ABSTRACT
The durability of bituminous mixtures is defined as their resistance to damage caused by environmental factors. Assuming that a pavement layer is constructed according to specification, it is generally agreed that the two primary factors affecting durability are embrittlement of the bitumen due to age hardening and damage due to moisture but a number of other parameters are also considered to be of importance. The principal mechanisms which cause age hardening of and water damage to bituminous paving mixtures are identified and described.
