Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60
What is Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60?
Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is a type of bitumen (also known as asphalt or tar) used in road construction and maintenance. It is classified as a penetration-grade bitumen, which means it is a viscous, black, and sticky substance with a relatively high molecular weight that is used to bind aggregate particles together in asphalt concrete.
The numbers "40/60" in the name refer to the penetration value, which is a measure of the hardness or consistency of the bitumen. The penetration value is determined by the depth in tenths of a millimeter that a standard needle penetrates vertically into the bitumen sample under standardized conditions of temperature and loading.
In the case of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60, the penetration value ranges from 40 to 60, with a mid-range value of 50. This indicates that the bitumen is relatively soft and can be used in moderate to warm climates, where the temperature range typically does not go below 10°C or above 40°C.
Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is commonly used in road construction and surfacing, as well as in waterproofing and sealing applications. It is also used as a binder in the production of asphalt concrete for paving roads, airport runways, and parking lots.
Quality of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60
The quality of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is determined by various physical and chemical properties, such as penetration, softening point, ductility, solubility, and flash point. These properties affect the performance and durability of the bitumen in different applications.
Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is considered a high-quality bitumen due to its specific physical and chemical characteristics, such as:
Penetration: It has a penetration value of 40-60 dmm, which means it has good workability and adhesion properties, making it suitable for use in a wide range of temperatures.
Softening point: The softening point of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is typically between 48-56°C, which indicates that it has good thermal stability and resistance to deformation at high temperatures.
Ductility: It has a minimum ductility of 100 cm at 25°C, which means it can stretch without breaking and is resistant to fatigue, cracking, and deformation.
Solubility: It has a high solubility in various organic solvents, such as toluene and trichloroethylene, which makes it easier to mix and process.
Flash point: It has a minimum flash point of 220°C, which means it is safe to handle and transport.
Overall, Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is a high-quality bitumen that meets the international standards of ASTM, EN, and BS. It is commonly used in road construction and maintenance, waterproofing, and sealing applications due to its excellent performance and durability.
History of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60
The use of bitumen in construction dates back to ancient times. The ancient Egyptians used bitumen to waterproof their boats, while the Babylonians used it to pave their streets. However, the modern production and use of bitumen began in the 19th century.
Penetration grading of bitumen was introduced in the early 20th century as a way to standardize the quality and consistency of bitumen used in road construction. The penetration test was developed in 1903 by the French engineer Paul Darcy, and it became the basis for the first penetration grading system, which was introduced in France in 1928.
The development of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 specifically is not well-documented, but it likely emerged as a standardized grade of bitumen in the mid-20th century, as demand for high-quality bitumen increased for road construction and maintenance.
Today, Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is widely used in road construction and maintenance, as well as in other industries such as roofing, waterproofing, and sealing. Its standardized properties make it easier to specify and procure for various applications, ensuring consistent performance and durability.
Usages of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60
Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is a versatile material that has various uses in different industries. Here are some of the most common usages of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60:
Road construction and maintenance: Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is widely used as a binder in the production of asphalt concrete for paving roads, airport runways, and parking lots. It is also used for surface dressing and as a tack coat to improve the adhesion of asphalt layers.
Waterproofing and sealing: Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is used as a waterproofing and sealing agent in various applications, such as roofing, foundation walls, and concrete structures. It provides a durable and flexible barrier against water and moisture, protecting the underlying surfaces from damage.
Industrial applications: Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is used in various industrial applications, such as pipe coating, tank lining, and insulation. It provides excellent corrosion resistance and thermal insulation properties, making it suitable for harsh environments and high-temperature applications.
Agriculture: Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is used in agriculture for soil stabilization and erosion control. It is mixed with soil to improve its strength and stability, preventing erosion and loss of topsoil.
Other applications: Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is also used in other applications, such as adhesives, coatings, and inks. Its excellent adhesive and bonding properties make it suitable for various applications that require a strong and durable bond.
Overall, Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is a versatile material that has many uses in different industries. Its specific physical and chemical properties make it suitable for a wide range of applications, ensuring consistent performance and durability.
Packing of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60
Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is usually packed in two types of containers: drums and bulk bags.
Drums: Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is typically packed in steel drums with a capacity of 180 kg or 200 kg. The drums are lined with an anti-rust coating and have a tight-fitting lid to prevent moisture and air from entering. The drums are palletized and shrink-wrapped for safe and easy transport.
Bulk bags: Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is also available in bulk bags, which are flexible intermediate bulk containers (FIBCs) with a capacity of 500 kg, 1000 kg, or 1500 kg. The bags are made of high-strength woven polypropylene and have a built-in spout for easy filling and discharge. The bags are palletized and stretch-wrapped for safe and easy transport.
In both cases, the packaging is designed to protect the bitumen from moisture, air, and other contaminants that could affect its quality and performance. The packaging also makes it easier to handle, store, and transport the bitumen, ensuring that it reaches its destination in good condition.
Prices of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60
The price of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 can vary depending on several factors, such as the region, supply and demand, and market conditions. Other factors that can influence the price include the volume of purchase, the quality of the product, and the packaging.
As of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021, the price of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 in the international market ranged from around USD 300 to USD 450 per metric tonne (MT). However, it is important to note that prices can fluctuate over time and vary by region and supplier.
It is also worth noting that the price of bitumen is influenced by the price of crude oil, as bitumen is a byproduct of the refining process. Therefore, changes in the price of crude oil can impact the price of bitumen.
Overall, the price of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 can vary and is subject to market conditions and various factors, so it is important to obtain current pricing information from reputable suppliers.
Delivery time and Readiness of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60
The delivery time and readiness of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 can depend on various factors, such as the availability of the product, the location of the supplier, and the volume of the order. Here are some general guidelines regarding the delivery time and readiness of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60:
Availability: Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is a commonly used grade of bitumen, so it is generally readily available from suppliers who specialize in bitumen products. However, the availability can vary depending on the supplier and location.
Location: The location of the supplier and the delivery destination can impact the delivery time of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60. If the supplier is located close to the delivery destination, the delivery time will generally be shorter than if the supplier is located far away.
Volume: The volume of the order can also impact the delivery time of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60. Large orders may require more time for production and processing, which can result in a longer delivery time.
Delivery method: The delivery method can impact the delivery time of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60. If the product is delivered by truck, the delivery time will generally be shorter than if it is delivered by ship or rail.
In general, Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60 is a commonly used grade of bitumen, and suppliers are generally able to provide timely delivery. However, it is important to communicate with the supplier to confirm the delivery time and ensure that the product is ready and available for delivery.
Analysis Table of Penetration Grade Bitumen 40/60
| Test Method | Unit | Specification |
| Penetration @ 25°C | 0.1 mm | 40-60 |
| Softening Point | °C | 52-60 |
| Ductility @ 25°C | cm | Min. 100 |
| Loss on Heating | % | Max. 0.2 |
| Drop in Penetration after Heating | % | Max. 20 |
| Flash Point | C | Min. 250 |
| Solubility in Trichloroethylene | % | Min. 99.0 |
| Spot Test | --- | Negative |