Comprehensive Evaluation of Common AC Binders for Integrating PG and MEPDG Standards in Bangladesh

Abstract: This study presents a comprehensive characterization of the two most commonly used asphalt cement (AC) binders in Bangladesh: the unmodified Penetration Grade 60/70 and the Polymer Modified Binder (PMB) with Penetration Grade 60/70. The research involves a series of both conventional and advanced laboratory tests to evaluate the binders’ compliance with established standard specifications, determine their viscosity-temperature susceptibility (VTS) characteristics using the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) methodology, and compare these with default values specified in the Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG) of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO). By conducting these tests, the study establishes the performance grade (PG) of each binder in relation to the local climatic conditions, which are crucial for determining binder suitability for specific projects. Results indicate that the unmodified Penetration Grade 60/70 binder aligns with PG 64-28, while the PMB binder corresponds to PG 76-34. Both binders were found to exceed the minimum performance requirements necessary for the prevailing climatic conditions in Bangladesh, where the standard recommendations are PG 64-10 for unmodified binders and PG 76-10 for PMB. These findings underscore the potential for the nationwide transition to the Performance Grade (PG) system, providing critical guidance for optimizing binder selection in future pavement projects. Furthermore, the study supports the eventual adoption of the MEPDG, which offers more accurate pavement performance predictions based on locally available binders. This research offers valuable insights into the performance and suitability of commonly used AC binders, paving the way for better pavement durability and the enhancement of transportation infrastructure in Bangladesh.

Keywords: Asphalt Cement (AC) Binder, Polymer Modified Binder (PMB), Performance Grade (PG), Viscosity-Temperature Susceptibility (VTS), Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG).