Introduction to VG Bitumen 40
Viscosity Grade (VG) Bitumen 40 is the hardest and most viscous bitumen grade in the VG classification system. It is engineered for extreme climatic conditions and heavy load-bearing roads. Being of higher stiffness and thicker consistency than VG-10, VG-20, or VG-30, VG 40 bitumen has been designed to provide better resistance against rutting, shoving, fatigue cracking, and thermal deformation. It is used primarily on busy roads, container ports, industrial zones, and airport pavements where maximum durability and load carrying capacity are needed.
VG 40 is extensively used in tropical conditions with temperatures up to 45°C. Under such conditions, softer bitumen grades will cause undue rutting or flowing of the asphalt road surface. The higher stiffness of VG 40 makes it the most suitable for expressways, highways, bus routes, and heavy-duty parking lots.
Applications of VG Bitumen 40
VG 40 Bitumen can be used in high-performance paving and water-proofing application. Its prime applications are:
1. National Highways and Expressways
VG 40 has extensive usage in the construction of national highways and expressways where high traffic and cargo volumes are witnessed. Its high viscosity does not cause significant deformation upon repeated stress.
2. Industrial Roadways and Container Yards
Industrial highway and container yard facilities are subject to heavy loads and slow-moving traffic. VG 40 hardness resists excessive track formation and surface wear even under multi-axle truck loading.
3. Airports Runways and Taxiways
Airports require very stable pavements to withstand aircraft loading during takeoffs and landings. VG 40 provides maximum rutting resistance and temperature stability and hence is ideal for such uses.
4. Bridge Deck Waterproofing
VG 40 can also be used in membrane waterproofing system of bridge decks in order to prevent water seepage, thus increasing the life of concrete structures.
5. High-Temperature Asphalt Mixes
VG 40 for hot weather regions maintains surface integrity by resisting bleeding, softening, and flowing. It contributes to long road life in the tropics and deserts.
These characteristics are tested as per ASTM and IS guidelines to ensure standard performance and global compatibility.
Advantages of VG Bitumen 40
VG Bitumen 40 offers superior performance with high rutting resistance, ideal for heavy and static loads, and exceptional durability against weathering, UV aging, and water. It excels in hot and tropical climates, ensures better load distribution to prevent fatigue cracking, and provides strong adhesion for mixture integrity.
Its long-term cost savings stem from reduced maintenance, while its versatility allows modification with polymers or rubber for specific needs. Additionally, it supports eco-friendly construction by being compatible with Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP).
Safety Measures While Using VG Bitumen 40
Although VG 40 will offer excellent performance, it should be handled safely while heating, transporting, and applying:
Use Appropriate PPE: Gloves, goggles, heat-resistant attire, and boots.
Avoid Inhalation: Bitumen fumes are hazardous; use proper ventilation when applying or heating.
Monitor Heat of Heating: Don’t overheat above prescribed temperatures (generally <180°C) to prevent bitumen spoilage or fire hazard.
Transport in Approved Containers: Transport VG 40 in tight, sealed tankers or drums for hot liquids.
Packing & Supply Options
VG Bitumen 40 is available in different packaging forms to suit different logistical and project needs:
New Steel Drums – Net 180 kg
Bitubag (Jumbo Bag) – 375 kg
Bulk ISO Tanker Shipments
Bulk Flexi Bag Shipments
Bulk Vessel Shipments – Suitable for bulk infrastructure projects
All packaging forms ensure safe handling, ease of loading/unloading, and international shipping regulation compliance.
Why Choose Us?
We are a reliable provider of viscosity grade bitumen known for quality, reliability, and timely delivery. Our VG Bitumen 40 is thoroughly tested in certified laboratories to ASTM D2171, IS 73, and other global standards. We offer:
Customizable packaging and shipping facilities
Wholesale prices for bulk purchases
Technical assistance and material certification
Custom solutions for mega-scale infrastructure projects
24/7 customer service to coordinate logistics
From building expressways, airports, and industrial facilities, our VG 40 bitumen offers unmatched performance.
Specification of VG BITUMEN 40
| Specification | Unit | Value | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ◦C | Poise | Min 3200 | ASTM D4402 |
| Kinematic Viscosity, at 135 ◦C | CST | Min 400 | ASTM D2170 |
| Flash Point | ◦C | Min 220 | ASTM D93 |
| Solubility in Trichloroethylene | %WT | Min 99 | ASTM D2042 |
| Penetration Value, at 25 ◦C | 0.1mm | 40-60 | ASTM D5 |
| Softening Point | ◦C | Min 25 | ASTM D36 |
| Viscosity Ratio, at 60 ◦C | ◦C | Max 4 | ASTM D4402 |
| Ductility at 25 ◦C, after thin film oven test | Cm | Min 25 | ASTM D113 |
