Mastering bitumen for better roads and innovative applications from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Bitumen market, generalities, the manufacture of bitumen, transport, uses of bitumen, main developments and alternatives

Origins, history, definition, terminology | market per geographical areas, figures of consumption, main producers, capacities of production, ranking, main flows between areas | global development of motorised transport - cars, airplane - was one of the single most development of 20-21st centuries | global development of buidings, roofing and other applications of bitumen | difference between bitumen, cement and tar coal. Advantages and drawback of each | different ways of transport of bitumen and present the supply chain diagram and restrictions. ADR Regulation | sampling, handling and safety principles. Hazard from handling hot bitumen is thermal burns.

Constitution, structure and characterization of bitumen - specifications-rheology

Schematic constitution and structure of bitumen, relationship between structure and rheology | Performance tests | Bitumen 3 states | Penetration test EN 1426 & Softening Point EN 142 | viscosity measurement EN 12596, EN 12595, Explanation of breaking point Fraass measurement EN 12593 | testing Binder after RTFOT, after RTFOT and PAV | Euopean specifications and process of revision | Viscosity based standards (ASTM D3381 | Deformation and flow. Elasticity, plasticity, visoc-elasticity. Newtonian, Non-Newtonian behaviour. Stress-strain response, shear modulus and phase angle. | Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR) and Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) | Superpave specifications.

Modifications of bitumen and applications (roads, roofing,…)

Modifications using polymers. Performance of PmB. Elastic recovery test. | of types of modifications of bitumen: CRMB, warm mix asphalt, temperature reduction | Bitumen emulsions, their components, manufacture, storage, handling, properties, classification, uses | surface treatments | design of pavements and types of aggregates | fundamental tests, the simulative tests (fatigue test, rutting test, giratory compactor,…) | interest of full scale testing of asphalt mix: example of IFSTTAR carousel | Hot mix plants, transport, laying and compaction of asphalt mix | physical characteristics and industrial applications for sealing.

Health, Safety, Environment & Quality concerns regarding bitumen, and examples of research & innovation actions

Dangers and risks involved with road-building bitumens | Dangers and risks involved with industrial bitumens. | Innovation in the frame of safety with bitumen | Research and Innovation applied for recycling of asphalt pavement, of the use of waste asphalt pavement containing bitumen and not tar, for manufacturing new product.| Research and Innovation applied for bio bitumen Algoroute program and other origins of bitumen | Research and Innovation applied for environmental issues and life cycle inventory (LCI | Key areas for the Research and Innovation applied for bitumen new tests methods | Road of the future:: 5th generation road.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores the nature, use, and applications of bitumen in both road works and construction, which is foundational knowledge for civil engineers

Taught by experts from various fields, including research, industry, and end users, providing a comprehensive understanding of the topic

Covers the entire bitumen life cycle, from its origins and extraction to its applications and recycling, providing a holistic view

Emphasizes safety and environmental considerations related to bitumen, which is crucial knowledge for professionals working with this material

Provides insights into current research and innovation in the field of bitumen, keeping learners abreast of the latest developments

May not be suitable for learners with no prior knowledge or experience in civil engineering or related fields

Reviews summary

Top rated bitumen course

Learners say Mastering Bitumen for Better Roads and Innovative Applications is a well received course for gaining bitumen knowledge, but it has some difficult exams. This course is largely positive based on high ratings of 255 reviews. Lectures from top experts are engaging, informative, and innovative.

Features interesting and innovative assignments and discussions.

"Its very great day to receive the certificate that really helped me in finding new ideas over many improvements."

"I really enjoyed the course, it was easy to follow and I highly recommend to all the students that like topics related to petrochemical industry but also students that are interested in recycling."

"The most comprehensive summary of Bitumen."

Appropriate for beginners and intermediate learners seeking basic knowledge of bitumen.

"This course presents A-Z of the bitumen."

"Thank you for the opportunity to re-learn bitumen. This MOOC is very informative and provides important chemistry basics related to bitumen."

"The binding mechanism was also well explained in the course, also few major tests as per EN were discussed and revealed the significance of the same."

Offers a comprehensive overview of bitumen applications, specifications, safety, and environmental impact.

"Considering bitumen which is very important material considering road construction and other applications, this gives course most of aspect on this material such as chemistry and origin ,extraction process, applications, market potential, environmental impact."

"This course is very helpful for me as my personal and professional gromming also."

"It was an excellent course for all the learners and professionals."

Expert instructors provide excellent, informative lectures.

"I got a lot of knowledge about the bitumen from the well faculty members of this course."

"Es un curso muy bueno, que abarca todas las aristas del mundo del asfalto y a veces uno se especializa tanta en un área que se olvida el rol de los demás participantes."

"As Doctoral student, I have seen first time such a comprehensive information all about bitumen in single course."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Mastering bitumen for better roads and innovative applications with these activities:

Review Bitumen Fundamentals

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Review the basic concepts of bitumen, such as composition and properties, to strengthen your understanding of the material.

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Read through your previous notes and textbooks on bitumen.
Focus on grasping the key concepts, such as its origins, structure, and rheology.
Make notes and highlight important information for future reference.

Read 'The Asphalt Handbook'

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Expand your knowledge of bitumen by reading a comprehensive reference book, such as 'The Asphalt Handbook', covering a wide range of topics related to bitumen.

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Read through the chapters on bitumen properties, production, and applications.
Make notes and highlight important concepts and data.
Use the book as a reference for your projects and assignments.

Learn about Bitumen Rheology

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Gain a deeper understanding of bitumen's rheological properties and their significance in road construction by following guided tutorials.

Browse courses on Material Properties

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Identify online resources or tutorials on bitumen rheology.
Follow the instructions and complete the exercises provided in the tutorials.
Take notes and make sure to understand the concepts and equations.
Apply your knowledge to solve problems related to bitumen rheology.

Four other activities

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Discuss Bitumen Specifications

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Deepen your understanding of bitumen specifications and quality control measures by engaging in discussions with your peers.

Browse courses on Quality Control

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Identify a specific bitumen specification, such as penetration grade or viscosity.
Research the requirements and testing methods for the chosen specification.
Join an online forum or discussion group related to bitumen.
Share your findings and engage in discussions with other participants.

Design an Asphalt Pavement Mix

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Enhance your understanding of bitumen applications by designing an asphalt pavement mix, considering factors such as traffic volume and environmental conditions.

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Gather information on the project requirements, including traffic volume and environmental conditions.
Research different types of bitumen and aggregates and their properties.
Determine the appropriate proportions of bitumen, aggregates, and additives to meet the project specifications.
Create a mix design report that outlines your findings and recommendations.

Create a Presentation on Bitumen Sustainability

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Enhance your understanding of bitumen's environmental impact and sustainable practices by creating a presentation on the topic.

Browse courses on Environmental Impact

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Research the latest advancements and best practices in sustainable bitumen production and use.
Gather data and examples to support your presentation.
Develop a clear and concise presentation outline.
Create engaging visuals and graphics to illustrate your points.
Practice your presentation and seek feedback from your peers or instructors.

Develop a Research Proposal on Bitumen Innovation

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Foster your research skills and contribute to the advancement of the field by developing a research proposal on an innovative aspect of bitumen.

Browse courses on Future trends

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Identify a specific area within bitumen research that interests you.
Conduct a literature review to gather background information and identify research gaps.
Develop a research question and hypothesis.
Outline your proposed methodology and expected outcomes.
Seek feedback and guidance from your instructors or industry experts.

Career center

Learners who complete Mastering bitumen for better roads and innovative applications will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Research Scientist

Research Scientists conduct research in a variety of fields, including bitumen engineering. They work with a variety of materials, including bitumen, to improve their properties and performance. This course would be very useful for a Research Scientist, as it covers the latest research and innovation in the field of bitumen engineering. It also discusses the constitution, structure, and characterization of bitumen.

See salaries and explore the career path for Research Scientist

Geotechnical Engineer

Geotechnical Engineers study the properties of soil and rock to determine their suitability for construction projects. They use this information to design foundations, retaining walls, and other structures that are safe and stable. This course would be very useful for a Geotechnical Engineer, as it covers the use of bitumen in road construction and maintenance. It also discusses the latest research and innovation in the field of bitumen engineering.

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Transportation Engineer

Transportation Engineers design and build transportation systems such as roads, highways, and airports. They work with a variety of materials, including bitumen, to ensure the safety and efficiency of these systems. This course would be very useful for a Transportation Engineer, as it covers the use of bitumen in road construction and maintenance. It also discusses the latest research and innovation in the field of bitumen engineering.

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Structural Engineer

Structural Engineers design and build structures such as buildings, bridges, and tunnels. They work with a variety of materials, including bitumen, to ensure the safety and durability of these structures. This course would be very useful for a Structural Engineer, as it covers the use of bitumen in road construction and maintenance. It also discusses the latest research and innovation in the field of bitumen engineering.

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Civil Engineer

Civil Engineers design, build, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They use a variety of materials, including bitumen, to ensure the safety and durability of these structures. This course would be very useful for a Civil Engineer, as it covers the use of bitumen in road construction and maintenance. It also discusses the latest research and innovation in the field of bitumen engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer

Materials Scientist

Materials Scientists research and develop new materials for use in a variety of applications. They work with a variety of materials, including bitumen, to improve their properties and performance. This course would be very useful for a Materials Scientist, as it covers the constitution, structure, and characterization of bitumen. It also discusses the modifications of bitumen and their applications in various industries.

See salaries and explore the career path for Materials Scientist

Polymer Scientist

Polymer Scientists research and develop new polymers for use in a variety of applications. They work with a variety of materials, including bitumen, to improve their properties and performance. This course would be very useful for a Polymer Scientist, as it covers the modifications of bitumen using polymers. It also discusses the latest research and innovation in the field of bitumen engineering.

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Petroleum Engineer

Petroleum Engineers design and implement methods for extracting oil and gas from the earth. They work with a variety of materials, including bitumen, to ensure the safety and efficiency of these operations. This course would be very useful for a Petroleum Engineer, as it covers the constitution, structure, and characterization of bitumen. It also discusses the modifications of bitumen and their applications in various industries.

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Quality Control Manager

Quality Control Managers oversee the quality of products and services. They work with a variety of industries, including the construction industry, to ensure that products and services meet the required standards. This course could provide a helpful foundation for a Quality Control Manager, as it covers the testing and characterization of bitumen. It also discusses the latest research and innovation in the field of bitumen engineering.

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Safety Manager

Safety Managers oversee the safety of workers and the public. They work with a variety of industries, including the construction industry, to ensure that workplaces are safe and healthy. This course could provide a helpful foundation for a Safety Manager, as it covers the dangers and risks involved with bitumen. It also discusses the latest research and innovation in the field of bitumen engineering.

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Environmental Engineer

Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems. They work with a variety of industries, including the construction industry, to minimize the environmental impact of their operations. This course could provide a helpful foundation for an Environmental Engineer, as it covers the environmental concerns regarding bitumen. It also discusses the latest research and innovation in the field of bitumen engineering.

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Construction Manager

Construction Managers oversee the planning, construction, and completion of construction projects. They work with a variety of professionals, including engineers, architects, and contractors, to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required standards. This course may be helpful for a Construction Manager, as it provides an overview of the use of bitumen in construction projects. It also discusses the latest research and innovation in the field of bitumen engineering.

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Project Manager

Project Managers plan, organize, and execute projects of all sizes and complexities. They work with a variety of stakeholders, including engineers, contractors, and clients, to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required standards. This course may be helpful for a Project Manager, as it provides an overview of the use of bitumen in construction projects. It also discusses the latest research and innovation in the field of bitumen engineering.

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Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineers design and build machines and other mechanical devices. They work with a variety of materials, including bitumen, to ensure the safety and durability of these products. This course could provide a helpful foundation for a Mechanical Engineer, as it covers the use of bitumen in road construction and maintenance. It also discusses the latest research and innovation in the field of bitumen engineering.

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Chemical Engineer

Chemical Engineers design chemical plants, equipment and processes for large-scale manufacturing. They work with a variety of materials, including bitumen, to create new products and improve existing ones. This course could provide a helpful foundation for a Chemical Engineer, as it covers the constitution, structure, and characterization of bitumen. It also discusses the modifications of bitumen and their applications in various industries.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chemical Engineer