Bitumen black, and sticky material that occurs naturally or can be produced through refining crude oil, serves as an indispensable substance in our modern world. Its rich composition of complex organic materials gives it a distinct high viscosity, black hue, and remarkable adhesive properties. Functioning as a versatile solution, bitumen finds widespread application across diverse industries, providing essential waterproofing, sealing, and insulation capabilities. Notably, the construction of roads benefits greatly from bitumen's role as a robust binder. Beyond cost efficiency, it significantly minimizes maintenance requirements, thereby extending the lifespan of roads worldwide.
To ensure consistency and suitability for specific applications, bitumen is classified into different grades based on its properties. Refineries employ standard tests to measure viscosity, penetration value, performance, and consistency, enabling the categorization of bitumen into penetration grades and viscosity grades. This grading system allows industries to select the appropriate type of bitumen that meets their specific requirements, ensuring optimal performance and desired outcomes.
Grades
Penetration grade
Penetration grade bitumen is a classification system based on the hardness or softness of bitumen. Using a penetrometer, a standard needle is used to measure the depth of penetration into a bitumen sample. The lower the penetration value, the harder the bitumen. Grades like 30/40 are considered the hardest, while 100/120 is the softest. These penetration grades are commonly used in road paving applications, offering durability and longevity. Each grade has specific applications and performs differently in various conditions, providing flexibility for different construction needs.
Viscosity grade
Viscosity grade bitumen, on the other hand, is categorized based on its viscosity at a specific temperature. Viscosity is a measure of a fluid's resistance to flow, and higher viscosity indicates greater resistance. Grades such as VG 10, VG 20, VG 30, and VG 40 are used to classify bitumen based on their viscosity properties. Each grade has its own applications and behaves differently under different temperature conditions. For example, VG 10 is often used for surface coating and spraying applications. The viscosity grading system ensures accurate and reliable specifications, allowing for informed decision-making based on the specific requirements of a project.
Areas of application
Road Construction
- Asphalt concrete
Waterproofing
- Roofing materials
Civil Engineering
- Dams, Reservoirs, Canals