Penetration grade bitumen or penetration asphalt is a type of bitumen classified and graded based on its penetration value, which is a measure of its consistency or hardness. It is a type of bitumen used in various construction and road paving applications. The penetration value is determined using a standard needle, how deeply it penetrates into the bitumen sample under specific conditions. The standard test method for determining the penetration value is ASTM D5 or equivalent methods.
Features of Penetration Grade Bitumen
Penetration Grade Bitumen is commonly used for
- Penetration Value: The depth (measured in tenths of a millimeter) to which a standard needle can pierce a bitumen sample at a given load and temperature is known as the penetration value. Penetration value is normally expressed in units of 0.1 millimeters (0.1 mm) and is used to categorize different grades of bitumen.
- The penetration measurement reveals the consistency or hardness of the bitumen. While bitumen with higher penetration values is softer, bitumen with lower penetration values is harder and more viscous.
- Standard Grades: Penetration Grade 40/50, 60/70, 80/100, and 120/150 bitumens are typical grades. The lower limit of penetration is represented by the first number (40, 60, 80, or 120), and the upper limit is represented by the second number (50, 70, 100, or 150).
- Uses: For varied applications, multiple penetration grades are employed. Harder grades, such as 120/150, are better suited for low-temperature regions and places with less traffic, whilst softer grades, such as 40/50, are suitable for high-temperature regions and locations with higher traffic loads.
- Penetration grade bitumen is frequently combined with aggregates to make asphalt mixtures used in the construction of roads. The area's climate and traffic patterns will determine the penetration grade that should be employed.
- Penetration grade bitumen can be blended with other bitumen types or changed with additives to fulfill the requirements of a particular project. This versatility is useful for meeting a variety of climatic and building requirements.
For a particular project, it's critical to select the right penetration grade bitumen to ensure the durability and effectiveness of the asphalt mix. The best grade for a particular application depends critically on elements including climate, traffic volume, and environmental factors. To select the best bitumen grade for your application, contact top bitumen suppliers in the UAE.
Penetration Grade Bitumen Specification (AASHTO M 20 and ASTM D 946)
Units | 40/50 | 60/70 | 80/100 | 100/120 | Test Methods | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Specific Gravity @25°C | - | 1.01-1.06 | 1.01-1.06 | 1.01-1.05 | 1.01-1.04 | ASTM D-70 |
Penetration @25°C, 100gm, 5sec | 0.1MM | 40-50 | 60-70 | 80-100 | 100-120 | ASTM D-5 |
Softening Point, Ring & Ball | °C | 52-60 | 49-56 | 45-52 | 42-49 | ASTM D-36 |
Ductility @25°C, after TFOT, Min | CM | 100 | 100 | 100 | 100 | ASTM D-113 |
Loss on Heating, Max | %Wt | 0.2 | 0.2 | 0.5 | 0.5 | ASTM D-6 |
Drop in Penetration after Heating, Max | % | 20.0 | 20.0 | 20.0 | 20.0 | ASTM D-6 & D-5 |
Flash Point Cleveland open cup, Min | °C | 250.0 | 250.0 | 232.0 | 250.0 | ASTM D-92 |
Solubility in CS2, Min | %Wt | 99.5 | 99.5 | 99.5 | 99.5 | ASTM D-4 |
Organic Matter Insoluble in CS2, Max | %Wt | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 | ASTM D-4 |
Spot Test | - | Negative | Negative | Negative | Negative | *A.A.S.H.O.T.102 |
*American association of state highway officials |
Bitumen Specification European Standard (BS EN 12591)
Units | 35-50 | 40-60 | 50-70 | 70-100 | 100-150 | Test Methods | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Penetration @25°C, 100gm, 5sec | 0.1MM | 35-50 | 40-60 | 50-70 | 70-100 | 100-150 | EN 1426 |
Softening Point, Ring & Ball | °C | 50-58 | 48-56 | 46-54 | 43-51 | 39-47 | EN 1427 |
Resistance to Hardening@163°C | |||||||
Change in mass, Max | %Wt | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.8 | 0.8 | EN 12607-1 |
Retained Penetration, Min | 0.1MM | 53 | 50 | 50 | 46 | 43 | |
Softening point after hardinging, Min | °C | 52 | 49 | 48 | 45 | 41 | |
Other Properties | |||||||
Flash Point Cleveland open cup, Min | °C | 240 | 230 | 230 | 230 | 230 | 230 |
Solubility in CS2, Min | %Wt | 99.0 | 99.0 | 99.0 | 99.0 | 99.0 | EN 12592 |
Kinematic Viscocity @135°C, Min | mm2/S | 370 | 325 | 295 | 230 | 175 | EN 12595 |
Bitumen Penetration Grade 20/30
This bitumen penetration grade is a typical or normal penetration grade Bitumen that is used for the construction of roads and for the production of asphalt pavements with finer properties. It is also used in the hot mix asphalt for bases and wearing courses. Learn More
Bitumen Penetration Grade 40/50
This is the type of bitumen used for the manufacturing of hot mix asphalt for bases and wearing courses and is used in road construction in tropical regions. Due to its high air blowing and penetration, it is used in tropical areas with warm weather. Learn More
Bitumen Penetration Grade 60/70
This bitumen is a standard penetration grade, appropriate for the construction of roads, and produces a superior quality of asphalt pavement. It is also used in the applications of chips and spraying. Due to its medium air blowing and penetration, it is used in mild areas. Learn More
Bitumen Penetration Grade 80/100
This one is also suitable for the construction of roads, streets and for the manufacturing of high-quality asphalt pavement. Moreover, its chief use is spraying and the application of chips. Due to its relatively low air blowing and penetration, it is used in cold areas. Learn More