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