This article describes the production and properties of plant-based binder and its use in different locations in France. The binder is obtained by mixing a number of constituents of vegetable origin in a strictly controlled process until a polymerisation reaction takes place which gives the necessary cohesion and mechanical performance. The binder can be transparent in a thin layer, and can be used to manufacture mixes which take on the natural colour of the aggregate or can be coloured as desired. The viscosity values are considerably lower than for pure bitumen, so hot mixes can be made at a lower temperature without reducing workability. The mixes can be compacted without difficulty and show good strength and rutting resistance. Studies are given of the mixes in use in various sites in France: macrotexture, skid resistance and durability were satisfactory after three years.
Abstract