Viscosity Grade Bitumen
Viscosity Grade Bitumen or VG:
Viscosity grade bitumen is a fundamental property that determines how the material behaves at a certain temperature or a temperature range. The main unit of viscosity is pascal’s second (Pa s). The absolute viscosity or bitumen dynamics measured in pascal seconds is the shear stress applied to the sample in pascals divided by the shear rate per second (1 Pa = 10 Poise). The absolute viscosity of bitumen can be measured by a sliding plate viscometer. For many purposes, it is common to determine bitumen viscosity by measuring the time required for a given amount of material to pass through a standard orifice. These methods are suitable for determining and comparing; if needed, the results can be converted to more fundamental viscosity units.
Applications for viscosity grade bitumen:
The viscosity class of bitumen is called a grade of refinery bitumen obtained from the vacuum aeration of the distillation tower and divided according to their viscosity. The most common use of this type of bitumen is in road construction, insulation, building construction, and
liquid bitumen production. In terms of place of use, VG30 bitumen is more suitable for temperate climates.
Classification for Viscosity grade bitumen:
viscosity grade test is measured at 60 and 135, which is the the temperature of the road surface in summer and the temperature of mixing asphalt, respectively. The degree of penetration at a temperature of 25 degrees, which is the the average annual temperature of the asphalt coating is also specified in the specifications of this bitumen standard. The category of viscosity grade of bitumen is classified based on the
viscosity test results. This category of bitumen, which has many uses in hot areas, will soon replace penetrating bitumen.
Different types of viscosity grade bitumen:
The viscosity grade of bitumen is a kind of standard bitumen that is suitable for paving stone, road construction, and asphalt production with special characteristics. Due to its elastic properties, it is used for very strong and flexible connections. As a producer and supplier of different viscosity grades of bitumen, Grand petroleum Company is ready to cooperate and provide your requests for sale in the domestic and foreign markets (exports).
Note: AC bitumen is Asphalt cement solid whose abbreviation is AC, which is obtained from the distillation of crude oil.
- Bitumen AC-2.5
Bitumen AC-2.5 is asphalt cement with a viscosity of 250 poises at 60c. viscosity grade of bitumen AC-2.5 is the softest grade among all of
the bitumen. Bitumen AC-2.5 is known to the low viscosity, soft bitumen mixtures can’t be produced to improve resistance to displacement and other problems associated with high temperatures and heavy traffic loads.
- Bitumen AC-5
Bitumen AC5 is a kind of bituminous asphalt, because of its low viscosity this grade of bitumen is mostly used in cold regions. This asphalt is suitable for cold countries like Canada. The temperatures of storage for AC5 are preferred at 135°C to 163°C. High temperatures can increase hardening and heating costs. Bitumen AC5 is suitable to be used for road construction in cold climates. Also, Bitumen AC5 is suitable for manufacturing asphalt mixes, emulsion for some grades of bitumen, modified bitumen, and cut-
back bitumen.
Availability and Ordering:
Grand petroleum Company Bitumen Penetration Grade AC is available in different packages ready to meet domestic and international market demands.
- Stainless steel drum
- Bulk
- Jumbo Bag
- Flexi Tanks
To inquire about the latest pricing or to initiate an order, Contact Grand Petroleum Sales
- Bitumen AC-10
Bitumen AC10 is the result of the heaviest cut of crude oil. The most common application of this elastic compound is related to the
the construction industry, the production of moisture insulation, the production of some chemical compounds and most importantly, the road construction industry. Also, the combination of bitumen AC10 with sand is called asphalt to repair, renovate, and establish roads. Intra-city and inter-city routes are used.
- Bitumen AC-20
Bitumen AC20 is been categorized according to Viscosity (degree of fluidity) grading. In other words, The higher the grade, the stiffer the
Bitumen.
Bitumen AC20is a kind of standard bitumen that is suitable for paving stone, road construction, and asphalt production with special
characteristics. Due to its elastic properties, it is used for very strong and flexible connections.
- Bitumen AC-30
Bitumen AC 30 is a grade of Viscosity for Bitumen that this Viscosity of the standard bitumen (asphalt) is measured at 60 degrees. The main
usage of bitumen AC 30 is in road making in hot temperate regions. The applications of bitumen AC 30 are suitable for road construction
projects in warm & dry regions. Also, it can be useful for producing some kind of asphalt primer. Bitumen AC 30 is used in road construction, surfacing, and some industrial applications and manufacture asphalt mixes, bitumen emulsion, cut-back bitumen, and modified bitumen.
- Bitumen AC-40
Bitumen AC40 is suitable for the construction of sidewalks and asphalt in tropical areas such as tropical belts in India or even in the south of
our country, Iran; It should be considered when buying bitumen. Since bitumen AC40 has high stability in hot weather, it has received special attention for the repair or construction of roads and sidewalks in tropical areas where the average air temperature is high.
Also, the versatility of Bitumen AC40 to be used in hot mix asphalt has made the demand for this product and the purch
Viscosity stands as a pivotal technological and functional parameter within the realm of bituminous binders. Various definitions and test methods underscore its importance. In the context of bitumen, viscosity embodies the internal friction encountered as particles shift between layers.
Bitumens, akin to liquids, possess intricate rheological traits. Their viscosity fluctuates in response to temperature, shear rate, test duration, and the methodological nuances employed. Thus, ensuring the comparability of viscosity results mandates adherence to meticulously defined measurement conditions: appropriate temperature, calibrated measuring systems, consistent shear rates, and standardized testing durations.
Deviation from these conditions may render comparisons and substitutions of viscosity results erroneous, potentially yielding misleading conclusions. Notably, the inverse relationship between bitumen temperature and viscosity underscores its utility in establishing viscosity-temperature characteristics, vital for determining pumping temperatures, aggregate coating, and pavement compaction.
Yet, caution must be exercised, particularly with polymer modified bitumen and highly modified bitumen HiMA, whose unique properties stemming from polymer compositions render conventional viscosity-temperature relations inadequate for precise temperature determinations. In such cases, temperatures derived from these relations should be viewed as approximate, reflecting the complexity of the materials involved.
Imagine a road basking under the summer sun, its surface firm yet flexible. This remarkable characteristic is largely thanks to a hidden hero: bitumen. But what exactly is bitumen, and how does its viscosity play such a crucial role in road construction?
Think of bitumen as the black glue that holds everything together. It’s a complex liquid with a personality all its own, and one of its defining features is its resistance to flow, which we call viscosity. Just like honey thickens in the fridge and thins when warmed, bitumen’s viscosity changes with temperature. The hotter it gets, the more easily it flows.
This temperature sensitivity is crucial. When constructing roads, we need bitumen that’s flexible enough in cold weather to withstand cracks, yet firm enough in hot weather to prevent ruts from forming under heavy traffic.
Here’s where Viscosity Grade Bitumen comes in. It’s specially graded based on its viscosity, like a spectrum from thin and runny (VG10) to thick and sluggish (VG40). Choosing the right grade for the job is essential. Imagine using honey for road construction in the summer – it would be a sticky mess!
But bitumen is more than just a temperature-sensitive glue. It also boasts impressive adhesion, clinging tightly to the stones (aggregates) used in asphalt mixes. This keeps our roads strong and prevents them from crumbling under pressure.
Furthermore, bitumen is durable, standing up to harsh weather and the constant wear and tear of traffic. It’s even water-resistant, protecting the road base from water damage, which can be a major enemy of asphalt.
And don’t forget its elasticity. Just like a rubber band, bitumen can stretch and return to its original shape, allowing it to absorb the impact of vehicles without cracking.
So, the next time you drive on a smooth, resilient road, remember the silent hero beneath your tires – bitumen. It’s a fascinating material, and understanding its viscosity and other properties is key to building roads that are built to last.
Test | Viscosity | |||||
AC-2/5 | AC-5 | AC-10 | AC-20 | AC-30 | AC-40 | |
Viscosity at 60° C | 250±50 | 500±100 | 1000±200 | 2000±400 | 3000±600 | 4000±800 |
Viscosity at 135° C | 125 | 175 | 250 | 300 | 350 | 400 |
Penetration at 25° C, 100 grams, Five Seconds | 220 | 140 | 80 | 60 | 50 | 40 |
Flash point, Cleveland Open Cup | 163 | 177 | 219 | 232 | 232 | 232 |
Solubility in Trichloroethylene | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 | 99/0 |
Test on the Residue of Thin Bitumen Layer | ||||||
Heating Loss | 1/0 | 0/5 | 0/5 | 0/5 | 0/5 | |
Viscosity at 60° C | 1000 | 2000 | 4000 | 8000 | 12000 | 16000 |
Ductility at 25° C, 5cm/min | 100 | 100 | 75 | 50 | 40 | 25 |
Stain Test | ||||||
Naphtha Solvent | Negative | |||||
Naphtha-Xylene Savent, Xylene Percentage | Negative | |||||
What is Viscosity Bitumen
Asphalt, or Bitumen, is an essential commodity in today’s construction market, mainly used in the construction and maintenance of roads and roofs. The viscosity that Bitumen has is one of the main factors that define the ability of the material to perform its function and endure the required amount of work. In this detailed post, we are going to discuss the viscosity of Bitumen in detail, the methods of measuring it, the factors that affect it, and the role it plays in different industries.
bitumen viscosity also defined as the internal friction of fluids which opposes the motion of one part of the fluid relative to that of another. In the context of Bitumen, viscosity is described as the substance’s tendency to deform or flow in response to an applied stress. Bitumen is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons, and several factors, including temperature, influence its viscosity: As the temperature increases, the Bitumen’s viscosity decreases, making it highly sensitive to temperature. This property is very important in bitumen processing and its application since it defines the ease of handling and pumping of the material.
Shear Rate: This is because the increase in shear stress or rate at which the Bitumen is deformed definitely influences its viscosity. It is also important to note that the Bitumen does not obey the Newtonian viscosity model; that is, the bitumen viscosity is dependent on the rate of shear stress applied.
Aging: Later, the properties of bitumen change, both chemically and physically, which results in its viscosity increase. This process, well understood by engineers as aging, affects the performance and the useful life of bitumen-based products.
In paving, roofing, waterproofing, and sealants, the viscosity of the Bitumen plays a crucial role. It affects the ease of use, flow characteristics, and functionality of bitumen-related products.
Measuring Bitumen Viscosity
This article aims to examine the ways of measuring the viscosity of Bitumen since it is crucial to maintain the quality and performance of the material. There are many methods used in the industry in testing, and all come with their strengths and weaknesses.
Common Viscosity Test Methods for Bitumen
Penetration Test: This test determines the extent to which a standardized needle penetrates a bitumen sample at a given load, time, and temperature. For this reason, the penetration value has an inverse relationship with the viscosity of the Bitumen.
Rotational Viscometer: This instrument determines the amount of torque needed to turn a spindle or bob placed in the sample of the Bitumen at a particular speed and temperature. As the viscosity of the lubricating oil is proportional to the torque value and the characteristics of the spindle, the viscosity data is determined.
Capillary Viscometer: This method makes an effort to force the bitumen sample through a capillary tube at a particular temperature and pressure. Viscosity is established by taking the time a given volume of Bitumen takes to flow through a capillary.
Every test method has its strengths and weaknesses in regard to the range of viscosity that can be tested, preparation of the sample, precision of the results, and the ability to replicate the results.
Effects of Temperature and Shear Rate on the Measurements
In the test, temperature and shear rate should be taken into account when determining the viscosity of Bitumen. The viscosity of Bitumen is strongly related to the temperature; that is, as the temperature increases, the viscosity of Bitumen decreases significantly. Thus, viscosity measurements are usually done at specified temperatures so that results can be compared.
Also, it is equally important to note that the rate at which the viscosity is determined can potentially influence the results. Bitumen has a non-Newtonian nature, and this indicates that it has variable viscosity in response to the rate of shear stress applied to it. This is of particular interest in cases where, for example, pumping, mixing, and spraying are used, during which Bitumen experiences different levels of shear rate.
Temperature as a Factor that Influences Viscosity of Bitumen
Temperature is one big thing that affects how thick or thin Bitumen feels. The hotter it gets, the easier Bitumen becomes to work because of its low viscosity. When the temperature goes down, Bitumen’s viscosity increases and becomes hard and unworkable for use in construction during low temperatures.
Another thing that can change how we use viscosity is temperature changes. When making roads, the binder (Bitumen) must be at a certain temperature to have the desired thickness for mixing, compacting, and applying layers. Even in actions such as roofing, Bitumen must have the correct thickness (viscosity) so that it can soak and bond with the roof’s surface more effectively.
The study looks into the way Bitumen behaves when subjected to different shear rates – for example, how its viscosity changes due to an increase in flow rate while processing the material.
Based on this, Bitumen can be classified as a non-Newtonian fluid. In simpler terms, it means that the viscosity of bitumen changes with the rate at which shear is applied to it. They discovered in the first region that at low shear rates, Bitumen displays characteristics of a pseudo-plastic fluid where the viscosity decreases as shearing increases – an example of this behavior would be “shear thinning” or pseudoplasticity.
At higher shear rates, there will most probably be a characteristic of shear thickening. This term refers to an unusual behavior where the viscosity of the substance being considered gets thicker as its shearing rate goes up. The material under discussion here is Bitumen (commonly known as asphalt). It’s important to note that this effect can be observed in particular types of bitumen grades or when additives/modifiers are present.
The impact of shear rate on bitumen viscosity becomes very useful for actions like pumping, mixing, and spraying because the substance frequently experiences varying rates of shearing. For instance, when you are pumping Bitumen through pipes, its thickness can be influenced by several elements such as the diameter, size of pipe opening, flow speed, or how hot it is, among other things. The complexities linked with changes in shearing speed play a significant part in controlling and boosting effectiveness in these activities.
Modifying Bitumen Viscosity
The impact of shear rate on bitumen viscosity becomes very useful for actions like pumping, mixing, and spraying because the substance frequently experiences varying rates of shearing. For instance, when you are pumping Bitumen through pipes, its thickness can be influenced by several elements such as the diameter, size of pipe opening, flow speed, or how hot it is, among other things. The complexities linked with changes in shearing speed play a significant part in controlling and boosting effectiveness in these activities.
In multiple uses, we apply viscosity modifiers and additives to change the stickiness of Bitumen. It helps in getting a specific performance or improving its workability and durability.
Viscosity Modifiers and Additives
Polymers such as styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) are used to make bitumen adhesive and reduce its temperature sensitivity. This change in polymers helps Bitumen work more effectively under very high or very low temperatures.
The change in Bitumen’s viscosity and the fiber type, such as cellulose or mineral fibers, give it enhanced attributes. It especially adds stability and shape resistance when exposed to high temperatures.
If we talk about Fischer-Tropsch or paraffin wax, this can make the Bitumen’s thickness different and also influence its sensitivity to heat. Commonly, blending these waxes with other components for a particular use is done until they become as thick as required.
To select an appropriate thickness adjustor and determine the amount necessary for this, think about your level of work as well as its special application. However, it is important to run tests on it to determine if it meets all the required specifications laid down for new products by law firms, which some people say could even be used in conjunction with industry standards as a way toward compliance. Through these evaluations, you can be sure that modified Bitumen complies with mandatory regulations and operational norms while still meeting industrial demands.
Applications Requiring Specific Bitumen Viscosity
In different applications, Bitumen has varying viscosity requirements. This is based on elements like temperature situations, construction methods, and expected performance.
Paving and Road Construction: Bitumen viscosity is very important for the mixing, compacting, and application processes in road construction. The asphalt mixture needs certain viscosity ranges to work properly, stick well, and last long. For instance, hot mix asphalt usually needs a viscosity range between 0.1 to 0.3 Pa·s at mixing temperatures around 150-165°C.
Roofing Membranes: The viscosity of Bitumen in roofing membranes and the saturation and adhesion of reinforcement materials like fiberglass or polyester mats can be impacted by bitumen viscosity. The usual need for roofing bitumen’s viscosity is about 0.5 to 2.0 Pa·s at an application temperature of around 180-220°C (You et al., 2019).
For Sealants and Waterproofing: Bitumen-based sealants and materials used for waterproofing need a certain range of viscosity to make sure they are applied correctly, stick well, and keep working over time. The rules on how thick it should be might change based on the way you apply it, like troweling or spraying/pouring, as well as what kind of surface we’re dealing with (for example, rough versus smooth).
Choosing the right bitumen grade and viscosity modifier for each application is very important. It makes sure that it performs well and lasts long, meeting all the needed conditions precisely.
Best Practices for Working with Bitumen
Bitumen could be used in many beneficial ways. But, it should be handled with care for safety, quality, and environmental purposes.
Proper Storage and Handling
Store bitumen in appropriate containers or tanks, protected from moisture and contamination.
Maintain recommended storage temperatures to ensure consistent viscosity and prevent degradation.
Always handle the substance properly, using the correct personal safety equipment like heat-resistant gloves, eye protection glasses, and breathing tools if needed.
Safety Considerations
- Fumes and Vapours: Bitumen can give off fumes and vapors, especially when it becomes hot. Make sure there is good ventilation, and wear appropriate breathing gear if you are working in tight or poorly aired spaces.
- Bitumen can irritate and burn the skin if not handled properly. Wear clothes that protect you, such as gloves that resist heat and coveralls for guarding against hot Bitumen during work activities.
- Follow all relevant safety guidelines and regulations specific to your region or industry.
Environmental Impacts and Sustainability
- Align with regional and national rules for managing waste related to bitumen goods and byproducts.
- Study the usage of bitumen modifiers that are environmentally friendly and sustainable, like bio-based polymers or recyclable materials, to lessen ecological effects.
- Investigate techniques for recycling and reusing bitumen-based products, promoting a circular economy approach.
The construction area is a major user of Bitumen, so using this material responsibly and getting the most out of its characteristics and performance are important. To achieve these objectives, we need to follow many best practices that mainly focus on safety, quality, and the environment.
Emerging Trends and Future Outlook
The future of the bitumen industry is not a fixed path. It keeps changing because of new technologies, worries about the environment, and changes in what the market needs. Some upcoming trends and what could happen in the future are:
Research into Bio-based Bitumen Modifiers
Similarly, as the world shifts towards sustainability, there is growing interest in creating bio-based bitumen modifiers. These can be obtained from renewable sources like vegetable oils, lignin, or cellulose. The utilization of modifications such as these displays possibilities to enhance the performance and eco-friendliness of products made out of Bitumen while also decreasing reliance on fossil fuels.
Impact of Climate Change on Bitumen Viscosity Needs
In the days ahead, there is a likelihood that climate change will cause more severe temperature circumstances. This could influence the necessity of particular viscosity for Bitumen in diverse applications like roads and buildings. As an example, some places might need Bitumen that can resist rutting better and has greater stability at higher heat levels due to increasing temperatures. Those who are studying this area and working in the industry seek methods to alter Bitumen’s thickness with regard to these weather variations.
Potential Future Applications
In the coming days, with the progress of technology, Bitumen could be used fresh, but it needs certain demands on its viscosity. For example, using Bitumen in energy storage systems such as thermal energy storage or phase change materials might necessitate tailor-made viscosity profiles to improve performance and efficiency.
In construction and other sectors, we must keep studying, advancing, and creating to deal with problems that can come up and identify new possibilities.
Case Study: Viscosity Optimization in Asphalt Pavement
For a big road rebuilding job, we needed an asphalt mix that could handle very high or low temperatures and still be easy to work with while building the road. The problems were:
- Temperature susceptibility
- Workability during paving
- Long-term durability
To deal with these, a specific plan for changing viscosity was made that involved using modifiers of polymer and waxes.
- Styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) polymers improved temperature susceptibility and elastic properties.
- Fischer-Tropsch wax enhanced low-temperature performance and high-temperature stiffness for rutting resistance.
From laboratory tests and field trials, the good bitumen mixture showed an appropriate viscosity profile that matched the project’s needs.
The viscosity-optimized asphalt mixture was successfully applied, providing:
- Improved workability during construction
- Enhanced temperature resistance
- Increased service life and reduced maintenance
This study shows how crucial it is to make changes in bitumen viscosity to achieve the desired performance in asphalt paving projects.
Conclusion and summary
The thickness of Bitumen is substantial; it influences the performance and versatility of this material in various activities – for example, constructing roads or roofs and sealing things. To understand how to use Bitumen effectively, we must consider elements that influence its viscosity. These include heat levels (temperature), how fast it’s stirred/mixed (shear rate), and what stage of time has passed since production – called the aging process.
Tests like penetration tests, rotational viscometers, and capillary viscometers are used to measure Bitumen’s quality and performance. Also, we can change the thickness of Bitumen by adding polymer fibers or wax. This helps to adjust its qualities in order for it to match with what we need for a certain usage.
In the future, it will be very important for the construction field to pay attention to new patterns and sustainable methods in bitumen viscosity modification. This involves studying bio-based modifiers, adjusting to climate change effects, and finding fresh uses of these materials.
People working in this field need to know and use new findings as well as good methods of Bitumen’s thickness. This aids them in using the substance carefully to construct infrastructure that lasts and functions well.
