Introduction. Increasing the durability of pavement structures and harmonizing the national regulatory framework with European standards are key tasks for Ukraine’s road sector. The quality of stone mastic asphalt (SMA), as one of the most effective materials for surface courses, directly depends on the relevance of regulatory requirements. In Ukraine, these requirements were standardized by DSTU B V.2.7-127:2015 until 2024. However, in order to introduce modern approaches, a new standard, DSTU 9290-5:2024, has been developed and adopted.
Problem Statement. Analysis shows that the requirements of DSTU B V.2.7-127:2015, although providing a basic quality level, had a number of shortcomings: insufficiently strict requirements for the geometric characteristics of aggregates, reliance on outdated nomenclature of bituminous binders, and most importantly, the absence of testing methods directly assessing asphalt performance, in particular rutting resistance. Such discrepancies with European practice restrained the real service life improvement of road pavements.
Objective. To carry out a detailed comparative analysis of the requirements for stone mastic asphalt mixtures and SMA according to DSTU B V.2.7-127:2015 and the new DSTU 9290-5:2024, in order to identify key innovations and scientifically substantiate their impact on improving road construction quality.
Methods. A comparative analysis of regulatory documents was conducted, including classification, requirements for components (aggregates, binders, additives), grading curves, physical and mechanical properties, as well as technological aspects and quality control methods.
Results. It was established that the new DSTU 9290-5:2024 introduces fundamental changes. Requirements for aggregate particle shape were strengthened. The regulatory framework for binders was updated, emphasizing modern modified bitumens. The most important innovation is the introduction of mandatory rutting resistance testing, marking the first step towards performance-based evaluation. In addition, quality control was significantly reinforced by halving the batch size and integrating modern European testing methods from the EN 12697 series.
Conclusions. The analysis proves that DSTU 9290-5:2024 is not merely an update but a systemic reform, marking the transition from a predominantly prescriptive approach to a performance-oriented one. The implementation of the new standard provides the regulatory foundation for producing more durable SMA and ensures deep harmonization with the European technical framework, which is a necessary condition for improving the quality and reliability of Ukraine’s road network.
