Maintaining roads and pavements is critical for safety, durability, and quality of transportation. Traffic counts are on the rise, and roadways are in need of sustainable treatments that will have the capability to resist wear and tear. One solution that can dramatically improve the performance of a road is bituminous surface treatment, and it is a cost-effective option commonly used on highways, rural roads, and urban roads.

What is Bituminous Surface Treatment?

Bituminous surface treatment (BST) is a pavement preservation treatment that involves the application of a layer of bitumen binder and the application of aggregate material to existing pavements. BST improves the surface strength of roads and skid resistance after application, while also protecting the underlying pavement from water infiltration.

Bituminous surface treatment when applied by a trained professional results in a durable, waterproof, and long-lasting surface for roads. It is designed to extend the life of pavement, while reducing the cost of maintenance, and providing increased safety on roads.

Components of Bituminous Surface Treatment

Bituminous Surface Treatment is based upon the quality of materials used during application, including:

• Bitumen Binder – either as an emulsion or cutback bitumen, which acts as the adhesive mechanism.

• Aggregate – a gravel or crushed stone that provides the necessary friction and surface wear resistance.

• Additives – optional additives such as polymers and/or an anti-stripping agent that may enhance performance and become an attribute of the BST.

Types of Bituminous Surface Treatments

There are various treatments for varying traffic volumes and pavement conditions:

• Single Coat Surface Treatment - Straightforward and cost-effective means of treatment where traffic volumes will be low.

• Double Coat Surface Treatment - Extra durability and skid-resistance where traffic access is somewhat more moderate.

• High-Friction Surface Treatment - Perfect for areas with turning or areas prone to slip (especially horizontal curves).

• Fog Sealing or Slurry Seal - Provides a protective layer to stop water penetration, deterioration of pavement at the surface, and minimizes wear from traffic.

Benefits of Bituminous Surface Treatment

The advantages of using BST for the road infrastructure are vast:

• Cost-Effective - No financially beats inpacting a layer of asphalt-coated aggregates as a full resurfacing.

• Last Longer - Protects and reinforces existing pavements.

• Better Safety - Provides skid-lines on the surface for vehicles and pedestrians.

• Weather Resistant - The reduction of water infiltration helps to prevent cracking and prevent potholes from excessive moisture intrusion.

• Eco-Friendly - Using existing materials means hardly any waste at all, and efficient use of materials.

The Application Process

The application of a quality BST will be a consistent application and thorough process:

• Surface Preparation - Complete removal of dust, debris, or loose aggregate.

• Application of Bitumen - Even application of binder on the surface of the pavement.

• Aggregate Application - Application of stone or gravel evenly covering the bitumen.

• Rolling and Compaction - Documenting proper compression of coarsely aggregate material is necessary to establish a sound base of material.

• Curing and Follow-up Inspection - It is important to allow all materials to set before inspecting. All materials must meet specifications.

Best Applications

Good applications for bituminous surface treatment include:

• Rural and urban roads which carry moderate traffic volumes

• Highways and secondary roads that demand economical maintenance

• Car parks, and industrial areas where traffic is light to moderate

• Where water protection and skid resistance are considerations

Factors Influencing Performance

Performance of bituminous surface treatment may be influenced by several factors:

• The traffic load - Some roads may warrant double-coat treatment for heavy traffic

• The climate - Very hot weather, or heavy rain, can affect performance of bituminous surface treatment.

• The qualifications and workmanship of the materials and investment made in the work quality and materials - The higher quality bi-tumen and aggregate that is installed, the longer the expected performance.

• Maintenance programs - Regular inspections of the surface will help extend its service life

Selecting a Contractor for Bituminous Surface Treatment

To achieve the best service, experience and competence level in the installation is critical:

• Give preference to contractors with a recent portfolio of completed road projects

• Confirm compliance with standards and local regulations

• Check that high-quality bi-tumen and aggregates are being used

• Confirm that companies are able to offer a unique solution that is tailored to the surface in question

Conclusions

Bituminous surface treatment is a recommended and economical option for the protection and restoration of road surfaces. A study of the forensic longevity of the bituminous surface treatment process has been produced and hence it confirms durability, skid resistance and weather-proofing over time, and will prolong the life of the pavement, all while maintaining safety and performance. To achieve durable and professional quality ensure to use competent contractors who can provide quality bituminous surface treatment catered to your project.