We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Course image
Gary SCHOFIELD, Cécile GIACOBI, Frédéric ANDRZEJEWSKI, Virginie MOUILLET, Mike SOUTHERN, Olivier GAMET, Eric GOSSE, Yves BROSSEAUD, Laurence LAPALU, Sophie LIMBORG, Jean-François CORTE, Emmanuel CHAILLEUX, Hélène AZOULAY, Nicolas HAUTIERE, Gilles GAUTHIER, Jean Pascla PLANCHE, Nadège VO VINH, Clémence QUEFFELEC, Armel de la BOURDONNAYE, and John D'ANGELO

During the four coming weeks, best experts in bitumen will bring you their knowledge and experience to build a strong understanding of today’s realities and new perspectives on the future of bitumen.

Total is the European leader on bitumen markets. Innovation has always been the key to sustainability and durability in the products they develop. Their main objective here is to share technical knowledge and experience to insure bitumen are being used in the most effective and efficient ways for their different applications in road works.

Read more

During the four coming weeks, best experts in bitumen will bring you their knowledge and experience to build a strong understanding of today’s realities and new perspectives on the future of bitumen.

Total is the European leader on bitumen markets. Innovation has always been the key to sustainability and durability in the products they develop. Their main objective here is to share technical knowledge and experience to insure bitumen are being used in the most effective and efficient ways for their different applications in road works.

Ecole des Ponts, France oldest engineering school, remains very much in the present, as it has always been, in training engineers in order to meet the needs of our society and citizens in key areas such as transport housing and urban services, but also in fields like energy, environment, climate sciences, land-use planning and sustainable development.

Nineteen world recognized experts on bitumen are contributing to this MOOC.

The idea is to provide the broadest prism on this topic area with speakers coming from research, industry and end users.

Enroll now

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.
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
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

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Mastering bitumen: expert insights

According to learners, this course provides extensive knowledge on bitumen, spanning its market, science, and diverse applications in roads and industry. Students highly value the contributions from a large panel of world-recognized experts representing various sectors, finding their insights both informative and practical. The content offers a holistic view, from fundamental properties and testing methods like rheology and DSR/BBR, to critical topics like HSEQ and the latest innovation and research in recycling and bio-bitumen. While delivering significant technical depth, some reviews suggest prior technical or engineering background is beneficial for grasping all concepts fully. Overall, it's considered a strong resource for professionals.
Highly detailed scientific and engineering content
"The level of technical detail, particularly on rheology and testing, was exactly what I needed for my job."
"Some sections were very dense with scientific information and required rewatching to fully understand."
"This course definitely requires a prior technical background in engineering or materials science to fully grasp."
Connects theory with real-world uses
"I learned practical insights into road construction and how bitumen properties affect performance, which I can apply immediately."
"The examples of different bitumen applications, beyond just roads, were very useful."
"It connected the scientific principles clearly to real-world engineering challenges."
Covers bitumen from market to innovation
"The course covers everything from the basics of bitumen origins and market to cutting-edge research and recycling."
"I appreciated the overview of the entire bitumen lifecycle and different applications like roads and roofing."
"Provides a solid foundation on bitumen science, properties, and testing methods."
Learn from leading experts in the field
"Hearing directly from industry experts was invaluable; their experience shone through."
"The diverse perspectives from different speakers, covering research, industry, and users, was a major highlight for me."
"The instructors are clearly masters of their subject and highly knowledgeable."
Pace and organization could be improved
"Some modules felt a bit rushed or jumped between topics without clear transitions."
"The course could benefit from a clearer structure or better signposting between different expert lectures."
"It was sometimes challenging to follow the flow with so many different speakers."

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
Review the basic concepts of bitumen, such as composition and properties, to strengthen your understanding of the material.
Show steps
  • 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'
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.
Show steps
  • 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
Gain a deeper understanding of bitumen's rheological properties and their significance in road construction by following guided tutorials.
Browse courses on Material Properties
Show steps
  • 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
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Discuss Bitumen Specifications
Deepen your understanding of bitumen specifications and quality control measures by engaging in discussions with your peers.
Browse courses on Quality Control
Show steps
  • 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
Enhance your understanding of bitumen applications by designing an asphalt pavement mix, considering factors such as traffic volume and environmental conditions.
Show steps
  • 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
Enhance your understanding of bitumen's environmental impact and sustainable practices by creating a presentation on the topic.
Browse courses on Environmental Impact
Show steps
  • 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
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
Show steps
  • 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Mastering bitumen for better roads and innovative applications.
This textbook commonly used in academic institutions. It would serve as a good supplemental reading.
Serves as a textbook for the course, providing more depth on pavement analysis and design.
Serves as a useful reference tool, providing more depth and breadth to the syllabus and course description.
Comprehensive textbook on pavement engineering. It covers all aspects of pavement design, construction, and maintenance. It valuable resource for anyone working in the field of pavement engineering.
Comprehensive textbook on highway engineering. It covers all aspects of highway design, construction, and maintenance. It valuable resource for anyone working in the field of highway engineering.
Provides a basic overview of the historical and practical aspects of bitumen. This is most useful as a reference or textbook for background knowledge.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser