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A GUIDE TO THE SELECTION OF
BINDER FOR ASPHALT PAVEMENTS
advisory note 4
This Advisory Note provides a summary of the principal
binder types used in common applications. A more
detailed guide to selection of binder type for specific
applications, as well as determination of volumetric
properties, is provided in the references listed below.
The selection of a binder for use in an asphalt mix
depends on the environmental conditions and required
engineering properties of the asphalt. Asphalt
properties are a function of the volumetric properties of
the mix (grading, binder content and voids relationships)
and the characteristics of the aggregate, filler and
binder.
Bituminous binders used in hot mix asphalt manufacture
comprise two major groups:
• conventional bitumen
• modified bitumen binders.
Modified bitumen binders are further categorised as:
• multigrade binder (M)
• polymer modified binder (PMB).
Bitumen
Conventional bitumen complying with Australian
Standard AS 2008 – Residual bitumen for pavements
is the most common bituminous binder used in asphalt
work in Australia. Bitumen is classified by its viscosity
at 60ºC and comprises three major grades, Class 170,
Class 320 and Class 600.
Class 170 bitumen is the softest grade and provides
the greatest flexibility and durability for use in cool
climates, and for light traffic.
Class 320 is a slightly harder grade of bitumen that is
the most versatile and commonly used binder for hot
mix asphalt in a wide range of applications. Compared
to Class 170 bitumen, it provides greater resistance to
potential for rutting and deformation at high service
temperatures or heavy traffic.
Class 600 is an even harder grade of bitumen than
Class 320. Its use is...