To begin with, cutback bitumen refers to a range of binders created by blending penetration grade bitumen with a hydrocarbon solvent, such as paraffin or mineral turpentine. When the solvent evaporates, the binder reverts to its original penetration grade, effectively tying the particles together. This unique process gives cutback bitumen its name, as the solvent “cuts back” or evaporates, allowing the binder to “get on with the job.” In this context, the solvent used in cutback bitumen is often referred to as the “cutter” or “flux.”
Moreover, three primary types of solvents play a crucial role in the blending process: slow-curing, medium-curing, and rapid-curing solvents. Notably, the latter two types commonly appear in South Africa. The choice of solvent significantly influences the rate at which the bitumen cures when exposed to air. For instance, a rapid-curing (RC) solvent evaporates faster than a medium-curing (MC) solvent. Thus, this curing process directly relates to the evaporation rate of the solvent, which influences the setting time of the bitumen.
Furthermore, the proportion of solvent added determines the viscosity of cutback bitumen. In other words, the higher the proportion of solvent, the lower the viscosity of the cutback bitumen. As a result, cutbacks differ from penetration grade bitumen in terms of workability. Specifically, cutback bitumen becomes easier to reshape. Additionally, less heat is required to liquefy cutback bitumen compared to penetration bitumen, making it easier to use at lower temperatures.
When discussing typical examples of cutback bitumen, one might encounter MC 30 and RC 250. In these designations, the letters indicate the curing action of the solvent, while the numbers refer to the viscosity of the binder. This naming convention helps users quickly understand the properties of the cutback bitumen they work with.
One significant advantage cutback bitumen offers over emulsions lies in the higher residual bitumen percentage. Typically, cutback bitumen contains over 80% residual bitumen, compared to the 40-65% found in bitumen emulsions. Consequently, this higher percentage results in more bitumen remaining on the roadway after curing for the same volume of binder applied.
However, it is important to consider the environmental regulations surrounding cutback bitumen. Specifically, cutback asphalts contain volatile chemicals that can evaporate into the atmosphere. In contrast, emulsified asphalts primarily evaporate water. Additionally, users face the loss of high-energy products, as the petroleum solvents used in cutback bitumen require a higher amount of energy to manufacture and tend to be more expensive compared to the water and emulsifying agents used in emulsified asphalts.
In conclusion, cutback bitumen offers a versatile and effective solution for various applications in construction, By thoroughly understanding its components, properties, and advantages, users can make informed decisions about the best binder for their specific needs, Moreover, this knowledge empowers users to select the right product for their unique applications, thereby enhancing project outcomes. Ultimately, cutback bitumen represents an important option for achieving durable and reliable construction results. Additionally, the versatility and adaptability of cutback bitumen ensure it meets the demands of various construction scenarios, reinforcing its value in the industry. Consequently, incorporating cutback bitumen into projects not only leads to improved performance and longevity but also benefits all stakeholders involved. Therefore, as users recognize its significance, they can confidently integrate cutback bitumen into their construction practices, resulting in successful and sustainable infrastructure development.
To begin with, liquid bitumen grades encompass various types specifically tailored to meet diverse construction and maintenance needs. Among these, Slow Curing bitumen, often known as “road oils,” typically originates from the fractional distillation of specific crude petroleums. Furthermore, cutback bitumen is a highly versatile material that finds numerous applications in the construction and maintenance of roads and pavements.
In light of its adaptability, below are some key applications, each accompanied by an explanation of how cutback bitumen is utilized in various scenarios.
To begin with, cutback bitumen is commonly used in prime and tack coating processes. For instance, when applying a prime coat, a low-viscosity binder is applied to a prepared, typically unbound aggregate base. This process allows the binder to be absorbed by the upper layers of the base, thereby creating a surface that can be more effectively “wetted” by subsequent bituminous layers. Generally, the application rates for primers range from 0.5 to 1.4 L/m². Moreover, cutback bitumen suitable for priming can also be used in tack coats, which are applied to an underlying surface to enhance adhesion for subsequent asphalt layers. Specifically, the typical application rate for tack coats lies between 0.2 and 0.4 L/m².
In addition to prime and tack coats, another critical application of cutback bitumen is in prime sealing. This is particularly beneficial in situations where temperatures are too low for effective priming or where traffic may disturb a primed surface before the final seal can be applied. Therefore, a primer seal can provide adequate pavement protection for a period of 6 to 12 months. Additionally, cutback bitumen suitable for primer sealing can be utilized in the manufacture of pre-mix asphalt for patch repairs.
Furthermore, cutback bitumen excels in spray sealing applications, especially in cooler weather conditions. The lower viscosity of cutback bitumen in these temperatures significantly improves initial stone retention. Typically, a single application of the appropriate cutback bitumen is sprayed onto the primed pavement, followed by the laying of aggregate. This process ensures a strong bond between the aggregate and the binder, thus promoting long-lasting pavement performance.
Moreover, cutback bitumen is often used in patching materials designed for cold weather applications. In this context, various grades of cutback bitumen, such as MC-30, serve as medium-curing cut-back asphalt, which consists of penetration-grade asphalt cement combined with a diluent of medium volatility. Notably, this diluent temporarily reduces the viscosity of the asphalt cement, facilitating easier handling and application. Once applied, the diluent evaporates, allowing the asphalt cement to perform effectively.
In addition to the above applications, cutback bitumen can also be utilized in various road surface treatments. By enhancing the durability and longevity of pavements, it provides a protective layer that can withstand environmental stresses, such as moisture and temperature fluctuations. Consequently, the unique properties of cutback bitumen contribute to maintaining a smooth and safe driving surface.
Finally, cutback bitumen can also be applied for the stabilization of unsealed roads. By treating unbound aggregates with cutback bitumen, the surface becomes more resilient to weather and traffic conditions, ultimately reducing dust generation and improving ride quality.
In summary, cutback bitumen is an essential component in various applications related to road construction and maintenance. Its unique properties make it a preferred choice for tasks such as priming, tack coating, spray sealing, patch repairs, and road surface treatments. By understanding its capabilities and applications, construction professionals can effectively leverage cutback bitumen to enhance the performance and longevity of their projects. Therefore, cutback bitumen plays a vital role in modern construction practices, ensuring reliable and durable infrastructure.
When it comes to applications, cutback bitumen plays a crucial role in pavement construction and maintenance. For instance, the process of prime and tack coating involves applying a low viscosity binder to a prepared, typically unbound aggregate base. This process not only allows the binder to be absorbed by the top layers of the base but also results in a surface that is more easily “wetted” by subsequent bituminous coverings. Generally, primers apply at rates between 0.5 and 1.4 L/m²; meanwhile, cutback bitumen suitable for priming also serves in tack coats. Notably, tack coats, which are applied to an underlying surface, significantly enhance adhesion for subsequent asphalt layers, with a typical application rate between 0.2 and 0.4 L/m².
Moreover, prime sealing represents another critical application of cutback bitumen. In situations where temperatures are too cool for effective priming or where traffic may disturb a primed surface before the final seal can be applied, a primer seal can provide adequate pavement protection for 6 to 12 months. Additionally, cutback bitumen suitable for primer sealing can also be utilized in the manufacture of pre-mix asphalt for patch repairs.
Furthermore, spray sealing is another area where cutback bitumen excels, particularly in cooler weather. In such conditions, cutback bitumen provides improved initial stone retention due to its lower viscosity. Typically, a single application of the appropriate cutback bitumen is sprayed onto the primed pavement, followed by the laying of aggregate. As a result, this method ensures effective bonding between layers, which contributes to overall durability.
Common grades such as liquefied MC30, MC70, MC250, and MC3000 clearly demonstrate the versatility of cutback bitumen, For instance, liquid bitumen use often restricts itself to patching materials designed for cold weather, meanwhile In this context, MC-30 serves as a medium curing (MC) cut-back asphalt, which consists of penetration grade asphalt cement combined with a diluent of medium volatility. Notably, this diluent temporarily reduces the viscosity of the asphalt cement, thereby facilitating easier handling and application. Consequently, this characteristic allows for greater flexibility in various construction scenarios.
Furthermore, after application, the diluent evaporates, allowing the asphalt cement to effectively perform its intended function. This process clearly underscores the efficiency and practicality of using cutback bitumen in diverse scenarios, ultimately making it a preferred choice for many applications, Additionally, this versatility enhances its appeal across different sectors, further solidifying its position in the market.
In conclusion, cutback bitumen not only provides essential solutions but also caters to a wide range of construction and maintenance needs, By gaining a deeper understanding of its unique properties and advantages, users can effectively select the right product to meet their specific requirements. Moreover, cutback bitumen ultimately represents a valuable option for achieving durable and reliable infrastructure. Therefore, it significantly contributes to successful project outcomes in the construction industry, thereby reinforcing its importance in modern construction practices. Furthermore, ongoing advancements in cutback bitumen technology continue to expand its applications, ensuring it remains a key player in the industry. Consequently, professionals should consider cutback bitumen as a viable solution for their construction projects.
Property | SC-70 | SC-250 | SC-800 | SC-3000 | Test Methods |
Kinematic viscosity at 60°C, mm²/s | 70 (min) / 140 (max) | 250 (min) / 500 (max) | 800 (min) / 1600 (max) | 3000 (min) / 6000 (max) | ASTM D-2170 |
Flash point (Cleveland open cup), °C | 66 (min) | 79 (min) | 93 (min) | 107 (min) | ASTM D-92 |
Distillation test: | ASTM D-402 | ||||
Total distillate to 360°C, volume % | 10 (min) / 30 (max) | 4 (min) / 20 (max) | 2 (min) / 12 (max) | – / 5 | |
Solubility in trichloroethylene, % | 99.0 (min) | 99.0 (min) | 99.0 (min) | 99.0 (min) | ASTM D-2042 |
Kinematic viscosity on distillation residue at 60°C, mm²/s | 400 (min) / 7000 (max) | 800 (min) / 10000 (max) | 2000 (min) / 16000 (max) | 4000 (min) / 35000 (max) | ASTM D-2170 |
Asphalt residue: | ASTM D-243 | ||||
– Residue of 100 penetration, % | 50 (min) | 60 (min) | 70 (min) | 80 (min) | ASTM D-5 |
– Ductility of 100 penetration residue at 25°C, cm | 100 (min) | 100 (min) | 100 (min) | 100 (min) | ASTM D-113 |
Water, % | – | 0.5 (max) | – | 0.5 (max) | ASTM D-95 |
—
Slow Curing Liquid Bitumen Specification
The specifications for Slow Curing (SC) liquid bitumen are as follows:
Firstly, the kinematic viscosity at 60°C is specified to be a minimum of 70 mm²/s and a maximum of 140 mm²/s, as outlined in ASTM D-2170. In addition, the flash point (Cleveland open cup) must reach a minimum of 66°C, according to ASTM D-92. Moreover, during the distillation test (ASTM D-402), the total distillate to 360°C, volume %, should be no less than 10% and no more than 30%. In terms of solubility in trichloroethylene, a minimum of 99.0% is required, as per ASTM D-2042. Furthermore, the kinematic viscosity on distillation residue at 60°C should fall between a minimum of 400 mm²/s and a maximum of 7000 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170).
When it comes to asphalt residue (ASTM D-243), the residue of 100 penetration must be at least 50%. Additionally, the ductility of the 100 penetration residue at 25°C is required to have a minimum value of 100 cm, as stated in ASTM D-113. Finally, it is important to note that the water content must not exceed 0.5% (ASTM D-95).
For SC-250, the kinematic viscosity at 60°C must be a minimum of 250 mm²/s and a maximum of 500 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170). Furthermore, the flash point (Cleveland open cup) should reach at least 79°C (ASTM D-92). In addition, during the distillation test (ASTM D-402), the total distillate to 360°C, volume %, needs to be no less than 4% and no more than 20%. Moreover, it is essential that the solubility in trichloroethylene maintains a minimum of 99.0% (ASTM D-2042).
The kinematic viscosity on distillation residue at 60°C is required to be between a minimum of 800 mm²/s and a maximum of 10,000 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170). When it comes to asphalt residue (ASTM D-243), the residue of 100 penetration must be at least 60%. Additionally, the ductility of the 100 penetration residue at 25°C is required to have a minimum value of 100 cm (ASTM D-113). Finally, it is worth noting that the water content must not exceed 0.5% (ASTM D-95).
In the case of SC-800, the kinematic viscosity at 60°C must fall between a minimum of 800 mm²/s and a maximum of 1600 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170). Furthermore, the flash point (Cleveland open cup) should reach a minimum of 93°C (ASTM D-92). Additionally, during the distillation test (ASTM D-402), the total distillate to 360°C, volume %, must be no less than 2% and no more than 12%. Moreover, it is important to ensure that the solubility in trichloroethylene is at least 99.0% (ASTM D-2042).
The kinematic viscosity on distillation residue at 60°C must range from a minimum of 2000 mm²/s to a maximum of 16,000 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170). When examining asphalt residue (ASTM D-243), the residue of 100 penetration should be no less than 70%. Additionally, the ductility of the 100 penetration residue at 25°C is required to have a minimum value of 100 cm (ASTM D-113). Lastly, it is critical that the water content must not exceed 0.5% (ASTM D-95).
Lastly, for SC-3000, the kinematic viscosity at 60°C should be between a minimum of 3000 mm²/s and a maximum of 6000 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170). Furthermore, the flash point (Cleveland open cup) needs to be a minimum of 107°C (ASTM D-92). Additionally, during the distillation test (ASTM D-402), the total distillate to 360°C, volume %, must not exceed 5%. Moreover, it is important to note that the solubility in trichloroethylene is required to be at least 99.0% (ASTM D-2042).
The kinematic viscosity on distillation residue at 60°C must range from a minimum of 4000 mm²/s to a maximum of 35,000 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170). When considering asphalt residue (ASTM D-243), the residue of 100 penetration should be no less than 80%. Additionally, the ductility of the 100 penetration residue at 25°C is required to have a minimum value of 100 cm (ASTM D-113). Finally, it is essential that the water content must not exceed 0.5% (ASTM D-95).
These specifications comprehensively outline the necessary properties for Slow Curing liquid bitumen, ensuring that it consistently meets performance standards for various applications.
Medium Curing (MC) | MC-30 | MC-70 | MC-250 | MC-800 | MC-3000 | Test Methods | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Property | Min | Max | Min | Max | Min | Max | Min | Max | Min | Max | |
Kinematic viscosity at 60°C, mm2/s | 30 | 60 | 70 | 140 | 250 | 500 | 800 | 1600 | 3000 | 6000 | ASTM D-2170 |
Flash point (Cleveland open cup), °C | 38 | – | 38 | – | 66 | – | 66 | – | 66 | – | ASTM D-92 |
Distillation test: Distillate, volume percent of total distillate to 360°C: | ASTM D-402 | ||||||||||
to 225°C | – | 35 | – | 25 | – | 20 | – | – | – | – | |
to 260°C | 30 | 75 | 10 | 70 | 5 | 55 | – | 40 | – | 15 | |
to 316°C | 75 | 95 | 65 | 93 | 60 | 90 | 45 | 85 | 15 | 75 | |
Residue from distillation to 360°C, percent volume by difference | 50 | – | 55 | – | 67 | – | 75 | – | 80 | – | |
Tests on residue from distillation: | |||||||||||
Viscosity at 60°C, Pa | 30 | 120 | 30 | 120 | 30 | 120 | 30 | 120 | 30 | 120 | |
Ductility at 25°C, cm | 100 | – | 100 | – | 100 | – | 100 | – | 100 | – | ASTM D-113 |
Solubility in trichloroethylene, % | 99.0 | – | 99.0 | – | 99.0 | – | 99.0 | – | 99.0 | – | ASTM D-4 |
Water, % | – | 0.2 | – | 0.2 | – | 0.2 | – | 0.2 | – | 0.2 | ASTM D-95 |
The specifications for Medium Curing (MC) liquid bitumen are detailed as follows:
To begin with, the kinematic viscosity at 60°C must range from a minimum of 30 mm²/s to a maximum of 60 mm²/s, as specified in ASTM D-2170. Additionally, the flash point (Cleveland open cup) is required to be at least 38°C, according to ASTM D-92. Moreover, during the distillation test (ASTM D-402), the total distillate to 360°C must show the following volume percentages: up to 225°C, the distillate should not exceed 35%; up to 260°C, a minimum of 30% and a maximum of 75% is acceptable; and up to 316°C, the distillate must range between 75% and 95%.
Furthermore, the residue from distillation to 360°C should account for at least 50% by volume. In terms of the tests conducted on the residue from distillation, the viscosity at 60°C must range from a minimum of 30 Pa to a maximum of 120 Pa. Additionally, the ductility at 25°C is required to have a minimum value of 100 cm, as stated in ASTM D-113. Furthermore, the solubility in trichloroethylene must be a minimum of 99.0% (ASTM D-4). Lastly, it is critical that the water content does not exceed 0.2% (ASTM D-95).
For MC-70, the kinematic viscosity at 60°C must be between a minimum of 70 mm²/s and a maximum of 140 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170). Moreover, the flash point (Cleveland open cup) should also be at least 38°C (ASTM D-92). In the distillation test (ASTM D-402), the total distillate to 360°C must show the following ranges: up to 225°C, a maximum of 25%; up to 260°C, between 10% and 70%; and up to 316°C, between 65% and 93%.
Additionally, the residue from distillation to 360°C must represent at least 55% by volume. When examining the residue from distillation, the viscosity at 60°C should be within the range of 30 Pa to 120 Pa. Furthermore, the ductility at 25°C must again meet the minimum requirement of 100 cm (ASTM D-113). The solubility in trichloroethylene must maintain at least 99.0% (ASTM D-4), and the water content must not exceed 0.2% (ASTM D-95).
Turning to MC-250, the kinematic viscosity at 60°C should be a minimum of 250 mm²/s and a maximum of 500 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170). In addition, the flash point (Cleveland open cup) is required to reach at least 66°C (ASTM D-92). Furthermore, during the distillation test (ASTM D-402), the total distillate to 360°C must indicate: up to 225°C, no more than 20%; up to 260°C, between 5% and 55%; and up to 316°C, between 60% and 90%.
Moreover, the residue from distillation to 360°C must comprise at least 67% by volume. For the residue tests, the viscosity at 60°C must range between 30 Pa and 120 Pa. Ductility at 25°C must also meet the minimum requirement of 100 cm (ASTM D-113). Furthermore, the solubility in trichloroethylene must not be less than 99.0% (ASTM D-4), and the water content is capped at 0.2% (ASTM D-95).
Regarding MC-800, the kinematic viscosity at 60°C is specified to be a minimum of 800 mm²/s and a maximum of 1600 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170). Additionally, the flash point (Cleveland open cup) must be at least 66°C (ASTM D-92). In the distillation test (ASTM D-402), the total distillate to 360°C should indicate the following: up to 225°C, a maximum of 0%; up to 260°C, no less than 40%; and up to 316°C, ranging between 45% and 85%.
Furthermore, the residue from distillation to 360°C is required to be a minimum of 75% by volume. The viscosity at 60°C for the residue should remain between 30 Pa and 120 Pa. Ductility at 25°C must again reach the minimum of 100 cm (ASTM D-113), Additionally, the solubility in trichloroethylene must maintain a minimum of 99.0% (ASTM D-4), and the water content should not exceed 0.2% (ASTM D-95).
Lastly, for MC-3000, the kinematic viscosity at 60°C is required to be between a minimum of 3000 mm²/s and a maximum of 6000 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170). Furthermore, the flash point (Cleveland open cup) must reach at least 66°C (ASTM D-92). In the distillation test (ASTM D-402), the total distillate to 360°C must indicate the following: up to 225°C, a maximum of 0%; up to 260°C, a maximum of 15%; and up to 316°C, no less than 15% and no more than 75%.
Moreover, the residue from distillation to 360°C should represent at least 80% by volume. For the residue tests, the viscosity at 60°C must range from 30 Pa to 120 Pa. Ductility at 25°C must also maintain the minimum of 100 cm (ASTM D-113). Lastly, the solubility in trichloroethylene must be a minimum of 99.0% (ASTM D-4), and the water content should not exceed 0.2% (ASTM D-95).
In conclusion, these specifications provide a comprehensive overview of the necessary properties for Medium Curing liquid bitumen, thereby ensuring that it meets the required performance standards for various applications.
Rapid Curing Cutback Bitumen Specification
The specifications for Rapid Curing (RC) liquid bitumen are detailed as follows:
To begin with, for RC-70, the kinematic viscosity at 60°C must range from a minimum of 70 mm²/s to a maximum of 140 mm²/s, as stipulated by ASTM D-2170. Additionally, the flash point (Cleveland open cup) does not have a specified minimum value. Furthermore, in the distillation test (ASTM D-402), the total distillate to 360°C should indicate the following volume percentages: up to 190°C, there is a minimum of 10%; up to 225°C, a maximum of 35%; up to 260°C, at least 70%; and up to 316°C, a minimum of 85%. Moreover, the residue from distillation to 360°C should constitute at least 55% by volume.
Moving on to the tests on the residue from distillation, the viscosity at 60°C must be between 60 Pa and 240 Pa. In addition, the ductility at 25°C is required to have a minimum value of 100 cm, as stated in ASTM D-113. Also, the solubility in trichloroethylene must maintain a minimum of 99.0% (ASTM D-4), while the water content should not exceed 0.2% (ASTM D-95).
Next, for RC-250, the kinematic viscosity at 60°C must be set between a minimum of 250 mm²/s and a maximum of 500 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170). Notably, the flash point (Cleveland open cup) is also not defined with a minimum value. Furthermore, in the distillation test (ASTM D-402), the total distillate to 360°C should meet these specifications: up to 190°C, there is no maximum limit; up to 225°C, a maximum of 15%; up to 260°C, a minimum of 60%; and up to 316°C, a minimum of 80%. Additionally, the residue from distillation to 360°C must comprise at least 65% by volume.
In terms of the tests on the residue, the viscosity at 60°C must remain between 60 Pa and 240 Pa. Similarly, the ductility at 25°C must meet the minimum requirement of 100 cm (ASTM D-113). Moreover, the solubility in trichloroethylene must remain a minimum of 99.0% (ASTM D-4). Finally, the water content should not exceed 0.2% (ASTM D-95).
Continuing with RC-800, the kinematic viscosity at 60°C should be set between a minimum of 800 mm²/s and a maximum of 1600 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170). Furthermore, the flash point (Cleveland open cup) is again not specified with a minimum value. In the distillation test (ASTM D-402), the total distillate to 360°C should be evaluated as follows: up to 190°C, there is no maximum limit; up to 225°C, a maximum of 15%; up to 260°C, a minimum of 45%; and up to 316°C, a minimum of 75%. Additionally, the residue from distillation to 360°C must represent at least 75% by volume.
Regarding the tests on the residue, the viscosity at 60°C must range between 60 Pa and 240 Pa. Furthermore, the ductility at 25°C is required to have a minimum value of 100 cm (ASTM D-113). Additionally, the solubility in trichloroethylene must be at least 99.0% (ASTM D-4), and the water content must not exceed 0.2% (ASTM D-95).
Finally, for RC-3000, the kinematic viscosity at 60°C must range from a minimum of 3000 mm²/s to a maximum of 6000 mm²/s (ASTM D-2170). Moreover, the flash point (Cleveland open cup) does not have a specified minimum value. In the distillation test (ASTM D-402), the total distillate to 360°C should follow these guidelines: up to 190°C, there is no maximum limit; up to 225°C, a maximum of 0%; up to 260°C, a maximum of 25%; and up to 316°C, a minimum of 70%. Additionally, the residue from distillation to 360°C should constitute at least 80% by volume.
In terms of the tests on the residue from distillation, the viscosity at 60°C must range between 60 Pa and 240 Pa. Similarly, the ductility at 25°C should maintain the minimum requirement of 100 cm (ASTM D-113). Furthermore, the solubility in trichloroethylene must remain a minimum of 99.0% (ASTM D-4), while the water content should not exceed 0.2% (ASTM D-95).
In conclusion, these specifications provide a comprehensive overview of the necessary properties for Rapid Curing liquid bitumen. Consequently, they ensure that the product meets the performance standards required for various applications.
Download catalog