Bitumen 10/20, a type of bitumen, is a viscous, sticky, and waterproof liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum. It is primarily composed of complex hydrocarbons and is obtained through the fractional distillation of crude oil.
In this case, Bitumen 10/20 is a medium-soft bitumen, widely used in road construction due to its excellent adhesive properties, waterproofing abilities, and durability.
In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the world of Bitumen 10/20, exploring its production process, applications, and the role it plays in shaping our infrastructure.
Description of Bitumen Grade 10/20
Bitumen 10/20 means the penetration value is in the range of 10 to 20 at the standard test. the penetration grade 10/20 softening point is between 58 to 66°C. This grade of bitumen is mainly used in the manufacture of hot mix asphalt for bases and wearing courses. Bitumen grade 10/20 is a premium brand that is dark brown or black in color similar to cement-shape semi-solid or viscous liquid form produced by the non-destructive refining of crude oil during petroleum refining.
Due to its desirable properties, Bitumen Grade 10/20 is extensively used in the construction of flexible pavements, such as asphalt roads and highways. It serves as a binder, holding the aggregates together and providing a durable, skid-resistant surface. This grade of bitumen is particularly suitable for base and binder courses in pavement construction, offering excellent resistance to deformation and fatigue cracking. Furthermore, Bitumen Grade 10/20 is often used in the production of asphalt concrete mixes, which are designed to withstand moderate to heavy traffic loads.
Its compatibility with various aggregates and its ability to form a strong bond between the particles contribute to the overall strength and durability of the pavement structure. Bitumen 10/20 excellent stability, load-bearing capacity, and resistance to deformation and fatigue cracking, Bitumen Grade 10/20 is a preferred choice for construction professionals seeking a reliable and durable binder material.
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Applications of Bitumen 10/20
Bitumen 10/20 is more applicable for the production of asphalt pavements with superior properties and for the construction and maintenance of roads. Also, this grade of asphalt is mainly used in spraying and chip applications. also, Paving Bitumen 10/20 is used in the Manufacturing of Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB).
Bitumen 10/20 is suitable for road construction and for asphalt pavements with superior properties. This type of bitumen is used in the manufacture of hot mix asphalt for bases and wearing courses and the main usage of this product is used in the road in mild regions. The bitumen is provided during the presses of oxidation of the vacuum bottom in bitumen production units. Due to its medium air blowing and penetration, it is used in mild areas.
- Road Construction: Bitumen 10/20 is widely used in road construction due to its exceptional binding properties. It serves as a binder in asphalt mixtures, providing durability, stability, and resistance to heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions. The flexibility of Bitumen 10/20 allows roads to withstand temperature-induced expansions and contractions.
- Waterproofing: With its waterproofing characteristics, Bitumen 60/70 is extensively used to protect structures from water damage. It is applied as a coating or membrane to roofs, foundations, and basements to prevent water penetration and ensure the longevity of buildings.
- Pavement Preservation: This grade of bitumen is essential in pavement preservation techniques such as chip sealing and micro-surfacing. It acts as an adhesive, holding aggregate particles together and providing a skid-resistant surface.
- Industrial Applications: Bitumen 10/20 finds use in various industrial applications, including soundproofing, electrical cable jointing, and corrosion protection. Its high resistance to heat and chemicals makes it a reliable choice for these purposes.
- Asphalt Emulsions: Bitumen 10/20 serves as a key ingredient in producing asphalt emulsions, which are used in surface treatments, prime coats, and tack coats. These emulsions enhance adhesion between layers of road surfaces.
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Properties of Bitumen 10/20
Bitumen Penetration 10/20 is classified based on penetration and viscosity, with the numbers representing the penetration depth in tenths of a millimeter at a standard temperature of 25°C. The “10” in 10/20 signifies that the bitumen has a penetration value between 10 and 20 at the specified temperature.
- Viscosity: Bitumen 10/20 displays moderate viscosity, making it suitable for a range of applications. Its viscosity determines its ability to flow and bind with aggregates, making it an essential binder in asphalt mixes.
- Penetration: The penetration value indicates the hardness of the bitumen. Bitumen 10/20 has a moderate penetration value, striking a balance between harder and softer grades, which makes it ideal for use in both high-traffic highways and residential roads.
- Elasticity: Bitumen 10/20 possesses good elasticity, enabling it to withstand varying temperatures and traffic loads without cracking. This characteristic is crucial for the longevity and durability of road surfaces.
- Adhesion: The adhesion properties of bitumen 10/20 ensure that it adheres well to aggregates, creating a stable and durable road surface. This attribute is particularly important for preventing aggregate dislodgement and enhancing road life.
Major Tests of Asphalt 10/20
we have 4 Tests for Asphalt 10/20:
- Penetration test: The penetration of a sharp object into a material is the usual criterion of consistency. This is the principle of the well-known penetration test for bitumen which was originally published in 1889. In the form standardized by the ASTM, it subsequently became the most frequently used test method.
- Softening Point Test: The consistency of a penetration grade or oxidized bitumen can also be measured by determining its softening pOint1157’1581. In this test, a steel ball (weight 3.5 g) is placed on a sample of bitumen contained in a brass ring that is then suspended in a water or glycerin bath.
- Ductility Test: Ductility is the property of bitumen that permits it to undergo great deformation or elongation. Ductility is defined as the distance in cm, to which a standard sample or briquette of the material will be elongated without breaking.
- viscosity test: Viscosity denotes the fluid property of the bituminous material and it is a measure of resistance to flow. At the application temperature, this characteristic greatly influences the strength of resulting paving mixes. Low or high viscosity during compaction or mixing has been observed to result in lower stability values
Healthy and Safety
workers should comply with these tips:
- Ventilation: workers anywhere working should have appropriate Ventilation Because Bitumen can release fumes when heated, which can be harmful if inhaled.
- Protective Equipment: workers should use heat-resistant gloves, safety shoes, long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and safety goggles.
- Fire Safety: Workers work with high temperatures for this reason Keep bitumen away from open flames or sparks and have appropriate fire extinguishing equipment on hand.
Challenges and Considerations of Bitumen 10/20 From UAE
1. Environmental Impact:
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): These contribute to smog and ground-level ozone formation, impacting human health and ecosystems.
- Particulate Matter: Dust particles irritate lungs and can worsen respiratory problems.
2.Transportation and Logistics:
- Temperature Sensitivity: Bitumen becomes very viscous at cooler temperatures, making pumping and transportation difficult. Heating the bitumen during transport requires extra energy and can increase emissions.
- Leakage and Spills: Spills during transport can contaminate soil and water, posing environmental risks.
3.Storage and Handling:
- Temperature Control: Bitumen needs to be stored at elevated temperatures to maintain workability. This constant heating consumes energy.
- Contamination Prevention: Bitumen is susceptible to contamination by water and other materials, which can compromise its performance. Storage facilities must prevent such contamination.
- Shelf-Life: Bitumen can degrade over time, losing its desirable properties. Storage facilities need to manage inventory to avoid using expired bitumen.
Guaranty and safety of Penetration 10/20
Our company guaranty the quality of asphalt penetration grade 10/20 with the arrangement of the international inspectors to check the quality and quantity of the asphalt penetration grade 10/20 during the loading to the vessel and controlling the production by QC by batch test report before shipping. Our company guarantees the quality to meet with ASTM.
Packing of Asphalt 10/20
- 1 MT Jumbo Bag with a steel cage and pallet: Loading 20 MT in 20 ft Container
- 1 MT Jumbo Bag without cage and pallet: Loading 20 MT in 40 ft Container
- 1300 Kg Jumbo Bag: Loading 26 MT in 40 ft Container
- 180kg New Steel Drum: Loading 110 Drum in 20 ft
- 375Kg Bitubag: Loading 24 MT in 20 ft Container
- Bulk in vessel: Loading 2000 to 20,000 MT in Bitumen Carrier
- Bulk in Flexi Bag: Loading 20 MT in Bitumen Felexi Bag
- Bulk in Tunker: Loading 25 MT in Truk Tanker
Specification of Bitumen Grade 10/20
| BITUMEN 10/20 | TEST METHOD | UNIT | SPECIFICATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specific gravity @ 25/25 °c | ASTM D70 | Kg/cm³ | 1.01-1.06 |
| Penetration @ 25°c | ASTM D5 | mm/10 | 10-20 |
| Softening point °c | ASTM D36 | °C | 58-66 |
| Ductility @ 25°c | ASTM D113 | cm | 100 min |
| Loss on heating(wt) % | ASTM D6 | wt % | 0.2 max |
| Drop in Penetration after heating % | ASTM D5-D6 | % | 20 max |
| Flashpoint °c | ASTM D92 | °C | 250 min |
| Solubility is CS2(wt) % | ASTM D4 | wt % | 99.5 max |
| Spot test | A.a.s.h.o.t102 | - | Negative |
