What competitive advantages can Kazakhstan bitumen factories get by introducing Superpave technology, the head of the science department of JSC "KazdorNII" Kairat Mukhambetkaliev in a conversation with a correspondent of NUR.KZ shared with NUR.KZ, why it is important for Kazakhstan's plants to move to modern technology Superpave ("Superpave").

The introduction of Superpave in the pilot mode was announced last year. Could you tell us, please, what are the advantages of the technology? Why was it chosen?

If we compare it with traditional approaches to selecting asphalt concrete mixes, Superpave takes into account real factors - temperature range and traffic loads. There is even a difference in terminology: here it is called asphalt mix selection, while abroad it is called design (e.g. Superpave Mix Design). Superpave technology is successfully applied in more than 30 countries, including the USA and Canada, has been introduced in Russia, and China is actively studying its advantages. The use of Superpave will allow Kazakhstan to meet international standards of highway construction, increasing its durability and resistance to temperature changes. Moreover, Kazakhstan will be the first country in Central Asia to implement this technology, which will strengthen its position as a regional leader in road construction.

The Superpave mix selection methodology itself is more efficient. In the traditional approach, 12 indicators are evaluated over 15 days, whereas Superpave takes only 4 indicators (particle size distribution, residual porosity, water resistance and rutting) and the process takes only 4 days.

For example, in Russia, work on the introduction of Superpave began about 10 years ago. Bitumen plants have already adapted to the new requirements and standards. Two decades ago, the share of polymer bitumen production in Russia was only 3%, and now it has reached 30%. In Kazakhstan, this figure does not exceed 1%.

So the introduction of Superpave requires a different type of bitumen?

Yes, it is necessary to modify it or use polymer bitumen. Earlier the specialists of the institute have already dealt with this issue, and we have the relevant developments.

Has KazdorNII managed to establish cooperation with Kazakh enterprises specializing in bitumen production?

We hope that all domestic plants producing bitumen, actively involved in this work. However, at the moment only two plants have responded - “QazaqBitum” and “KazakhBitum Service”. These enterprises are already developing production of modified and polymer bitumen. KazdorNII has signed memorandums of cooperation with them, and joint work is proceeding at an active pace. It is important to realize that those who are the first to master the Superpave methodology will have a competitive advantage in the future.

What exactly does the Institute expect from Kazakhstan bitumen plants?

The main task is to learn how to produce bitumen according to Superpave standards. It is obvious that without active participation of all participants of road construction Swage to international standards will be difficult and slow. It is one thing when the technology is studied in a laboratory, and quite another when it can be tested at the plant. Superpave technology was not chosen by chance: it is the most practical and effective for Kazakhstan's harsh continental climate. Enterprises should already think about modernizing their production in accordance with the current standards.

Why do you think not all enterprises are actively implementing new standards and integrating Superpave into their work?

Perhaps not everyone realizes the importance of technological progress. As you know, any innovation is not always perceived with enthusiasm. The need for Swage to international standards and the introduction of this technology was mentioned by the President of the country in his speech and repeatedly stated in the Ministry of Transport. Since Superpave is adapted to the specifics of each region, bitumen plants should realize that first of all it is beneficial for them. Adapting production to international standards, such as Superpave, significantly increases the quality of bitumen and, accordingly, its competitiveness, including at the international level.

You spoke about the potential competitive advantages of companies that will start working with Superpave before others. What kind of advantages are we talking about?

Firstly, as I have already mentioned, it is an increase in the quality of bitumen, which will meet international standards. Secondly, an increase in competitiveness and access to the international level. Thirdly, the enterprises will have an opportunity to improve the competence and qualification of personnel capable of working according to the new standards. Of course, the first phase will require certain investments, but these costs will be recouped in the future.

This issue should be approached comprehensively - starting with laboratory selection of mixes and scientific substantiation during design, as well as providing scientific and technical support during road construction. For this purpose, a roadmap for the introduction of Superpave technology has already been developed. Joint work with the technology developers from the USA is underway. The Institute is also ready to train specialists in its competence center, as we already have qualified personnel capable of transferring the necessary knowledge to employees of enterprises.

When will Superpave start testing in real conditions?

This year we will start applying the technology in pilot mode. Earlier, QazAvtoJol considered the possibility of allocating three sections for each climatic zone. So far, one section has been identified, where Superpave will be tested. We hope that local executive bodies will also show interest and provide more sections for the pilot project, which will allow for a comprehensive testing of the technology in different conditions.