In a significant stride towards modernizing Ukraine’s road infrastructure, a new standard for stone mastic asphalt (SMA) has been adopted, promising to enhance the durability and quality of pavements across the country. The development, spearheaded by Anna Kyrychenko of the National Transport University in Kyiv, addresses critical shortcomings in the previous regulatory framework and aligns Ukraine’s practices with European standards.
The old standard, DSTU B V.2.7-127:2015, provided a basic quality level but fell short in several areas. “The requirements for the geometric characteristics of aggregates were not strict enough, and the nomenclature of bituminous binders was outdated,” explains Kyrychenko. Moreover, the absence of testing methods to directly assess asphalt performance, particularly rutting resistance, hindered the real improvement of pavement service life.
The new standard, DSTU 9290-5:2024, introduces key innovations to tackle these issues. It imposes stricter requirements on aggregate characteristics, updates the nomenclature of bituminous binders, and, crucially, incorporates testing methods that directly evaluate asphalt performance. This shift is expected to significantly improve the durability of pavement structures, a critical factor for the road sector’s commercial stakeholders.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. Durable road infrastructure is vital for the efficient and safe transportation of goods, including energy resources. Improved pavements can reduce maintenance costs, minimize disruptions, and enhance overall transport efficiency, benefiting the energy sector’s supply chain.
Kyrychenko’s research, published in the journal ‘Дороги і мости’ (translated to English as ‘Roads and Bridges’), offers a detailed comparative analysis of the old and new standards. Her work underscores the importance of modernizing regulatory frameworks to foster technological advancement and improve the quality of road construction.
As Ukraine continues to harmonize its standards with European practices, this development marks a significant step forward. It sets a precedent for other countries grappling with similar challenges, demonstrating the power of evidence-based policy-making in driving progress. The adoption of DSTU 9290-5:2024 is not just a regulatory update; it’s a catalyst for enhancing the quality and durability of road infrastructure, with far-reaching benefits for the economy and the energy sector.