This award will support a U.S.-Italy Workshop on asphaltic materials. The activity is being organized by Professor Paul Jennings of Montana State University and Professor Carlo Giavarini of the University of Rome. The subject of the workshop will be restricted to the chemical components of bitumens and the ways in which the components interact in the neat asphalt. The agenda includes presentation of research results and new techniques for achieving such results, and allows ample time for discussion and exchange of ideas. Although asphaltic materials (bitumens) have been used extensively around the world for roadway paving, for roofing and for other purposes, the chemistry of these materials, which determines their behavior, has been poorly understood. However, research in this area has been gaining momentum rapidly and interchange of information and ideas among scientists from different countries will play an important role in future efforts. This workshop will permit a rapid exchange of information among the participants, thus promoting progress in individual research. Furthermore, the proceedings of the conference, including all presentations and transcriptions of discussions, will be published and disseminated not only among the participants but also to other interested scientists.
