What’s the Number One reason to test asphalt binders?

Asphalt binders (also called bitumen, liquid asphalt) hold an asphalt mixture together as the glue. Binder testing standardizes the product used in making asphalt mixtures to ensure it will perform as expected. That means the Number One reason we test a binder is to make sure it conforms to the standards required by agency specifications.

 Specifications help achieve uniformity among asphalt pavements to ensure the pavements can withstand environmental stresses and traffic loads. They’re designed to conform to local seasonal temperature variations and help prevent premature pavement failure that can cost the customer or taxpayer thousands or even millions of dollars. Falling short can result in rejected loads, penalties, or worse — a complete repave.  

The BATT Lab provides high quality testing of binders utilizing decades of experience to ensure your binder will meet AASHTO M 320 or AASHTO M 332 specifications. You can count on us for timely and responsive service, and we can deliver your testing results in only one to three days depending on the needed testing regime. 

We test all types of binders, including polymer-modified, rubber-modified, or additive-modified binders. Our state-of-the-art laboratory utilizes the latest equipment, including the Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) AASHTO T 315, the Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR) AASHTO T 313, a Rolling-thin Film Oven (RTFO) AASHTOT 240, and Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) AASHTO R 28. Both the RTFO and PAV are used to accelerate the long-term aging and oxidation of asphalt binders, which are then tested with the DSR and BBR.

 We apply the latest methods for predicting binder aging quality by using 20- or 40-hour PAV conditioning and then measuring the stiffness and slope in the BBR to determine Delta Tc.  

BATT tests additives through our in-house blending/formulation, which includes the use of high shear blending of polymers. We can provide basic spec testing, or a more detailed, fundamental analysis. At BATT, we don’t simply check a box when completing a test, we fully analyze the binder and provide feedback to help you understand how it will perform in the mix. For more information on our binder testing capabilities, contact us.