Bitumen 80/100 is produced by refining crude oil. The crude oil is first heated to separate the lighter components from the heavier components. The heavier components are then further processed to produce bitumen. Bitumen 80/100 is a viscous liquid at high temperatures, but it becomes solid at lower temperatures. This property makes it ideal for use in asphalt pavements, as it provides the necessary strength and flexibility to withstand the stresses of traffic.
What is Bitumen 80/100?
Bitumen Penetration 80/100 is a type of asphalt binder commonly used in road construction. It is a black, sticky material derived from petroleum. The number 80/100 refers to the penetration grade of the bitumen, which is a measure of its hardness. Bitumen 80/100 is a medium-hard bitumen, making it ideal for various climates and applications.
the Bitumen 80/100 means The numbers 800 and 100 in bitumen 800/100 refer to the penetration and softening point of the bitumen, respectively. Penetration is a measure of how easily a bitumen can be penetrated by a standard needle, and the softening point is the temperature at which a bitumen becomes soft and pliable.
Bitumen Penetration Grade 80/100 is a standard penetration grade Bitumen usually used as a Paving Grade Bitumen suitable for road construction and for the production of asphalt pavements with superior properties. this grade of Bitumen is mainly used in the manufacture of hot mix asphalt for bases and wearing courses.
Definition of Bitumen 80/100
Bitumen is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, primarily asphaltenes and maltenes. Asphaltenes are heavy, polar molecules that give bitumen its black color and sticky consistency. Maltenes are lighter, non-polar molecules that act as a carrier for the asphaltenes. The relative proportions of asphaltenes and maltenes in bitumen determine its properties.
The production process of Bitumen 80/100
1. Crude oil distillation
Crude oil is first distilled into different fractions, including gasoline, kerosene, and diesel fuel. The residue from the distillation process is called the vacuum bottom, which is the feedstock for bitumen production. Through a process called distillation, crude oil is separated into various fractions based on their boiling points. The heavier fractions, including vacuum residue, serve as the starting point for Bitumen 80/100 production.
2. Vacuum residue treatment
Vacuum residue, the heavy fraction obtained from crude oil distillation, undergoes further processing to remove impurities and adjust its viscosity. This stage may involve deasphalting, where asphaltenes, large molecules that can affect bitumen properties, are separated. Solvent extraction may also be employed to remove undesirable components.
3. Air blowing
The heart of Bitumen 80/100 production lies in air blowing, a controlled oxidation process. Treated vacuum residue is introduced into an air-blowing tower, where it encounters a stream of hot air at around 250°C. This oxidation process modifies the molecular structure of the vacuum residue, transforming it into Bitumen 80/100.
The airflow rate during air blowing is carefully controlled to achieve the desired degree of oxidation. This oxidation process not only alters the viscosity of the bitumen but also produces asphaltenes, complex molecules that contribute to the bitumen’s adhesive properties.
4. Blending
To achieve the optimal properties for specific paving applications, Bitumen 80/100 undergoes blending. Here, the bitumen is mixed with various additives, such as polymers, modifiers, and fillers. These additives fine-tune the bitumen’s properties, such as penetration grade, softening point, and ductility, ensuring it meets the specific requirements of the intended application.
5. Storage and transportation
Once the blending process is complete, the finished Bitumen 80/100 is carefully stored and transported to its destination. Storage tanks are designed to maintain the bitumen’s quality, preventing premature aging or contamination. Transportation methods, such as trucks or railcars, are carefully chosen to ensure the bitumen’s integrity during delivery.
The Different Weather of Bitumen 80/100
Bitumen 80/100, a penetration-grade bitumen with a relatively soft consistency, exhibits different behaviors and properties in various weather conditions.
- Hot Weather: In hot weather, Bitumen 80/100 becomes softer and more pliable due to the elevated temperatures. This softening allows it to mix well with aggregates during asphalt production, aiding in proper compaction and adhesion. However, in extremely hot conditions, there is a risk of the bitumen becoming overly soft, which could lead to deformation under heavy traffic loads. To mitigate this, additives or modifiers can be used to improve its high-temperature stability.
- Cold Weather: Bitumen 80/100 retains some flexibility even in cold temperatures. It does not become overly brittle, making it suitable for use in colder climates. Its ability to maintain some flexibility helps prevent cracking in pavements caused by temperature fluctuations. However, it’s important to note that extremely low temperatures can still impact its performance, and in such cases, specialized cold-mix asphalt formulations might be used.
- Rain and Moisture: Bitumen 80/100 is inherently waterproof and offers good protection against moisture intrusion. It is commonly used in waterproofing applications such as sealing roofs, foundations, and basements. Rain and moisture do not significantly affect its properties, making it a reliable choice for applications where water resistance is essential.
- Freezing and Thawing Cycles: Bitumen 80/100’s ability to remain somewhat flexible during freezing temperatures helps it withstand the expansion and contraction cycles that occur during freezing and thawing. This property contributes to the durability of asphalt pavements in regions that experience seasonal temperature changes.
- UV Radiation and Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV radiation can lead to the oxidation and aging of bitumen, causing it to become more brittle over time. To mitigate this effect, additives and coatings can be used to protect the bitumen from UV radiation and extend its service life.
- Humidity and Salt Exposure: Bitumen 80/100 is generally resistant to humidity and salt exposure, making it suitable for use in coastal areas or regions where de-icing salts are commonly used on roads.
- Extreme Weather Conditions: While Bitumen 80/100 performs well in a wide range of weather conditions, in extreme situations, such as severe heatwaves or extreme cold snaps, its properties could be challenged. In such cases, engineering solutions and material modifications might be required to ensure optimal performance.
Usage of Bitumen 80/100
Dubai Bitumen 80/100 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 80/100 is used in the Manufacturing of Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB).
Dubai Bitumen 80/100 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 80/100 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 80/100 allows roads to withstand temperature-induced expansions and contractions.
- Waterproofing: With its waterproofing characteristics, Bitumen 80/100 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 80/100 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: Asphalt 80/100 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.
Application of bitumen penetration grade 80/100
1. Road Construction:
One of the primary applications of Bitumen 80/100 in road construction is as a binding agent for asphalt pavements. It acts as a glue, holding together aggregate materials, such as gravel, sand, and crushed stone, to form a cohesive and strong road surface. This binding property ensures that the pavement can withstand heavy traffic loads and resist deformation under various weather conditions.
Bitumen 80/100 also plays a vital role in waterproofing asphalt pavements. Its ability to repel water prevents moisture from penetrating the pavement structure, which can lead to premature deterioration and cracking. By keeping the pavement watertight, Bitumen 80/100 contributes to the longevity and durability of road surfaces.
Here are some advantages of road construction applications:
- Durability: Bitumen 80/100 is a highly durable material that can withstand heavy traffic loads and harsh weather conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for roads that experience a lot of wear and tear.
- Flexibility: Bitumen 80/100 is a flexible material that can adjust to changes in temperature and traffic conditions. This helps to prevent cracks and other forms of pavement damage.
- Water Resistance: Bitumen 80/100 is a water-resistant material that helps to prevent water from penetrating the pavement structure. This helps to prevent potholes and other forms of water damage.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Bitumen 80/100 is a relatively inexpensive material that is easy to work with. This makes it a cost-effective choice for road construction.
- Recyclability: Bitumen 80/100 can be recycled, which helps to reduce the environmental impact of road construction.
2. Hot-mix Asphalt
Bitumen 80/100 is a versatile and widely used grade of bitumen, particularly in hot mix asphalt (HMA) applications. HMA is a type of asphalt pavement that is produced by mixing heated asphalt cement with aggregate materials. Bitumen 80/100 serves as the binding agent in HMA, holding the aggregate particles together to form a durable and cohesive pavement structure.
Key Applications of Bitumen 80/100 in Hot Mix Asphalt:
- Asphalt Binder: Bitumen 80/100 is the primary binding agent in HMA, responsible for adhering the aggregate particles together and forming a strong, interconnected pavement structure. Its viscoelastic properties allow it to adapt to varying temperatures and traffic loads, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Tack Coat: Bitumen 80/100 is applied as a tack coat to enhance the bond between new asphalt layers and existing pavements. It serves as a sticky adhesive layer, promoting adhesion and preventing debonding or delamination between the layers.
- Seal Coat: Bitumen 80/100 is used as a seal coat to protect the top layer of asphalt from wear and tear, water penetration, and oxidation. It forms a thin, impermeable layer that seals the surface, extending the pavement’s lifespan.
- Patching Material: Bitumen 80/100 is a key component in pothole and asphalt crack patching materials. Its adhesive properties and ability to blend with existing asphalt make it suitable for filling and repairing minor pavement defects.
Advantages of Using Bitumen 80/100 in Hot Mix Asphalt:
- Durability: Bitumen 80/100 contributes to the durability of HMA pavements, enabling them to withstand heavy traffic loads and harsh weather conditions.
- Water Resistance: Its waterproofing properties help prevent moisture from penetrating the pavement structure, reducing the risk of potholes and premature deterioration.
- Flexibility: Bitumen 80/100’s viscoelastic nature allows it to adapt to temperature and traffic fluctuations, minimizing cracking and pavement distress.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Bitumen 80/100 is a relatively inexpensive material, making it a cost-effective choice for HMA production.
- Workability: Bitumen 80/100 exhibits good workability, allowing for easy mixing with aggregate materials and efficient pavement construction.
3. Other Applications:
A. Roofing Materials
Bitumen 80/100 is used in a variety of roofing applications, including:
- Built-up roofing (BUR): BUR is a type of roofing system that consists of multiple layers of roofing felt and bitumen. The bitumen is used to adhere the layers of felt together and to create a waterproof seal.
- Modified bitumen roofing: Modified bitumen roofing is a type of roofing system that uses a modified bitumen membrane. The modified bitumen membrane is made from bitumen that has been modified with polymers or other additives. This makes the membrane more flexible and resistant to cracking than unmodified bitumen.
- Asphalt shingles: Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roofing material in the United States. They are made from a combination of bitumen, sand, and fiberglass. The bitumen is used to bind the sand and fiberglass together and to create a waterproof seal.
B. Waterproofing
Common applications of bitumen 80/100 in waterproofing:
- Roofing: Bitumen 80/100 is a key component in various roofing systems, including built-up roofing (BUR), modified bitumen roofing, and asphalt shingles. It acts as a binder and waterproofing agent, providing a seamless barrier against water intrusion.
- Basements and Foundations: Bitumen 80/100 is widely used as a waterproofing membrane for basements, preventing water seepage and protecting the underlying structure from moisture damage.
How to use Bitumen 80/100?
A. Mixing Process
- Preparation of Aggregate: Before mixing the bitumen with aggregate, ensure the aggregate is clean, dry, and free from any contaminants. This will help in achieving a uniform and strong asphalt mix.
- Heating Bitumen: Heat the bitumen to the specified temperature range of 160°C to 180°C using a bitumen kettle or a bitumen heater. Proper heating is crucial to ensure the bitumen’s fluidity and workability during mixing.
- Mixing Bitumen with Aggregate: Transfer the heated bitumen to the mixing equipment, such as an asphalt mixer. Gradually add the aggregate to the bitumen while maintaining continuous mixing. The amount of bitumen required depends on the type and gradation of the aggregate.
- Mixing Duration: Continue mixing until the bitumen and aggregate are thoroughly coated and a uniform mix is achieved. The mixing duration may vary depending on the size of the mixing equipment and the batch size.
B. Temperature Requirements
- Bitumen Heating Temperature: Maintain the bitumen heating temperature within the specified range of 160°C to 180°C. Overheating can lead to bitumen degradation, while underheating can result in poor mixing and compaction.
- Ambient Temperature: Avoid laying asphalt when the air temperature is below 10°C or when it is raining. Cold temperatures can affect the bitumen’s viscosity and workability, while rain can introduce moisture into the mix, compromising its quality.
C. Recommended Equipment and Tools
- Bitumen Heating Equipment: Bitumen kettle or bitumen heater to heat the bitumen to the required temperature.
- Asphalt Mixing Equipment: Asphalt mixer to thoroughly combine the bitumen with the aggregate.
- Paver: A paver to lay the asphalt mix evenly and smoothly on the prepared subgrade.
- Roller: A roller to compact the asphalt mix and achieve the desired density and strength.
- Safety Gear: Gloves, safety glasses, long pants, and long sleeves to protect against hot bitumen and potential hazards.
D. Safety Precautions
- Hot Material Handling: Bitumen 80/100 is a hot material and can cause severe burns. Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and long pants and sleeves, when handling or working near hot bitumen.
- Fire Safety: Bitumen 80/100 is a flammable material. Keep it away from open flames, sparks, and heat sources. Avoid smoking or using open flames near bitumen storage or handling areas.
- Skin Contact: Avoid direct skin contact with bitumen 80/100. If skin contact occurs, immediately wash the affected area with soap and water.
- Fume Inhalation: Avoid inhaling fumes from heated bitumen. Work in well-ventilated areas and use appropriate respiratory protection if necessary.
- Proper Disposal: Bitumen 80/100 is a hazardous waste and should not be disposed of in a landfill or waterways. Follow local regulations for the proper disposal of bitumen waste.
Quality Standards and Regulations for Bitumen 80/100 in Dubai UAE
Bitumen 80/100 is a type of asphalt binder commonly used in road construction in Dubai, UAE. The quality of bitumen 80/100 is crucial for ensuring the performance and durability of asphalt pavements. The Dubai Municipality (DM) has established comprehensive standards and regulations to ensure the quality of bitumen 80/100 used in Dubai.
The DM’s standards for bitumen 80/100 are primarily based on the specifications of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). These standards cover various aspects of bitumen quality, including penetration grade, softening point, ductility, flash point, and residue on evaporation.
Testing Methods and Parameters
The DM requires bitumen 80/100 to undergo various tests to ensure it meets the specified quality requirements. These tests are conducted by standardized methods, such as ASTM D946 for penetration grade, ASTM D3605 for softening point, ASTM D113 for ductility, ASTM D93 for flash point and ASTM D1854 for residue on evaporation.
Compliance Requirements
To ensure compliance with DM standards, bitumen 80/100 suppliers must provide test certificates from accredited laboratories demonstrating that the bitumen meets the specified quality requirements. Additionally, DM inspectors may conduct random inspections of bitumen shipments and project sites to verify compliance.
Where to Buy Bitumen 80/100 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 80/100
Some of the destinations we export to Countries such as:
- Qatar
- Kuwait
- Dubai
- China
- Malaysia
- Thailand
- Vietnam
Packing of Asphalt 80/100
- Bitumen 80/100 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 80/100 in 1300 Kg Jumbo Bag: Loading 26 MT in 40 ft Container
- Bitumen 80/100 in 180kg New Steel Drum: Loading 110 Drum in 20 ft
- Asphalt 80/100 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 bitumen penetration grade 80/100
| BITUMEN 80/100 | TEST METHOD | UNIT | SPECIFICATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Specific gravity @ 25/25 °c | ASTM D70 | Kg/cm³ | 1.01-1.06 |
| Penetration @ 25°c | ASTM D5 | mm/10 | 80-100 |
| Softening point °c | ASTM D36 | °C | 42-50 |
| 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 max |
| Spot test | A.a.s.h.o.t102 | - | Negative |
