Different Bitumen Types and Grades
- weblognews1
- Oct 1, 2023
- 2 min read
Bitumen, a dark brown to black viscous binding hydrocarbon compound, is manufactured from crude oil through a refining process involving the distillation of crude oil. Initially, bitumen is solid in its form but undergoes a transformation, transitioning into a paste and ultimately becoming a liquid as temperature levels rise. Notably, bitumen exhibits complete solubility in carbon sulfide and carbon tetrachloride.
One of the standout characteristics of bitumen is its remarkable resistance to water, oil, and adhesion. This unique property positions bitumen as the premier binding agent for a multitude of applications. It finds extensive use in the construction industry, serving as a crucial component in asphalt for road surfaces, as well as being an indispensable material in waterproofing and roof sealing applications.
Types of bitumen
Gilsonite (Natural Bitumen): A Geological Marvel
Gilsonite, also known as natural bitumen, is a geological wonder that exists in a solid state within the shallow layers of the Earth's crust. Occasionally, it surges forth from beneath the Earth's surface, making its presence known to humanity. Notably, it stands in contrast to conventional surface crude oil, as its lighter components have gradually evaporated over time, leaving behind a residue that transforms into bitumen. This substance boasts a heavier hydrocarbon composition and exhibits superior durability compared to typical petroleum-based bitumen.
Penetration Grade Bitumen: Resilience for Roadways
Penetration grade bitumen is a prevalent choice for road construction, renowned for its exceptional resistance and durability in the face of temperature fluctuations. The grading of penetration (PEN) bitumen spans a range from 15 to 450, with the most commonly utilized varieties falling within the 25 to 200 range.
Bitumen 60/70, often referred to as paving grade bitumen, reigns supreme in road construction and waterproofing applications for buildings. Its versatility stems from its ability to function effectively across a wide temperature spectrum, from as low as -22 degrees Celsius to as high as +76 degrees Celsius.
Production of penetration grade bitumen yields a variety of viscosities, all derived from refinery bitumen. To ascertain the hardness of bitumen, a penetration test is performed, hence the term "Penetration grade bitumen." This test employs a penetrometer apparatus to determine the bitumen's classification by measuring its resistance to penetration. A deeper needle penetration signifies softer bitumen, while shallow penetration indicates harder bitumen.
Grading bitumen based on penetration assists in determining its suitability for diverse construction methods and climates. Considerations such as regional average temperatures and traffic volume must be factored in when selecting the appropriate bitumen for a specific application. For instance, bitumen 40/50 is characterized by its hard consistency, with the first number denoting minimum penetration and the second indicating maximum penetration. As a reference point, bitumen 40/50 ranks among the hardest, whereas 85/100 stands as one of the softer varieties.
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