Bitumen

Bitumen

Bitumen is a hydrocarbon material characterized by high viscosity, a colloidal structure, and a black to dark brown appearance. It is fully soluble in carbon disulfide and carbon tetrachloride. Its key properties include:

• Impermeability to moisture and water
• Excellent electrical insulation
• Strong elasticity and adhesion to various materials
• Moderate resistance to acids, bases, and salts

Production and Classification

The most widely produced type is petroleum bitumen, obtained through crude oil vacuum distillation. Bitumen is commonly classified according to its Penetration Grade (ASTM D5), though other grading systems are also used globally.

At 100–200 °C, bitumen behaves like a viscous liquid, allowing it to be mixed, transported, and applied. Upon cooling, it solidifies into a durable, inert, and hydrophobic material, making it ideal for construction.

Common industry terms include:

• Straight Run Bitumen – Produced directly from vacuum distillation without further modification
• Paving Grade Bitumen – Conventional bitumen mainly used in asphalt for road construction
• Penetration Grade (Pen Grade) – Classified by the penetration test, widely used in Europe and Asia

Applications

• Road construction and asphalt paving (major use worldwide)
• Roofing and waterproofing membranes
• Industrial applications requiring adhesive or protective coatings

Its waterproofing and thermoplastic behavior make it especially valuable in construction and infrastructure projects.

Bitumen Grades

• Penetration Grade: 30/40, 40/50, 60/70, 80/100, 85/100
• Viscosity Grade (VG): VG-10, VG-20, VG-30, VG-40
• Cutback Bitumen: Rapid Curing (RC), Medium Curing (MC), Slow Curing (SC)
• Emulsion Bitumen: CRS (Cationic Rapid Set), CMS (Cationic Medium Set), CSS (Cationic Slow Set)
• Oxidized Bitumen: 75/30, 85/25, 85/40, 95/25, 105/35, 115/15
• Modified Bitumen: Polymer or crumb rubber modified, based on project needs

Supply & Packaging (AGT Global)

We supply a wide range of high-quality bitumen grades tailored to customer requirements.

Available packaging options:

• Bulk
• New steel drums: 150 kg, 180 kg, 220 kg
• Jumbo bags: 300 kg, 500 kg, 1000 kg