benefits and uses of oxidized bitumen 115/15, also known as hard bitumen or blown asphalt, is a type of bitumen that has been modified through oxidation to improve its properties. The “115/15” designation refers to its penetration grade, indicating its hardness and performance characteristics. This specific grade of oxidized bitumen is used in various applications due to its enhanced durability and stability. Here are some common uses:
- Roofing Materials: It is widely used in roofing membranes and as a component of asphalt shingles and roofing felt. Its resistance to heat and oxidation makes it suitable for withstanding harsh weather conditions.
- Road Construction: While less common than other types of bitumen, oxidized bitumen can be used in road construction for specific applications where a harder, more durable binder is needed.
- Waterproofing: It is employed in waterproofing products, including coatings and membranes, to create a barrier against water ingress.
- Industrial Applications: Its chemical resistance and stability make it useful in various industrial processes and products, including certain types of sealants and adhesives.
- Asphalt Emulsions: In some cases, it can be used to produce asphalt emulsions for specialized paving or maintenance applications.
- Corrosion Protection: It is used as a protective coating for metal surfaces to prevent rust and corrosion, particularly in harsh environments.
- Paving and Surface Treatments: In some paving applications, it is used for surface treatments that require a high degree of durability and resistance to wear and tear.
The choice of oxidized bitumen 115/15 is often driven by its specific properties, such as its high softening point and low penetration, which make it suitable for demanding applications where a more robust material is required.
When working with oxidized bitumen 115/15, several key properties and characteristics are important to understand:
- Penetration Grade: The designation “115/15” refers to the penetration grade of the bitumen. This indicates its hardness and consistency. Specifically, it means the bitumen has a penetration value of 115 at 25°C (77°F) and a penetration value of 15 at 0°C (32°F). This makes it relatively hard compared to other types of bitumen.
- Softening Point: The softening point of oxidized bitumen is higher than that of conventional bitumen, which means it can withstand higher temperatures without becoming too soft. This is crucial for applications where thermal stability is needed.
- Oxidation Process: Oxidized bitumen is produced by blowing air through hot bitumen, which increases its viscosity and alters its chemical structure. This process enhances its durability, oxidation resistance, and overall stability.
- Elasticity and Flexibility: Although harder and more rigid than some other types of bitumen, oxidized bitumen still needs to maintain a certain level of elasticity and flexibility to perform well in applications like roofing and waterproofing.
- Resistance to Aging: One of the key benefits of oxidized bitumen is its improved resistance to aging and weathering. It is less likely to degrade under prolonged exposure to sunlight, oxygen, and other environmental factors.
- Durability: Its hardness contributes to greater durability and resistance to wear and tear, making it suitable for applications that require long-lasting performance.
- Adhesion Properties: For applications like roofing and waterproofing, the bitumen’s ability to adhere to various substrates is crucial. Oxidized bitumen generally has good adhesion properties, which enhances the effectiveness of roofing membranes and coatings.
- Application Temperature: The bitumen should be applied at the appropriate temperature to ensure proper bonding and performance. Its handling and application requirements can vary compared to softer bitumen grades.
- Compatibility with Other Materials: In some applications, oxidized bitumen may be combined with other materials or additives. Understanding its compatibility with these materials is important for achieving the desired performance in the final product.
- Comparing oxidized bitumen 115/15 to other grades of bitumen involves looking at various properties and performance characteristics. Here’s a comparative overview:
1. Penetration Grade
- Oxidized Bitumen 115/15: The penetration grade is 115 at 25°C and 15 at 0°C. This means it is relatively hard and stiff, providing enhanced durability and resistance to deformation under high temperatures.
- Other Grades: Penetration grades vary widely. For instance, Penetration Grade 60/70 has a penetration value of 60 at 25°C, indicating a softer bitumen compared to 115/15. Penetration Grade 85/100 is even softer, with higher penetration values, making it more suitable for colder climates or applications where flexibility is crucial.
2. Softening Point
- Oxidized Bitumen 115/15: Typically has a higher softening point, often above 80°C. This high softening point indicates better thermal stability, which means it remains more stable at elevated temperatures.
- Other Grades: For instance, Penetration Grade 60/70 has a lower softening point, generally around 50-60°C. Softer grades melt at lower temperatures and may deform more easily under heat.
3. Elasticity and Flexibility
- Oxidized Bitumen 115/15: Generally less flexible compared to softer grades, due to its higher viscosity and hardness. It is more rigid and resistant to deformation.
- Other Grades: Softer grades like Penetration Grade 85/100 are more flexible and elastic, which is beneficial for applications requiring adaptability and movement, such as in cold climates or flexible pavements.
4. Durability and Aging Resistance
- Oxidized Bitumen 115/15: Offers superior durability and resistance to aging due to the oxidation process, which makes it less susceptible to environmental degradation.
- Other Grades: Softer grades may not have the same level of resistance to aging and can become softer or degrade faster when exposed to sunlight and oxygen.
5. Application Temperature
- Oxidized Bitumen 115/15: Requires higher temperatures for application compared to softer bitumens. It is suitable for applications where high temperature stability is essential.
- Other Grades: Softer bitumens like Penetration Grade 60/70 can be applied at lower temperatures and are easier to work with in cooler conditions.
6. benefits and uses of oxidized bitumen 115/15
- Oxidized Bitumen 115/15: Commonly used in applications requiring high durability and stability, such as roofing membranes, waterproofing, and certain industrial applications.
- Other Grades: Softer grades like Penetration Grade 60/70 are often used in road paving and general construction where flexibility and ease of application are more critical.
7. Chemical and Environmental Resistance
- Oxidized Bitumen 115/15: Typically offers better resistance to chemicals and environmental factors due to its hardened nature.
- Other Grades: Softer bitumens may not be as resistant to harsh chemicals or extreme environmental conditions.
