Bitumen

Bitumen is the black, viscous binder left after the distillation of crude oil. It holds aggregate together in asphalt and is the main material for road surfacing, waterproofing and roofing.

Grades are classified by penetration, by viscosity or by their modification. Each grade below is set out in its own block.

Penetration Grade Bitumen 60/70

A harder paving grade, penetration 60 to 70 (0.1 mm) at 25 °C. Common for hot climates and heavy traffic.

Penetration Grade Bitumen 80/100

A softer paving grade, penetration 80 to 100 (0.1 mm) at 25 °C, for milder climates and lighter traffic. Also known as 85/100 in some markets.

Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/50

The hardest of the common penetration grades, penetration 40 to 50 (0.1 mm) at 25 °C. Used in very hot climates and heavy-duty pavements.

Viscosity Grade Bitumen VG10

A viscosity-graded paving bitumen (grading by viscosity at 60 °C, e.g. IS 73 or ASTM D3381 families). The softest of the three VG grades, used for spraying and in cooler regions.

Viscosity Grade Bitumen VG30

A viscosity-graded paving bitumen, widely used for asphalt in heavy-traffic roads.

Viscosity Grade Bitumen VG40

The hardest of the three VG grades, used for highly stressed pavements such as intersections and heavy-load areas.

Oxidized Bitumen

Also called blown bitumen: bitumen treated with air at high temperature to raise its softening point and reduce temperature sensitivity. Used for roofing, waterproofing, pipe coating and industrial applications.

Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB)

Bitumen modified with polymers such as SBS to improve elasticity, rutting resistance and durability. Used for high-traffic roads, bridges and airports.

Standards named on this page are the references buyers commonly use to specify the product. They are not a statement of certification. The specification for each lot is set out in the offer and contract.

Available on request.