On July 1, 2025, new requirements for the quality of asphalt concrete mixes will come into force in Kazakhstan.

The changes have been made to national standard ST RK 1225-2019 “Asphalt concrete mixes for roads, airfields and asphalt concrete” and are aimed at improving the reliability of road infrastructure and reducing operational risks.

The updated standard was developed by the Kazakhstan Road Research Institute (KazdorNII). The tests and scientific research that formed the basis for the changes were carried out by scientists and specialists from the Institute, taking into account the actual road operating conditions and current international requirements.

The water saturation index of reformed asphalt concrete samples has been officially excluded from the standard.

"The decision is based on the results of laboratory studies, which showed that during the re-forming of asphalt concrete samples, intensive crushing of gravel occurs - up to 18% under standard compaction. This affects the structure of the material and distorts the test results, making the water saturation index irrelevant," KazdorNII noted.

The update of the standard is an important step towards an objective quality control system and increased efficiency in road construction. For contractors and manufacturers, this means the introduction of modern control methods adapted to real conditions; minimization of the risks of incorrect testing; clear and predictable technical requirements; and cost reduction through increased road pavement reliability.

Additional changes include revising the temperature regime for laying the mix; clarifying the compaction coefficient; specifying the requirements for the adhesion of stone material to bitumen; and expanding the scope of application of mixes to airfields, city streets, and industrial facilities.

As experts emphasize, the development and revision of such standards requires the mandatory participation of relevant scientific institutes, the use of instrumental tests, and comprehensive research. This approach ensures not only compliance with international requirements but also takes into account the specific climatic and operational conditions of Kazakhstan in real time.

For reference: The updated standard is coordinated with the Technical Regulations of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On the safety of buildings and structures, building materials and products” (TR RK No. 435 of June 9, 2023). This is part of the systematic work to improve the regulatory base in the road industry.