Bitumen 40/50

Description of bitumen 40/50

The term “40/50” in bitumen 40/50 indicates that its penetration value ranges from 40 to 50 mm/10 under standard test conditions. This grade of bitumen serves as a paving grade, making it ideal for road construction and repairs. It is produced by aerating the vacuum bottom, which is the raw material remaining after the vacuum distillation process in oil refineries. The penetration grade, which measures the bitumen’s hardness, falls between 40 and 50. Bitumen specifications include both penetration and softening point tests, but the penetration range remains the main factor in design. Importantly, bitumen exhibits thermoplastic properties, meaning it softens at higher temperatures and hardens at lower ones. This unique temperature-viscosity relationship proves essential when assessing parameters such as adhesion, rheology, durability, and application temperatures.

Furthermore, the temperature-viscosity relationship of bitumen depends on the type of crude oil and its refining method. As a result, bitumen penetration grade 40/50 is classified as semi-hard. This grade is ideal for road construction and repair. It also plays a significant role in the production of asphalt pavements, as detailed in the technical specifications below. Bitumen 40/50 serves as a fundamental material for manufacturing hot mix asphalt for base and wearing courses. Additionally, bitumen 40/50 is one of the most commonly used grades, and it forms the basis for producing other bituminous products.

Uses of bitumen 40/50

Bitumen 40/50 is ideal for road construction and repair, especially for high-performance asphalt pavements. It plays a key role in producing hot mix asphalt for base and wearing courses. This product proves particularly useful in tropical regions where weather conditions pose unique challenges. Notably, bitumen 40/50 undergoes oxidation during production, enhancing its performance properties. Due to its high air blowing and penetration characteristics, bitumen 40/50 excels in warm climates, maintaining its quality without softening at high temperatures.

Softening point and penetration of bitumen 40/50

Jey Pasargad supplies bitumen 40/50 as pure petroleum-grade bitumen, produced from vacuum bottom material by passing hot air through it. This bitumen originates from the residual crude oil after the cracking and hydrocarbon removal processes. Bitumen 40/50 features a penetration range of 40 to 50 desi-millimeters and a softening point between 52°C and 60°C. As with other penetration grades, bitumen 40/50 displays thermoplastic properties, softening when heated and hardening upon cooling. Compared to other grades, bitumen 40/50 has a higher viscosity, which enhances its performance under varying conditions.

Application of bitumen penetration grade 40/50

Bitumen 40/50 is perfect for road construction and repair, particularly in tropical regions. It plays a significant role in manufacturing hot mix asphalt for base and wearing courses. Additionally, oxidation during production enhances its properties, ensuring it performs well in warm climates. Bitumen 40/50 maintains its stability and does not soften at high temperatures, which makes it ideal for roads in tropical regions.

Guarantee/Warranty

Jey Pasargad guarantees the quality of bitumen 40/50 by arranging for international inspectors to verify the quality and quantity of the bitumen during the loading process. The company ensures strict quality control measures, with batch test reports available before shipment. Jey Pasargad guarantees that the bitumen complies with ASTM/EN 12591 standards.

Specification and analysis

– Specific gravity @ 25°C: ASTM D70, 1.01-1.06 kg/cm³
– Penetration @ 25°C: ASTM D5, 40-50 mm/10
– Softening point: ASTM D36, 52-60°C
– Ductility @ 25°C: ASTM D113, minimum 100 cm
– Loss on heating: ASTM D6, maximum 0.2 wt%
– Drop in penetration after heating: ASTM D5-D6, maximum 20%
– Flash point: ASTM D92, minimum 250°C
– Solubility in CS2: ASTM D4, minimum 99.5 wt%
– Spot test: AASHTO 102, negative

Download PDF

Download catalog