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  Module 4: Pavement Design
Lecture 23 Pavement materials:Bitumen
  

Requirements of Bitumen

The desirable properties of bitumen depend on the mix type and construction. In general, Bitumen should posses following desirable properties.

  • The bitumen should not be highly temperature susceptible: during the hottest weather the mix should not become too soft or unstable, and during cold weather the mix should not become too brittle causing cracks.
  • The viscosity of the bitumen at the time of mixing and compaction should be adequate. This can be achieved by use of cutbacks or emulsions of suitable grades or by heating the bitumen and aggregates prior to mixing.
  • There should be adequate affinity and adhesion between the bitumen and aggregates used in the mix.