Performance-based binder testing is the key to delivering more durable asphalt pavements
“One class, many behaviours: how SBS architecture and base binder chemical composition shape PMB performance“ was the title of Eurobitume’s recent 14th academia webinar, which was delivered by Dr Judita Škulteckė, Chief Researcher and Deputy Director at the Road Research Institute of Vilnius Gediminas Technical University.
Dr Škulteckė explored the underlying factors which determine why polymer-modified bitumens (PMBs) classified within the same category in Europe – based upon their penetration and softening point – can perform differently in service.
To understand the causes of this disparity, her team focused on the role of Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS) and base binder chemical composition.
Using comparative data and chemo-mechanical insights (ie understanding how chemical processes influence mechanical behaviour and vice versa), the presentation highlighted how performance-based specifications could ensure more durable asphalt pavements.
The presentation was followed by a lively discussion and pointed Q&A session.
Such events are part of Eurobitume’s commitment to offer its members valuable and exclusive learning and knowledge-sharing opportunities.
Eurobitume members will soon be able to access a recording of this academia webinar from the Training / Academia Webinars page of the Eurobitume Intranet site, where recordings of all the previous webinars are available.
The next Eurobitume-Academia webinar will be delivered mid-January 2026 by Professor Aybike Öngel from Berner Fachhochschule (BFH – Bern University of Applied Sciences) in Switzerland and we look forward to sharing the final details soon.
