Bitumen VG -20

Bitumen has been used for various applications for thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians, Persians, and Egyptians. However, the development of viscosity grading for bitumen is a relatively modern concept that emerged in the mid-20th century.

The concept of viscosity grading for bitumen was first introduced by the American Asphalt Institute in the 1950s. The institute recognized that the viscosity of bitumen was an important characteristic that could be used to assess its suitability for various applications, particularly in the construction of asphalt pavements.

The viscosity grading system introduced by the Asphalt Institute involved testing the viscosity of bitumen at different temperatures and assigning it a grade based on its viscosity at a standard temperature of 60°C. This grading system was later adopted by other countries, including India, where Bitumen VG 20 is a commonly used grade of bitumen in road construction.

Today, viscosity grading has become the standard method of classifying bitumen for various applications, and different grades of bitumen are available to suit specific requirements based on their viscosity, penetration, and other characteristics. Bitumen VG 20 remains a popular grade of bitumen in road construction and other applications due to its good balance of properties, including resistance to rutting and deformation under high traffic loads.

Usages of Bitumen VG 20

Bitumen VG 20 is a commonly used grade of bitumen in the construction industry for various applications, particularly in regions with high-temperature climates. Some of the common usages of Bitumen VG 20 are:

Road Construction: Bitumen VG 20 is used in the construction of asphalt pavements and roads, particularly in regions with high temperatures. It provides good resistance to rutting and deformation under high traffic loads and helps to extend the life of the pavement.

Asphalt Mixes: Bitumen VG 20 is used in the manufacture of hot mix asphalt (HMA) and warm mix asphalt (WMA) for various construction projects. It helps to provide the necessary binding properties to the asphalt mix and ensures that it can withstand the stresses and strains of heavy traffic.

Waterproofing: Bitumen VG 20 is used for waterproofing applications, particularly in the construction of roofs and foundations. It helps to prevent water penetration and protects the structure from moisture damage.

Emulsions: Bitumen VG 20 is also used in the manufacture of bitumen emulsions, which are widely used in the construction industry for various applications such as surface dressing, tack coats, and seal coats.

Overall, Bitumen VG 20 is a versatile grade of bitumen that is widely used in the construction industry for various applications due to its good balance of properties and durability.

Packing of Bitumen VG 20

Bitumen VG 20 is typically packed and transported in bulk or in drums

 The most common packing options are:

Bulk: Bitumen VG 20 is transported in bulk tankers, which can carry large quantities of bitumen, typically ranging from 20 to 30 tons. Bulk transportation is a cost-effective and efficient way to transport bitumen over long distances.

Drums: Bitumen VG 20 is also packed in drums, which are typically made of steel and can hold between 150 to 200 kg of bitumen. Drums are commonly used for smaller construction projects or when bulk transportation is not feasible.

In addition to bulk tankers and drums, Bitumen VG 20 can also be packed in other containers such as flexitanks, which are flexible containers that can hold up to 24 tons of bitumen. The choice of packing option depends on the quantity of bitumen required, the distance of transportation, and the specific requirements of the construction project.

Prices of Bitumen VG 20

 

The prices of Bitumen VG 20 can vary depending on several factors, such as the location, market demand, quantity, and quality of the bitumen. Generally, the prices of bitumen are quoted in US dollars per metric ton (MT).

As of March 2023, the global average price of Bitumen VG 20 is around $450-$550 per MT for bulk purchases, while the price for drummed bitumen VG 20 can be slightly higher at around $550-$650 per MT. However, it's important to note that prices can vary significantly between different regions and markets.

The prices of bitumen are also influenced by factors such as fluctuations in crude oil prices, changes in government regulations, and supply and demand dynamics in the market. In addition, quality factors such as the purity, viscosity, and other specifications of the bitumen can also impact the price.

Overall, the prices of Bitumen VG 20 can fluctuate over time, and it's important for buyers to do their research and negotiate with suppliers to get the best price for their specific requirements.
Delivery time and readiness of Bitumen VG 20

The delivery time and readiness of Bitumen VG 20 can vary depending on several factors, such as the location of the supplier, the quantity required, and the availability of the product.

In general, if the Bitumen VG 20 is readily available in the supplier's inventory, the delivery time can be relatively quick, typically ranging from a few days to a few weeks depending on the distance of transportation and other logistical considerations.

However, if the supplier needs to manufacture or source the Bitumen VG 20 from other suppliers, the delivery time can be longer, ranging from a few weeks to a few months. The exact delivery time can also depend on the specific requirements of the buyer, such as the packing option, delivery location, and mode of transportation.

It's important for buyers to communicate their specific requirements and timelines with the supplier to ensure that the Bitumen VG 20 is delivered on time and meets their expectations. In addition, buyers should also consider factors such as quality, price, and reliability when selecting a supplier to ensure that they receive a high-quality product at a competitive price.

Specifications of Bitumen VG 20

Bitumen VG 20 is a commonly used grade of bitumen that has specific technical specifications that determine its quality and suitability for different applications. Some of the typical specifications of Bitumen VG 20 are:

Penetration: The penetration value of Bitumen VG 20 at 25°C ranges between 60-80 dmm (decimeter millimeters).

Softening Point: The softening point of Bitumen VG 20 ranges between 45-52°C.

Ductility: The minimum ductility of Bitumen VG 20 at 25°C is 100 cm.

Solubility in TCE: The maximum solubility of Bitumen VG 20 in trichloroethylene is 99.5%.

Flash Point: The minimum flash point of Bitumen VG 20 is 250°C.

Density: The minimum density of Bitumen VG 20 at 25°C is 1.01 g/cm³.

These specifications ensure that Bitumen VG 20 has the necessary properties to provide good performance in different applications such as road construction, asphalt mixes, waterproofing, and bitumen emulsions. In addition, it's important to note that different regions or markets may have their own specific requirements for Bitumen VG 20, and buyers should consult with suppliers to ensure that the product meets their specific needs.

Analysis Table of Bitumen VG 20

Here is an example analysis table of Bitumen VG 20 that includes some of the typical technical specifications:It's important to note that the technical specifications of Bitumen VG 20 can vary depending on the manufacturer, supplier, and region. Therefore, buyers should consult with suppliers and review the technical data sheets to ensure that the product meets their specific requirements.

 

Property	Test Method	Result
Penetration	ASTM D5	50-60
Softening Point	ASTM D36	40-46
Ductility	ASTM D113	100 min
Specific Gravity	ASTM D70	1.01-1.06
Flash Point	ASTM D92	230 min.
Solubility in CS2	ASTM D4	99.5% min
Viscosity at 60°C	ASTM D2171	120-220 cSt
Elastic Recovery	ASTM D6084	70% min
Fraass Breaking Point	ASTM D113	-25°C max
Particle Charge	Zeta potential measurement	Negative
Wax Content	EN 14369	0.5% max
Penetration Index	ASTM D5	0.8-1.2