Step 1: Understand Bitumen Penetration Grade.
The penetration test quantifies bitumen's hardness/softness by measuring the depth (in tenths of a millimeter) a standard needle penetrates under specified conditions.
Step 2: Apply Specified Grade.
Bitumen grade 80/100 signifies a penetration value range of 80 to 100 tenths of a millimeter, equivalent to 8.0 mm to 10.0 mm.
Step 3: Correlate with Options.
Option (B) is the accurate selection: 80 mm to 100 mm (expressed in tenths of a mm, or penetration units).
Step 4: Finalize.
Consequently, the penetration value for 80/100 grade bitumen is 80 to 100 (in 0.1 mm units), corresponding to option (B).
The recommended minimum traffic growth rate and design period considered for structural design of flexible pavements for national highways in India as per IRC 37:2018 is __________ percentage and _________ years, respectively.