The roads and infrastructure industry has undergone substantial change in recent years with the focus shifting toward sustainable solutions that also ensure performance outcomes for long-lasting roadways. The August 2022 issue of Roads and Infrastructure Australia asked Sripath’s Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer Deepak Madan to comment on what he sees as a challenge to productivity within the industry today.  

 

Madan pointed out that one byproduct of a contemporary bitumen production and distribution is the global impact of a change in bitumen quality. As Madan explained, “Increasingly, refineries attempt to utilize the most economical crude slates, maximize production of higher-value fractions, and comply with stringent sulphur regulations. This results in high variability and inconsistency and declining quality of bitumen.” This has been further impacted by the advent of prevalent coking, block running, synthetic crude use, and shale oil production.  

 

Rather than being able to rely on refiner producers to provide bitumen that will meet their desired performance specifications, contractors and departments of transportation must look to other methodologies. Many industry experts are turning to balanced mix design and the use of additives to counter the impacts of the changes in bitumen quality.  

 

To maintain productivity standards, agencies should implement thorough testing protocols that look at overall mix performance, including aggregate, binder, and additives, rather than solely evaluating bitumen qualities. “This manifests as a need to actively monitor and manage the grade, viscosity, penetration, and polymer compatibility in bitumen,” Madan shared. This can help produce asphalt or bitumen mixes that will be more durable and resist aging.  

 

While these changes could impact productivity in the industry, understanding and accepting responsibility for mix performance can lead to more optimized processes. To help the industry overcome these challenges, Sripath offers a portfolio of additives that can help restore bitumen’s functional properties while improving roadway performance.  

 

Read the complete excerpt in Roads & Infrastructure Australia.