Between PG 82-22 and PG 76-28, which is better for resisting rutting?

• A. PG 76-28
• B. PG 64-22
• C. PG 58-34
• D. PG 82-22

Answer: (D)

Rutting resistance is governed by how stiff the asphalt binder remains at hot pavement temperatures. In a PG specification, the first number is the high-temperature grade; a higher value means the binder stays stiffer up to that temperature and is less prone to deform under wheel loads. Between the two options, 82-22 has the higher high-temperature rating (82°C) compared with 76-28 (76°C). That extra stiffness at high temperatures makes it better at resisting rutting. The second number (22 vs 28) relates to low-temperature performance and cold cracking, which doesn’t directly affect rutting, so it’s not the deciding factor here. Therefore, the binder with the higher high-temperature rating—PG 82-22—resists rutting better.