Bitumen
Penetration Grades (PG)
Penetration-grade bitumen indeed plays a crucial role in road construction due to its properties and suitability for different climates. The varying penetration grades allow for adaptability in different environmental conditions, ensuring that the asphalt used remains durable and effective.
The reliance on solid bitumen in road construction projects during the late 20th century is indicative of the pursuit of more efficient asphalt. Solid bitumen tends to provide enhanced performance in terms of stability and durability compared to its softer counterparts.
However, the choice of bitumen grade is also influenced by factors beyond just the temperature sensitivity of the material. Other considerations include traffic load, environmental conditions, and the specific requirements of the road surface.
Crete Petroleum Group’s capability to supply different grades of road surfacing bitumen in compliance with national and international standards is a valuable asset, as it allows for the tailoring of bitumen specifications according to the specific needs of various construction projects and geographic locations. This adaptability ensures that roads are constructed with materials optimized for their intended use and longevity.
Viscosity Grades
| Test | Methodology | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Density | ASTM D-7 | 1/01 – 1/06 |
| Penetration Rate at 25°C | ASTM D-5 | 30-40 |
| Softening Point ⁰C | ASTM D-36 | 55-63 |
| Ductility at 25°C (cm) – Min | ASTM D-113 | 100 |
| Flash Point °C – Min | ASTM D-92 | 250 |
| Solubility in disulfide %wt | ASTM D-4 | 99/5 |
| Satin Test | AASHTO T 102 | Negative |
| Weight Loss by Heating %wt – MAX | ASTM D-6 | 0/2 |
| Penetration Loss by Heating % – MAX | ASTM D-6 – D-5 | 20 |
| Test | Methodology | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Density | ASTM D-7 | 1/01 – 1/06 |
| Penetration Rate at 25°C | ASTM D-5 | 40-50 |
| Softening Point ⁰C | ASTM D-36 | 52-60 |
| Ductility at 25°C (cm) – Min | ASTM D-113 | 100 |
| Flash Point °C – Min | ASTM D-92 | 250 |
| Solubility in disulfide %wt | ASTM D-4 | 99/5 |
| Satin Test | AASHTO T 102 | Negative |
| Weight Loss by Heating %wt – MAX | ASTM D-6 | 0/2 |
| Penetration Loss by Heating % – MAX | ASTM D-6 – D-5 | 20 |
| Test | Methodology | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Density | ASTM D-7 | 1/01 – 1/05 |
| Penetration Rate at 25°C | ASTM D-5 | 60-70 |
| Softening Point ⁰C | ASTM D-36 | 49-56 |
| Ductility at 25°C (cm) – Min | ASTM D-113 | 100 |
| Flash Point °C – Min | ASTM D-92 | 250 |
| Solubility in disulfide %wt | ASTM D-4 | 99/5 |
| Satin Test | AASHTO T 102 | Negative |
| Weight Loss by Heating %wt – MAX | ASTM D-6 | 0/2 |
| Penetration Loss by Heating % – MAX | ASTM D-6 – D-5 | 20 |
| Test | Methodology | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Density | ASTM D-7 | 1/01 – 1/05 |
| Penetration Rate at 25°C | ASTM D-5 | 80-100 |
| Softening Point ⁰C | ASTM D-36 | 45-52 |
| Ductility at 25°C (cm) – Min | ASTM D-113 | 100 |
| Flash Point °C – Min | ASTM D-92 | 250 |
| Solubility in disulfide %wt | ASTM D-4 | 99/5 |
| Satin Test | AASHTO T 102 | Negative |
| Weight Loss by Heating %wt – MAX | ASTM D-6 | 0/2 |
| Penetration Loss by Heating % – MAX | ASTM D-6 – D-5 | 20 |
| Test | Methodology | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Density | ASTM D-7 | 1/01 – 1/04 |
| Penetration Rate at 25°C | ASTM D-5 | 100-120 |
| Softening Point ⁰C | ASTM D-36 | 42-49 |
| Ductility at 25°C (cm) – Min | ASTM D-113 | 100 |
| Flash Point °C – Min | ASTM D-92 | 250 |
| Solubility in disulfide %wt | ASTM D-4 | 99/5 |
| Satin Test | AASHTO T 102 | Negative |
| Weight Loss by Heating %wt – MAX | ASTM D-6 | 0/2 |
| Penetration Loss by Heating % – MAX | ASTM D-6 – D-5 | 20 |
| Test | Viscosity | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR-10 | AR-20 | AR-40 | AR-80 | AR-160 | |
| Viscosity at 60°C | 1000±250 | 2000±500 | 4000±1000 | 8000±2000 | 16000±400 0 |
| Viscosity at 135°C | 140 | 200 | 275 | 400 | 550 |
| Penetration at 25°C, 100 grams, five seconds | 65 | 40 | 25 | 20 | 20 |
| Penetration at 25°C, 100 grams, five seconds, minimum | – | 40 | 45 | 50 | 52 |
| Ductility at 25°C, 5cm/ min | 100 | 100 | 75 | 75 | 75 |
| Test on Primary Bitumen | |||||
| Flash Point, Cleveland open cup | 205 | 219 | 227 | 232 | 238 |
| Solubility in trichlorethy lene | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 |
| Test | Viscosity | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AC-2/5 | AC-5 | AC-10 | AC-20 | AC-30 | AC-40 | |
| Viscosity at 60°C | 250±0 | 500±100 | 1000±200 | 2000±400 | 3000±600 | 4000±800 |
| Viscosity at 135°C | 125 | 175 | 250 | 300 | 350 | 400 |
| Penetrati on at 25°C, 100 grams, five seconds | 220 | 140 | 80 | 60 | 50 | 40 |
| Flash Point, Clevelan d open cup | 163 | 177 | 219 | 232 | 232 | 232 |
| Solubility in trichloret hylene | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | |
| Test on the residue of bitumen layer | ||||||
| Heating loss | – | 1/0 | 0/5 | 0/5 | 0/5 | 0/5 |
| Viscosity at at 60°C | 1000 | 2000 | 4000 | 8000 | 12000 | 16000 |
| Ductility at 25°C, 5cm/min | 100 | 100 | 75 | 50 | 40 | 25 |
| Stain Test | ||||||
| Naphta Solvent | Negative | |||||
| NaphtaXylene Solvent, Xylene Percenta ge | Negative |
| Test | Viscosity | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR-1000 | AR-2000 | AR-4000 | AR-8000 | AR-16000 | |
| Viscosity at 60°C | 1000±250 | 2000±500 | 4000±1000 | 8000±2000 | 16000±4000 |
| Viscosity at 135°C | 140 | 200 | 275 | 400 | 550 |
| Penetration at 25°C, 100 grams, five seconds | 65 | 40 | 25 | 20 | 20 |
| Penetration at 25°C, 100 grams, five seconds, minimum | 40 | 40 | 45 | 50 | 52 |
| Ductility at 25°C, 5cm/ min | 100 | 100 | 75 | 75 | 75 |
| Test on Primary Bitumen | |||||
| Flash Point, Cleveland open cup | 205 | 219 | 227 | 232 | 238 |
| Solubility in trichlorethy lene | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 |
| Test | Viscosity | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AC-2/5 | AC-5 | AC-10 | AC-20 | AC-40 | |
| Viscosity at 60°C | 250±0 | 500±100 | 1000±200 | 2000±400 | 4000±800 |
| Viscosity at 135°C | 80 | 110 | 150 | 210 | 300 |
| Penetration at 25°C, 100 grams, five seconds | 200 | 120 | 70 | 40 | 20 |
| Flash Point, Cleveland open cup | 163 | 177 | 219 | 232 | 232 |
| Solubility in trichlorethy lene | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 |
| Test on the Residue of bitumen layer | |||||
| Viscosity at at 60°C | 1250 | 2500 | 5000 | 10000 | 20000 |
| Ductility at 25°C, 5cm/ min | 100 | 100 | 50 | 20 | 10 |
| Test | Viscosity | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AC-2/5 | AC-5 | AC-10 | AC-20 | AC-30 | AC-40 | |
| Viscosity at 60°C | 250±0 | 500±100 | 1000±200 | 2000±400 | 3000±600 | 4000±800 |
| Viscosity at 135°C | 125 | 175 | 250 | 300 | 350 | 400 |
| Penetrati on at 25°C, 100 grams, five seconds | 220 | 140 | 80 | 60 | 50 | 40 |
| Flash Point, Clevelan d open cup | 163 | 177 | 219 | 232 | 232 | 232 |
| Solubility in trichloret hylene | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 |
| Test on the Residue of bitumen layer | ||||||
| Viscosity at at 60°C | 1250 | 2500 | 5000 | 10000 | 15000 | 20000 |
| Ductility at 25°C, 5cm/min | 100 | 100 | 75 | 50 | 20 | 10 |
| Test | Viscosity | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AR-1000 | AR-2000 | AR-4000 | AR-8000 | AR-16000 | |
| Viscosity at 60°C | 1000±250 | 2000±50 | 4000±1000 | 8000±2000 | 16000±4000 |
| Viscosity at 135°C | 140 | 200 | 275 | 400 | 550 |
| Penetration at 25°C, 100 grams, five seconds | 65 | 40 | 25 | 20 | 20 |
| Penetration at 25°C, 100 grams, five seconds, minimum | 40 | 40 | 45 | 50 | 52 |
| Ductility at 25°C, 5cm/ min | 100 | 100 | 75 | 75 | 75 |
| Test on Primary Bitumen | |||||
| Flash Point, Cleveland open cup | 205 | 219 | 227 | 232 | 238 |
| Solubility in trichlorethy lene | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 |
Performance Grades
The Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP) of the late1980s and early 1990s in the United States marked a pivotal era in assessing and advancing the performance of bitumen binders. This extensive research initiative culminated in the development of Superpave, a revolutionary methodology aimed at redefining the criteria for assessing asphalt materials and their application.
Superpave introduced a paradigm shift in evaluating bitumen binders and asphalt concrete by emphasizing efficiencycriteria and factoring in the influence of climatic conditions on bitumen application. The program focused on addressing several critical problems observed in bitumen performance:
1. Winter Low-Temperature Cracking Not Related to Loading: Understanding and mitigating cracking issues in bitumen, particularly those occurring in cold weather and unrelated to load-bearing factors.
2. Bitumen Fatigue Cracking Due to Loading: Investigating and devising solutions for fatigue-related cracking of bitumen caused by continuous loading factors.
3. Summer High-Temperature Bitumen Deformation Due to Loading: Tackling the challenges of bitumen deformation in high-temperature conditions under the influence of loads.
Superpave’s primary objective was to redefine specifications for bitumen products, making them clearer for potential buyers and ensuring superior bitumen performance in various applications. It acknowledged the significance of climatic conditions in bitumen efficiency, although limited research had been conducted due to time constraints and relatively similar weather conditions during the research phase
The shift from traditional penetration grading to PerformanceGrade (PG) methods was a significant outcome of Superpave. PG methods focused on mechanical specifications of bitumen rather than experimental parameters, emphasizing the mechanical behavior and performance characteristics of the material. This shift gained prominence, especially for polymermodified bitumen, as it offered better performance insights.
In contrast, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries traditionally favored penetration grade for bitumen grading. However, there’s recognition that in certain scenarios, PG methods provide superior performance. CPG, equipped with SHRP systems, stands at the forefront, supplying various PG grades tailored to environmental conditions and temperatures. This diversification enables enhanced resistance and more favorable specifications for different climates.
CPG’s proactive approach in conducting climate zoning in GCC countries demonstrates their commitment to specifying suitable bitumen grades for various geographical zones. This strategic understanding of regional requirements ensures that CPG can provide bitumen solutions tailored to different climates and environmental conditions, thereby optimizing performance in diverse applications
| High Temperature Performance | Low Tempereture Performance |
|---|---|
| PG 46 | -34, -40, -46 |
| PG 52 | -10, -16, -22, -28, -34, -40, -46 |
| PG 58 | -10, -16, -22, -28, -34, -40 |
| PG 64 | -10, -16, -22, -28, -34, -40 |
| PG 70 | -10, -16, -22, -28, -34, -40 |
| PG 76 | -10, -16, -22, -28, -34 |
| PG 82 | -10, -16, -22, -28, -34 |
Cutbacks Bitumen
Cutback bitumen, a crucial product in road construction and pavement, is produced by blending controlled amounts of petroleum distillates, such as kerosene, with pure bitumen. The type and quality of cutback bitumen are determined by the type and quantity of solvent mixed with the pure bitumen. The proportion of solvent in cutback bitumen directly influences its viscosity: the higher the solvent content, the greater the viscosity of the resulting bitumen.
This specialized form of bitumen finds its application in scenarios where access to heating equipment is limited or challenging. It serves as a solution to prevent bitumen decomposition in high-temperature environments, offers ease of handling during application due to its slower cooling properties, prioritizes worker safety, minimizes fire risks, and saves time in road operations for surfacing and pavement.
Cutback bitumen is categorized based on its viscosity grade, generally divided into three main classifications:
1. Rapid-Curing (RC) Cutbacks: This type involves blending bitumen with gasoline as the solvent. RC cutbacks come in different categories like RC250, RC70, RC800, and RC3000, with their numbers denoting varying viscosity levels. The quick evaporation of gasoline leads to rapid bitumen deposition. Moreover, additional mixing with naphtha, in a ratio like 80/100, further dilutes the bitumen if necessary.
2. Medium-Curing (MC) Cutbacks: These are created by dissolving bitumen in kerosene, a solvent that evaporates more slowly compared to gasoline. MC cutbacks are divided into multiple groups, ranging in viscosity from 3-4 to 6,000 at 60 degrees Celsius. This type of bitumen can be obtained by blending bitumen 85/100 with kerosene.
3. Slow-Curing (SC) Cutbacks: Produced by mixing bitumen with gasoil or fuel oil, SC cutbacks, including SC 70, SC 250, SC800, and SC 3000, exhibit minimal evaporation under standard weather conditions. Instead, they experience gradual molecular changes over time, becoming harder. This type of bitumen results from blending bitumen 85/100 with heavier solvents like gasoil or fuel oil
Each classification caters to specific application needs and environmental conditions, offering a range of viscosity levels and performance characteristics. Understanding the distinctions between these cutback bitumen types enables better selection and utilization in various road construction projects.
| MC250 Physical Spesification | ||
|---|---|---|
| Test | Methodology | Value |
| Kinematic Viscosity at 60°C | ASTM D-2170 | 250-500 |
| Penetration at 25°C, mm/10 | ASTM D-5 | 120-250 |
| Ductility at 25°C, cm | ASTM D-113 | 100 min |
| Flash Point(TOC) °C | ASTM D-3143 | 250 min |
| Solubility in triclorethylene, %wt | ASTM D-2042 | 99 min |
| Water Content %wt | ASTM D-95 | 0/2 max |
| Distillation at 225 °C, vol% | – | 20 max |
| Distillation at 260 °C, vol% | – | 5-55 |
| Distillation at 316 °C, vol% | – | 60-90 |
| Residue from distillation at 360 °C, vol% | – | 67 min |
Emulsions
Bitumen, renowned for its high viscosity and diverse applications in road construction, waterproofing, and sealing, requires modification to become a more fluid and manageable substance for use. The transformation of highly viscous bitumen into a low-viscosity liquid can be achieved through several methods, each tailored to specific application needs
1. Heating: This method involves applying heat to bitumen, reducing its viscosity and making it more workable. While effective, this approach requires substantial energy and may not be feasible in all circumstances.
2. Solvent Dissolution: Dissolving bitumen in solvents is another approach to lower its viscosity, creating a more fluid substance. This method allows for the modification of bitumen’s consistency without relying solely on heat.
3. Emulsification: Bitumen emulsions represent a versatile approach to convert bitumen into a mobile liquid suitable for various applications. Emulsions consist of bitumen, water, and additives, forming a two-phased system. The bitumen is dispersed within the water phase as discrete globules, typically ranging in size from 0.1 to 50 microns. Electrostatic charges, stabilized by emulsifiers, suspend these globules in the water phase.
Bitumen emulsions are categorized into various classes based on their chemical properties and setting characteristics:
– Anionic and Cationic Emulsions: These categories stem from the electrical charges present on the bitumen globules. Anionic emulsions contain negatively charged bitumen particles, while cationic emulsions comprise positively charged particles. This classification system follows the fundamental law of electricity: like charges repel, unlike charges attract.
– Non-Ionic Emulsions: These emulsions consist of neutral bitumen particles and are less common than their charged counterparts
Moreover, bitumen emulsions are classified by their setting properties, determining their application suitability:
– Rapid-Setting (RS), Medium-Setting (MS), and SlowSetting (SS) Emulsions: These classifications define the rate at which the emulsion undergoes the setting process.
Among these emulsion types, cationic rapid-setting (RS) emulsions are widely utilized due to their versatility and suitability for various applications.
The emulsion setting process is irreversible and occurs due to factors like water evaporation or water absorption by stone materials. As the water phase diminishes, bitumen particles reconfigure, either moving towards the surface or coating the aggregate, fundamentally altering the emulsion’s state. This transformation is critical for achieving desired properties and functionality in bitumen-based applications.
Cationic emulsions, featuring positively charged bitumen aggregates, come in three main categories: CSS (slow setting), CMS (medium-setting), and CRS (rapid-setting), each with specific subcategories denoted by numbers and letters indicating variations in setting characteristics and hardness.
| Cationic Emulsions | ||
|---|---|---|
| CSS | CMS | CRS |
| CSS-1 | CMS-1 | CRS-1 |
| CSS-1h | CMS-2h | CRS-2 |
emulsions, with a negative charge, come in RS (rapid-setting), MS (mediumsetting), and SS (slow-setting) categories, each with variations denoted by numbers and letters indicating different setting speeds, bitumen percentages, and usability for specific materials like sand.
| Anionic Emulsions | ||
|---|---|---|
| RS | MS | SS |
| RS -1 | MS -1 | SS -1 |
| RS -2 | MS -2 | SS -1h |
| HFRS -2 | MS -2h | |
| HFMS -1 | ||
| HFMS -2 | ||
| HFMS -2h | ||
| HFMS -2s |