Bitumen 60/70 Dubai UAE: Properties, Uses, and Applications

Bitumen 60/70 , a vital component in the realm of road construction, stands out as a semi-hard penetration grade bitumen, commonly employed in crafting asphalt pavements. Its defining feature lies in its penetration value, ranging between 60 to 70 decimeters under standard test conditions. This unique characteristic, along with its remarkable versatility, has propelled Bitumen 60/70 to the forefront of road construction materials.

What is Bitumen 60/70?

Bitumen 60/70 is a semi-hard penetration grade bitumen used as a paving grade bitumen, suitable for road construction and repair, and for the production of asphalt pavements with superior properties. It is one of the most commonly used bitumen grades worldwide, and it is a basic material for all other bituminous products.

Definition of Bitumen Penetration Grade 60/70

A grade of Bitumen 60/70 means the penetration value is in the range of 60 to 70 at standard test conditions which are usually used as a Paving Grade. The full name of this grade is Bitumen Penetration grade 60/70 but the short names is Bitume 60/70.

Bitumen penetration grade 60/70 is semi-hard penetration grade bitumen used as paving grade bitumen suitable for road construction and repair conjointly for the production of asphalt pavements. this grade is very appropriate for Road Construction in a wide range of temperatures (from -22 to +76). The Bitumen mode is dependent on temperature. The temperature-vs-stiffness relationship of bitumen is dependent on the type of crude oil and its refining method.  it’s a basic material for all other bituminous products

Penetration determines the hardness of bitumen by measuring the depth to which a standard loaded needle will vertically penetrate in 5 seconds, in a sample of bitumen maintained at a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius.

According to the ASTM D36 method, the softening point of this grade of bitumen is between 49 and 56 ° C and the flash point of this grade of bitumen is 250 ° C.

Explanation of Bitumen Penetration Grade 60/70

Bitumen 60/70 is produced from vacuum residue, which is the leftover material from the distillation of crude oil. Vacuum residue is blown with hot air to remove lighter hydrocarbons and produce bitumen. The blowing process also controls the penetration grade of the bitumen.

Bitumen 60/70 is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, with a wide range of molecular weights. The exact composition of bitumen 60/70 varies depending on the source of the crude oil and the blowing process. However, it is generally composed of asphaltenes, resins, and maltenes.

Asphaltenes are the heaviest and most polar components of bitumen 60/70. They are responsible for the bitumen’s hardness and black color. Resins are less polar than asphaltenes and are responsible for the bitumen’s adhesion to aggregates. Maltenes are the lightest and least polar components of bitumen 60/70. They are responsible for the bitumen’s flexibility.

Importance of Bitumen 60/70 in Hot Mix Asphalt

Asphalt 60/70 is the most widely used bitumen grade in hot mix asphalt (HMA). HMA is a type of asphalt pavement that is made by mixing together aggregates, bitumen, and filler. The bitumen acts as a binder, holding the aggregates together and giving the pavement its strength and flexibility.

Bitumen 60/70 is a good choice for HMA because it has the right balance of softness and hardness. It is soft enough to allow the aggregates to be mixed together easily, but it is hard enough to provide the necessary strength and flexibility to the pavement.

Here are some of the benefits of using bitumen 60/70 in HMA:

• Improved pavement performance: Bitumen 60/70 helps to improve the pavement’s resistance to cracking, rutting, and fatigue.
• Reduced maintenance costs: Bitumen 60/70 can help to extend the life of the pavement, which can reduce maintenance costs.
• Sustainable construction: Bitumen 60/70 is a renewable resource that can be produced from recycled materials.

History of Bitumen 60/70

Bitumen 60/70 was first developed in the early 1900s and has been used in road construction ever since. It is a versatile material that can be used in a variety of conditions, making it a popular choice for road builders. Bitumen 60/70 is also used in roofing and waterproofing applications because of its water-resistant properties.

In recent years, there has been some concern about the environmental impact of bitumen 60/70. Bitumen is a petroleum product, and its production can contribute to air pollution. However, there are now a number of environmentally friendly bitumen products on the market, and these are becoming increasingly popular.

Application Of Bitumen 60/70

1. Road Construction

• Paving Grade: Used as a binder in asphalt mixtures for constructing roads, highways, and pavements, providing durability and stability.

2. Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA)

• Asphalt Pavements: Commonly used in HMA, where it binds aggregates and ensures flexibility and strength in the pavement.

3. Pavement Preservation

• Chip Sealing and Micro-Surfacing: Acts as an adhesive to hold aggregate particles together, extending the lifespan of existing pavements.

4. Waterproofing

• Coatings and Membranes: Utilized in roofing and foundation applications to prevent water penetration and protect structures.

5. Industrial Applications

• Soundproofing and Corrosion Protection: Used in various industrial settings for sound insulation and protecting equipment from corrosion.

6. Asphalt Emulsions

• Surface Treatments: Serves as a key ingredient in producing asphalt emulsions for tack coats and prime coats, enhancing adhesion.

7. Manufacturing Modified Bitumen

• Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB): Bitumen 60/70 is used to create PMB, which offers enhanced properties for specialized applications.

8. Repair and Maintenance

• Patch Repairs: Used for repairing damaged pavement and maintaining road surfaces, ensuring longevity and safety.

The production process of Bitumen 60/70

1. Crude oil distillation: Crude oil is heated to separate it into different fractions based on their boiling points. The heavier fractions, such as asphalt, are collected for further processing.

2. Vacuum residue preparation: The heavier fractions from the distillation process are further processed to remove lighter hydrocarbons and produce vacuum residue. This is done through a process called vacuum distillation.

3. Oxidation: Hot air is blown into the vacuum residue to oxidize the asphaltenes and control the penetration grade of the bitumen. The oxidation process also improves the bitumen’s adhesion to aggregates.

4. Blending: Different grades of bitumen may be blended to achieve the desired properties for the final product. For example, a harder bitumen may be blended with a softer bitumen to achieve the desired penetration grade.

5. Storage and transportation: The finished bitumen is stored in tanks and transported to refineries or paving sites.

Here is a more detailed explanation of each step:

1. Crude oil distillation

Crude oil is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons that can be separated into different fractions based on their boiling points. This is done through a process called fractional distillation. In fractional distillation, crude oil is heated in a distillation column. The lighter fractions, such as gasoline and diesel, vaporize and rise to the top of the column, where they are collected. The heavier fractions, such as asphalt, remain at the bottom of the column.

2. Vacuum residue preparation

The heavier fractions from the distillation process are further processed to remove lighter hydrocarbons and produce vacuum residue. This is done through a process called vacuum distillation. In vacuum distillation, the pressure is reduced, which lowers the boiling points of the hydrocarbons. This allows the lighter hydrocarbons to vaporize at a lower temperature, while the heavier hydrocarbons, such as asphalt, remain as a liquid residue.

3. Oxidation

Hot air is blown into the vacuum residue to oxidize the asphaltenes and control the penetration grade of the bitumen. The oxidation process also improves the bitumen’s adhesion to aggregates. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that involves the addition of oxygen to a molecule. In the case of bitumen oxidation, the asphaltenes are oxidized, which makes them more polar and improves their adhesion to aggregates. The oxidation process also breaks down some of the larger molecules in the bitumen, which makes the bitumen softer and more flexible.

4. lending

Different grades of bitumen may be blended to achieve the desired properties for the final product. For example, a harder bitumen may be blended with a softer bitumen to achieve the desired penetration grade. Blending is a simple process that involves mixing two or more different grades of bitumen together. The amount of each grade of bitumen that is used is determined by the desired properties of the final product.

5. Storage and transportation

The finished bitumen is stored in tanks and transported to refineries or paving sites. Bitumen is a viscous material that can be difficult to transport. To make it easier to transport, bitumen is heated to a temperature where it becomes a liquid. Bitumen can be transported in trucks, rail cars, or barges.

Uses of Bitumen 60-70

Dubai Bitumen 60/70 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 60/70 is used in the Manufacturing of Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB).

Bitumen 60/70 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 60/70 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 60/70 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 60/70 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 60/70 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.
• Hot mix asphalt: Bitumen 60/70 is a commonly used binder in HMA. It is a moderately hard bitumen that has a penetration grade of 60-70. This means that it is soft enough to be workable at paving temperatures, but hard enough to provide the HMA with the necessary strength and durability.

Major Tests of  Asphalt 60/70

we have 4 Tests for Asphalt 60/70:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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

Where to Buy Bitumen 60/70 in Dubai UAE

Bitukim Co. registered in UAE is one of the market leaders in trade, exports, and brokerage of different types of Bitumen refinery with excellent quality. also, Bitukim Co. is known for its superior service quality and excellent technical understanding & support of the customers as well as fast and faithful reaction to the customer needs with respect and confidence. Quality, technical/ price/ service competence, consistency, and prompt responsiveness to customer needs have always been our forte which has won us pleased customers from around the globe and has given us the chance to be the preferred trusted commercial FRIEND of many companies around the world. If you are more interested in product information or need to place an order contact or inquire about our Sales team.

Destinations of Bitumen 60-70

Some of the destinations to which we export Bitumen 60/70 :

• Qatar
• Kuwait
• UAE
• China
• Malaysia
• Thailand
• Vietnam
• India
• Somalia
• Romania
• Myanmar (Burma)
• Liberia
• Kenya

Properties of Penetration 60/70

Bitumen 60/70 is commonly used to manufacture asphalt mixes, asphalt emulsion, cut-back bitumen, and modified bitumen. Bitumen 60/70 has the highest boiling point, heaviest, and most polar fraction from the vacuum distillation of crude oil. Aphalt 60/70 is composed of asphaltene and maltene.

The heavy insoluble asphaltene molecules give bitumen 60/70 of its body and softening point while the maltenes are oily and make asphalt flexible. Asphaltene molecules are soluble in aromatic solvents like toluene but insoluble in heptane. The maltenes are heptane-soluble molecules and less aromatic. Penetration-grade asphalt supplied by BituKim is pure petroleum-grade asphalt, manufactured from a vacuum bottom by passing hot air.

The asphalt supplied by Rahaoil is produced from the remains of crude oil after cracking and removing hydrocarbon. Penetration grade bitumen 60/70 has penetration between 60~70 desi-millimeter and a softening point between 49 ~ and 56C. The penetration grade asphalt 60/70 has a thermoplastic property which is like a synthetic resin material that gets softer with heating and hardens when cooled. This grade of asphalt 60/70 has a very strong viscosity compared to other grades.

The most common grade is Asphalt 60/70 which can be used for many applications. The penetration bituminous asphalt with high penetration numbers which is soft is mostly used in cold weather conditions, and hard bituminous asphalt (low penetration number) can be used in warm weather conditions.

Characteristics of Bitumen 60/70

• Penetration grade: 60-70
• Softening point: 45-55°C
• Flashpoint: >200°C
• Fire point: >230°C
• Viscosity: 130-160 cSt at 100°C
• Density: 1.00-1.02 g/cm³
• Asphaltene content: 15-25%
• Resin content: 20-30%
• Maltene content: 45-60%

Density of Bitumen 60/70

According to the ASTM D36 method, the softening point of bitumen 60/70 is between 49 to 56 °C, and the flash point of bitumen 60/70 is 250 °C. Another important factor is density. Due to the ASTM D70, the density of bitumen 60/70 is equal to 1.0344.

The density of Bitumen 60/70 can vary depending on factors such as temperature and specific composition. However, as a general guideline, the density of Bitumen 60/70 is typically around 1.01 to 1.05 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cm³) at room temperature (20°C or 68°F). It’s important to note that bitumen density can change with temperature variations.

Challenges and Considerations of Bitumen 60/70 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 60/70

Our company guaranty the quality of asphalt penetration grade 60/70 with the arrangement of the international inspectors to check the quality and quantity of the asphalt penetration grade 60/70 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.

Different Packing of Asphalt 60/70

• • Bitumen 60/70 in 1 MT Jumbo Bag with a steel cage and pallet: Loading 20 MT in 20 ft Container

  

  • Bitumen 80/100 in 1 MT Jumbo Bag without  cage and pallet: Loading 20 MT in 40 ft Container

  

  • Bitumen 60/70 in 1300 Kg Jumbo Bag: Loading 26 MT in 40 ft Container

  

  • Bitumen 60/70 in 180kg New Steel Drum: Loading 110 Drum in 20 ft

  

  • Asphalt 60/70 in 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 Asphalt Penetration 60/70

BITUMEN 60/70	TEST METHOD	UNIT	SPECIFICATION
Specific gravity @ 25/25 °c	ASTM D70	Kg/cm³	1.01-1.06
Penetration @ 25°c	ASTM D5	mm/10	60-70
Softening point °c	ASTM D36	°C	49-56
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	232 min
Solubility is CS2(wt) %	ASTM D4	wt %	99 max
Spot test	A.a.s.h.o.t102	-	Negative