Bitumen 40/50 is a high-quality penetration grade bitumen widely used in road construction, asphalt paving, and industrial applications. Produced by the distillation of selected crude oils, this grade of bitumen is a hard binder designed for regions with hot climates and areas subjected to heavy traffic loads. Its penetration value makes it slightly softer than Bitumen 35/50, providing an optimal balance between stiffness and flexibility.
Bitumen 40/50 is a high-quality penetration grade bitumen widely used in road construction, asphalt paving, and industrial applications. Produced by the distillation of selected crude oils, this grade of bitumen is a hard binder designed for regions with hot climates and areas subjected to heavy traffic loads. Its penetration value makes it slightly softer than Bitumen 35/50, providing an optimal balance between stiffness and flexibility.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Penetration at 25°C | 40 – 50 (0.1 mm) |
| Softening Point (R&B) | 50 – 58 °C |
| Flash Point (COC) | Minimum 230 °C |
| Ductility at 25°C | Minimum 100 cm |
| Specific Gravity at 25°C | Approx. 1.01 g/cm³ |
| Solubility in Trichloroethylene | ≥ 99.5 % |
| Loss on Heating (163°C, 5h) | ≤ 0.2 % |
These specifications make Bitumen 40/50 suitable for high-temperature regions and construction projects requiring a durable binder with medium penetration.
• Durability under heavy traffic: Provides resistance to rutting, cracking, and permanent deformation.
• Thermoplastic nature: Softens at high temperatures and hardens upon cooling, ensuring strong adhesion to aggregates.
• Oxidation and weathering resistance: Maintains long-term stability under various environmental conditions.
• Workability: Easier to handle and mix compared to harder grades like Bitumen 35/50.
• Road and highway paving: Particularly suited for expressways and urban roads with intense traffic.
• Airport runways and taxiways: Endures high tire pressure and heavy aircraft loads.
• Industrial flooring and pavements: For areas exposed to mechanical stress and heavy machinery.
• Asphalt concrete production: Enhances stability in hot climates.
• Infrastructure in tropical and warm regions: Prevents surface softening and deformation during peak summer conditions.
Bitumen 40/50 is typically supplied in:
• New steel drums (200 kg net)
• Jumbo bags (1 MT)
• Bulk cargo shipments for large-scale projects
• Store in cool, ventilated areas, away from open flames and direct heat sources.
• Ensure safe handling with protective equipment to avoid burns or skin contact.
• Heating temperature should not exceed 200°C to avoid cracking or fire hazards.
• Always follow international safety standards and occupational health guidelines