it not only factor. During study chemical structures via Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), found Peri phase (attributed resins) also plays an important role, defining physical visco-elastic properties. fact, from microstructural point view using AFM significant difference notified ones. These allow bitumens be more elastic ductile bitumen.