Multivariate chemo-rheological framework for optimizing laboratory aging protocols of paving binders

• The FTIR region from 710 to 912 cm −1 was found to be crucial for predicting binder stiffness. • A multiple linear regression model accurately predicted the effects of aging due to time, temperature, and pressure. • Euclidean distance analysis identified laboratory conditions closely resembling real-world field aging. • Support vector regression models effectively predicted the duration of field aging based on laboratory aging conditions This study aims to improve laboratory aging procedures for bituminous materials to better replicate field conditions. Two binders and mixtures were subjected to various levels of humidity, temperatures, pressures, film thicknesses, and aging durations. By comparing these lab-aged samples to field-aged samples, the study aims to simulate real-world aging more accurately. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and frequency sweep tests were employed to analyse these samples. Multivariate techniques—Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Multiple Linear Regression (MLR), and Support Vector Regression (SVR)—were used to explore chemical and rheological relationships, evaluate the interchangeability of aging factors, and quantify the equivalency between laboratory and field aging. The findings revealed that increased temperature, pressure, and duration lead to more oxidative products. The PCA distinguished between two binders and aging trends, highlighting the importance of both FTIR and rheological measurements. The SVR model demonstrated strong predictive performance for rheological properties, identifying critical FTIR region, 710–912 -1 cm. By MLR model, optimal aging conditions to simulate nine years of field aging for porous asphalt and stone mastic asphalt were back-calculated. The Euclidean distance found laboratory conditions that closely match field-aged samples. SVR models provided predictions of simulated field aging time for various laboratory aging conditions.