Bending Beam Rheometer Tests on Complex Bituminous Binders, Outcomes from RILEM TC 272-PIM TG1

The Task Group 1 of the RILEM Technical Committee 272-PIM, “Phase and Interphase behaviour of innovative bituminous Materials”, focused on the suitability of current specifications and test methods, originally developed for conventional bituminous binders, for its use in the characterisation of complex binders. In such a context, an extensive inter-laboratory program was conducted on a wide variety of binders including neat bitumen, polymer-modified bitumen and blends with liquid additives. Nine laboratories, from both academia and industry, were involved in the standard bending beam rheometer (BBR) test. Potential differences in testing protocols and analysis procedures were identified among laboratories, and an assessment of test reproducibility was performed. This initial analysis will serve as a basement for further interpretation on how the BBR can address complex bituminous binders.