The Asphalt Institute (AI) is pleased to announce the new National Binder Technician Certification (NBTC) program.
AI has been active in technical training in the field of asphalt technology since the 1920s. In recent years, the Institute has hosted hundreds of training and certification courses and taught thousands of students. Drawing from this experience and input from recognized centers of excellence nationwide, AI is prepared to provide a comprehensive, standardized, best practice protocol for PG asphalt binder testing.

The text for the NBTC program, MS-25 Asphalt Binder Testing , was introduced by AI in February 2007. Drawing on the practical laboratory expertise of AMRL, FHWA, Asphalt Institute and leading industry experts, MS-25 is the comprehensive link between standards and the technician – providing essential information needed to perform PG system tests. It also covers terminology, handling asphalt binders and temperature measurements.

The objectives of the NBTC are to:

• Provide a concise, standard interpretation of test methods
• Promote a consistent laboratory best-practice
• Decrease retesting
• Help reduce penalties, deducts and disputes
• Tighten the precision and bias statements in published standards
• Increase confidence in data for use in product development

More information about the National Binder Certification Program

To become a Certified Binder Technician, a candidate must have work experience with the testing of asphalt binders for compliance with the PG specification (AASHTO M320).  Candidates must have either six (6) months of experience or sixty days working directly under an NBTC certified technician before attempting to achieve certification. NBTC Program attendance requires a completed application form and approval.

Current Scheduled Programs

November 4-6, 2008 – Asphalt Institute, Lexington, Kentucky

December 16-18, 2008 – The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas

Questions?
For more information about the Asphalt Institute National Binder Technician Certification Program, please contact: