A perspective of bituminous binder specifications

This chapter covers the concept and content of specifications for petroleum bitumen for use in paving applications. Specifications are required so that producers and users of bituminous binders can agree on the functional properties of the binder at the point of sale. The chapter covers characteristics, properties, test methods, and values in the context of specifications. It also provides a background to the regulatory frameworks used to develop specifications in Europe and the United States. An overview of the main elements of binder specifications in current use is provided.