What is the role of the asphalt binder in a mixture?

The asphalt binder plays a crucial role in the mixture as it acts as the binding agent that holds the aggregates together. This property is essential because it ensures that the various sizes and types of aggregates in the asphalt mix are securely bonded, providing the necessary cohesion and stability to withstand traffic loads and environmental conditions. The binder fills the voids between aggregates, creating a homogenous matrix that contributes to the overall strength and durability of the pavement.

While the asphalt binder can influence the color of the asphalt, its primary function is not aesthetic but structural. Similarly, while some asphalt binders may have enhanced properties that could affect heat resistance, that is not their main role in the mixture. The weight of the asphalt pavement is primarily determined by the aggregate and the binder content, but modifying weight is not a direct function or purpose of the asphalt binder itself.