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Bitumen Types and Grades

Zahra Esmaili

October 2, 2019

9 minutes

Table of content

Penetration Grade Bitumen
VG Bitumen
PG Bitumen
AH Bitumen
AC Bitumen
Oxidized Bitumen
Cutback Bitumen
Emulsion Bitumen
Gilsonite

Types and grades of bitumen are classified based on several factors, such as penetration, viscosity, and composition.

Additionally, we can classify bitumen differently based on their origins:

Refinery Bitumen: Known as bitumen for short, it’s derived from crude oil.
Natural Bitumen: With a chemical composition similar to refinery bitumen, this form is found in nature either in pitch lakes or as lumps extracted from mines.

Bitumen classification systems have expanded over time to reach the best performance of bitumen in different projects.

Read this article to discover key information about bitumen types, grades, and their differences.

Penetration Grade Bitumen

Penetration bitumen is the most commonly used type of bitumen in road construction. It is categorized into several grades based on a penetration test that measures bitumen hardness at 25°C.

60/70 and 80/100 are two widely used penetration grades. For a balance of flexibility and durability, bitumen 60/70 is a popular choice with a penetration range of 60 to 70.

With a higher penetration range, the bitumen 80/100 is softer and more resistant to cracking, making it suitable for colder climates.

Beyond road construction, penetration bitumen also finds applications in waterproofing and other construction-related activities.

Learn about the different types of bitumen used in road layers, from subgrade to surface course. (+Infographic)

In the table below, you can see the specifications for this grade:

Bitumen Penetration Grade 30/40 Specifications
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Min.	Max.
Specific Gravity at 25 °C	ASTM D70	–	1.01	1.06
Penetration at 25 °C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	30	40
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	51	60
Ductility at 25 °C	ASTM D113	cm	100	–
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	–	0.5
Drop in Penetration after Heating	ASTM D5	%	–	20
Flash Point	ASTM D92	°C	250	–
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	ASTM D2042	wt.%	99.5	–
Spot Test	AASHTO T102	Negative

Bitumen Penetration Grade 35/50 Specifications
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Min.	Max.
Specific Gravity at 25 °C	ASTM D70	–	1.01	1.06
Penetration at 25 °C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	35	50
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	52	60
Ductility at 25 °C	ASTM D113	cm	100	–
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	–	0.2
Drop in Penetration after Heating	ASTM D5	%	–	20
Flash Point	ASTM D92	°C	250	–
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	ASTM D2042	wt.%	99	–
Spot Test	AASHTO T102	Negative

Bitumen Penetration Grade 40/50 Specifications
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Min.	Max.
Specific Gravity at 25 °C	ASTM D70	–	1.01	1.06
Penetration at 25 °C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	40	50
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	52	60
Ductility at 25 °C	ASTM D113	cm	100	–
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	–	0.2
Drop in Penetration after Heating	ASTM D5	%	–	20
Flash Point	ASTM D92	°C	250	–
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	ASTM D2042	wt.%	99	–
Spot Test	AASHTO T102	Negative

Bitumen Penetration Grade 50/70 Specifications
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Min.	Max.
Penetration at 25 °C, 100g, 5s	EN 1426	0.1mm	50	70
Softening Point	EN 1427	°C	46	54
Kinematic Viscosity@135 °C	EN 12595	CST	295	–
Penetration Index	EN12591	mm	-1.5	+ 0.7
Flash Point	EN 2592	°C	230	–
Solubility in Toluene or Xylene	EN 12592	wt.%	99	–
Spot Test	AASHTO T102	Negative

Bitumen Penetration Grade 60/70 Specifications
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Min.	Max.
Specific Gravity at 25 °C	ASTM D70	–	1.01	1.06
Penetration at 25 °C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	60	70
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	49	56
Ductility at 25 °C	ASTM D113	cm	100	–
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	–	0.2
Drop in Penetration after Heating	ASTM D5	%	–	20
Flash Point	ASTM D92	°C	250	–
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	ASTM D2042	wt.%	99	–
Spot Test	AASHTO T102	Negative

Bitumen Penetration Grade 70/100 Specifications
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Min.	Max.
Specific Gravity at 25 °C	EN 15326	–	1.01	1.05
Penetration at 25 °C, 100g, 5s	EN 1426	0.1mm	70	100
Softening Point	EN 1427	°C	43	53
Ductility at 25 °C	EN 13589	cm	100	–
Loss on Heating	EN 12607	wt.%	–	0.5
Flash Point	EN 2592	°C	225	–
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	EN 12592	wt.%	99	–
Spot Test	AASHTO T102	Negative

Bitumen Penetration Grade 80/100 Specifications
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Min.	Max.
Specific Gravity at 25 °C	ASTM D70	–	1.01	1.05
Penetration at 25 °C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	80	100
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	42	52
Ductility at 25 °C	ASTM D113	cm	100	–
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	–	0.5
Flash Point	ASTM D92	°C	225	–
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	ASTM D2042	wt.%	99	–
Spot Test	AASHTO T102	Negative

Bitumen Penetration Grade 85/100 Specifications
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Min.	Max.
Specific Gravity at 25 °C	ASTM D70	–	1.01	1.05
Penetration at 25 °C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	85	100
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	42	52
Ductility at 25 °C	ASTM D113	cm	100	–
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	–	0.5
Flash Point	ASTM D92	°C	225	–
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	ASTM D2042	wt.%	99	–
Spot Test	AASHTO T102	Negative

Bitumen Penetration Grade 100/120 Specifications
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Min.	Max.
Specific Gravity at 25 °C	ASTM D70	–	1.01	1.04
Penetration at 25 °C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	100	120
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	42	49
Ductility at 25 °C	ASTM D113	cm	100	–
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	–	0.2
Flash Point	ASTM D92	°C	–	250
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	ASTM D2042	wt.%	–	99.5
Spot Test	AASHTO T102	Negative

Bitumen Penetration Grade 200/300 Specifications
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Min.	Max.
Specific Gravity at 25 °C	ASTM D70	–	1.01	1.06
Penetration at 25 °C	ASTM D5	0.1mm	200	300
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	35	43
Ductility at 25 °C	ASTM D113	cm	100	–
Flash Point	ASTM D92	°C	230	–
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	ASTM D2024	wt.%	99	–
After Thin Film Oven Test (TFOT)
Penetration	ASTM D2872		46	–
Change of Mass	ASTM D2872	wt.%	–	0.8
Softening Point	ASTM D2872		–	11

Bitumen Penetration Grade 100/130 Specifications
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Min.	Max.
Specific Gravity at 25 °C	ASTM D70	–	1.01	1.04
Penetration at 25 °C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	100	130
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	42	49
Ductility at 25 °C	ASTM D113	cm	100	–
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	–	0.2
Flash Point	ASTM D92	°C	–	250
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	ASTM D2042	%WT	–	99.5
Spot Test	AASHTO T102	Negative

Sometimes the same grade of bitumen penetration has different behavior at high temperatures. It is the main weakness of this grading method. This led to the introduction of the viscosity grading system.

Viscosity Grade Bitumen (VG Bitumen)

The United States introduced the viscosity grading system in the late 20th century. Viscosity bitumen is graded based on viscosity at 60°C and 135°C.

In this type of bitumen, penetration at 25 °C is also measured. These properties help us to understand how bitumen responds to temperature fluctuations.

Viscosity at 60 °C shows bitumen’s resistance to flow in hot climate conditions. On the other hand viscosity at 135 °C determines the behavior of bitumen while its temperature is very high for preparing hot mix asphalt. Penetration at 25 °C measures consistency at room temperature.

Unlike the penetration test, which is an empirical method, the viscosity test of bitumen provides a more fundamental approach to analyzing bitumen’s behavior in a specific range of temperatures.

The highest consumption of VG bitumen is in India. Viscosity bitumen has four different grades that are VG10, VG20, VG30, and VG40. You can see their specification below:

Bitumen VG 10 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Test Method
Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ^◦C	Poise	Min 800	ASTM D4402
Kinematic Viscosity, at 135 ^◦C	CST	Min 250	ASTM D2170
Flash Point	^◦C	Min 220	ASTM D93
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	%wt	Min 99	ASTM D2042
Penetration Value, at 25 ^◦C	0.1mm	80-100	ASTM D5
Softening Point	^◦C	Min 40	ASTM D36
Thin-Film Oven Test (TFOT)
Viscosity Ratio, at 60 ^◦C	^◦C	Max 4	ASTM D4402
Ductility at 25 ^◦C	cm	Min 75	ASTM D113

Bitumen VG 20 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Test Method
Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ^◦C	Poise	Min 1600	ASTM D4402
Kinematic Viscosity, at 135 ^◦C	CST	Min 300	ASTM D2170
Flash Point	^◦C	Min 220	ASTM D93
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	%WT	Min 99	ASTM D2042
Penetration Value, at 25 ^◦C	0.1mm	60-80	ASTM D5
Softening Point	^◦C	Min 45	ASTM D36
Thin-Film Oven Test (TFOT)
Viscosity Ratio, at 60 ^◦C	^◦C	Max 4	ASTM D4402
Ductility at 25 ^◦C	Cm	Min 50	ASTM D113

Bitumen VG 30 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Test Method
Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ^◦C	Poise	Min 2400	ASTM D4402
Kinematic Viscosity, at135 ^◦C	CST	Min 350	ASTM D2170
Flash Point	^◦C	Min 220	ASTM D93
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	%wt	Min 99	ASTM D2042
Penetration Value, at 25 ^◦C	0.1mm	50-70	ASTM D5
Softening Point	^◦C	Min 47	ASTM D36
Thin-Film Oven Test (TFOT)
Viscosity Ratio, at 60 ^◦C	^◦C	Max 4	ASTM D4402
Ductility at 25 ^◦C	cm	Min 40	ASTM D113
Specific Gravity, at 25 ^◦C	–	Min 1.0131	ASTM D70

Bitumen VG 40 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Test Method
Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ^◦C	Poise	Min 3200	ASTM D4402
Kinematic Viscosity, at 135 ^◦C	CST	Min 400	ASTM D2170
Flash Point	^◦C	Min 220	ASTM D93
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	%wt	Min 99	ASTM D2042
Penetration Value, at 25 ^◦C	0.1mm	40-60	ASTM D5
Softening Point	^◦C	Min 25	ASTM D36
Thin-Film Oven Test (TFOT)
Viscosity Ratio, at 60 ^◦C	^◦C	Max 4	ASTM D4402
Ductility at 25 ^◦C, after thin film oven test	cm	Min 25	ASTM D113

Penetration and viscosity grade bitumen have some limitations in accurately predicting how bitumen will perform in real-world conditions. That’s where PG bitumen shines, providing a more reliable and scientific estimation.

Take a closer look at viscosity bitumen, for further details such as its meaning, advantages, applications, etc.

Performance Grade Bitumen (PG Bitumen)

PG bitumen is classified based on its ability to handle different temperatures and maintain desired properties.

Compared to traditional grading methods such as penetration and viscosity, PG bitumen focuses on the overall performance of the bitumen rather than its physical properties.

Performance grade bitumen is named with two numbers that show its performance ranges. For example, PG 76-16 indicates it’s resistant to temperatures as high as 76°C and as low as -16°C.

PG bitumen is evaluated using various rheological and aging tests. The Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR) measures its resistance to deformation, while the Pressurized Aging Vessel (PAV) simulates long-term aging. Additionally, Direct Tension (DT) tests determine its flexibility and resistance to cracking under repeated load applications.

These tests provide detailed information about long-term performance under varying stress and temperature conditions.

The table below lists the specifications for different grades of PG bitumen:

Bitumen PG 70-16 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Method
Average 7-Day Maximum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	< 70	–
Minimum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	> -16	–
Flash Point Temperature	°C	Min230	AASHTO T48
Viscosity Maximum 3 Pa.s, Test Temperature	°C	135	AASHTO T316
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 1 KPa Test Temperature**	°C	70	AASHTO T315
Rolling Thin Film Oven Test (AASHTO T240)
Mass Change	%	Max1.00	–
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	70	AASHTO T315
Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) Test (AASHTO R28)
PAV Aging Temperature	°C	100 (110)	AASHTO R28
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Maximum 5000 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	31	AASHTO T315
Creep Stiffiness S Maximum 300 Mpa M-Value Minimum 0.300 Test Temp,@60s	°C	-6	AASHTO T313
Direct Tension Failure Strain Minimum 1 % Test Temp@1mm/min,	°C	-6	AASHTO T314
Critical Low Cracking Temperature Critical Cracking Determined by PP42 Test Temp	–	-6	AASHTO PP42

Bitumen PG 76-10 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Method
Average 7-Day Maximum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	<76	–
Minimum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	> -10	–
Flash Point Temperature	°C	Min230	AASHTO T48
Viscosity, T 316, Maximum 3 Pas, Test Temp, °C	°C	135	AASHTO T316
Dynamic Shear, T 315,** G/sin Minimum 1.00 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s*,°C	°C	76	AASHTO T315
Rolling Thin Film Oven Test (T 240)
Mass Change, Maximum, Percent	%	1.00	AASHTO T240
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	76	AASHTO T315
Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) Test (AASHTO R28)
PAV Aging Temperature	°C	100	AASHTO R28
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Maximum 5000 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	37	AASHTO T315
Creep Stuffiness S Maximum 300 Mpa M-Value Minimum 0.300 Test Temp,@60s	°C	0	AASHTO T313
Direct Tension, T 314, Failure Strain, Minimum 0.300 Test Temperature, @60s, °C	°C	0	AASHTO T314
Critical Low Cracking Temp, PP42, Critical Cracking Temp Determined by PP 42,Test Temp, °C	–	0	AASHTO PP42

Bitumen PG 58-16 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Method
Average 7-Day Maximum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	<58	–
Minimum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	> -16	–
Flash Point Temperature	°C	Min230	AASHTO T48
Viscosity Maximum 3 Pa.s, Test Temperature	°C	135	AASHTO T316
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature**	°C	58	AASHTO T315
Rolling Thin Film Oven Test (T 240)
Mass Change, Maximum, Percent	%	Max1.00	AASHTO T240
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	58	AASHTO T315
Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) Test (AASHTO R28)
PAV Aging Temperature	°C	100	AASHTO R28
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Maximum 5000 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	25	AASHTO T315
Creep Stuffiness S Maximum 300 Mpa M-Value Minimum 0.300 Test Temp,@60s	°C	-6	AASHTO T313
Direct Tension Failure Strain Minimum 1 % Test Temp@1mm/min,	°C	-6	AASHTO T314
Critical Low Cracking Temperature Critical Cracking Determined by PP42 Test Temp	–	-6	AASHTO PP42

Bitumen PG 70-10 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Method
Average 7-Day Maximum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	70	–
Minimum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	> -10	–
Flash Point Temperature	°C	Min230	AASHTO T48
Viscosity Maximum 3 Pa.s, Test Temperature	°C	135	AASHTO T316
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature**	°C	70	AASHTO T315
Rolling Thin Film Oven Test (T 240)
Mass Change	%	Max1.00	AASHTO T240
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	70	AASHTO T315
Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) Test (AASHTO R28)
PAV Aging Temperature	°C	100	AASHTO R28
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Maximum 5000 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	34	AASHTO T315
Creep Stuffiness S Maximum 300 Mpa M-Value Minimum 0.300 Test Temp,@60s	°C	0	AASHTO T313
Direct Tension Failure Strain Minimum 1 % Test Temp@1mm/min,	°C	0	AASHTO T314
Critical Low Cracking Temperature Critical Cracking Determined by PP42 Test Temp	–	0	AASHTO PP42

Bitumen PG 82-10 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Method
Average 7-Day Maximum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	82	–
Minimum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	> -10	–
Flash Point Temperature	°C	Min230	AASHTO T48
Viscosity Maximum 3 Pa.s, Test Temperature	°C	135	AASHTO T316
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature**	°C	82	AASHTO T315
Rolling Thin Film Oven Test (T 240)
Mass Change	%	Max1.00	AASHTO T240
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	82	AASHTO T315
Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) Test (AASHTO R28)
PAV Aging Temperature	°C	100	AASHTO R28
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Maximum 5000 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	40	AASHTO T315
Creep Stuffiness S Maximum 300 Mpa M-Value Minimum 0.300 Test Temp,@60s	°C	0	AASHTO T313
Direct Tension Failure Strain Minimum 1 % Test Temp@1mm/min,	°C	0	AASHTO T314
Critical Low Cracking Temperature Critical Cracking Determined by PP42 Test Temp	–	0	AASHTO PP42

Bitumen PG 64-22 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Method
Average 7-Day Maximum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	64	–
Minimum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	> -22	–
Flash Point Temperature	°C	Min230	AASHTO T48
Viscosity Maximum 3 Pa.s, Test Temperature	°C	135	AASHTO T316
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature**	°C	64	AASHTO T315
Rolling Thin Film Oven Test (T 240)
Mass Change	%	Max1.00	AASHTO T240
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	64	AASHTO T315
Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) Test (AASHTO R28)
PAV Aging Temperature	°C	100	AASHTO R28
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Maximum 5000 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	46	AASHTO T315
Creep Stuffiness S Maximum 300 Mpa M-Value Minimum 0.300 Test Temp,@60s	°C	-24	AASHTO T313
Direct Tension Failure Strain Minimum 1 % Test Temp@1mm/min,	°C	-24	AASHTO T314
Critical Low Cracking Temperature Critical Cracking Determined by PP42 Test Temp	–	-24	AASHTO PP42

Bitumen PG 46-22 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Method
Average 7-Day Maximum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	46	–
Minimum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	> -22	–
Flash Point Temperature	°C	Min230	AASHTO T48
Viscosity Maximum 3 Pa.s, Test Temperature	°C	135	AASHTO T316
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature**	°C	46	AASHTO T315
Rolling Thin Film Oven Test (T 240)
Mass Change	%	Max1.00	AASHTO T240
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	46	AASHTO T315
Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) Test (AASHTO R28)
PAV Aging Temperature	°C	100	AASHTO R28
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Maximum 5000 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	46	AASHTO T315
Creep Stuffiness S Maximum 300 Mpa M-Value Minimum 0.300 Test Temp,@60s	°C	-24	AASHTO T313
Direct Tension Failure Strain Minimum 1 % Test Temp@1mm/min,	°C	-24	AASHTO T314
Critical Low Cracking Temperature Critical Cracking Determined by PP42 Test Temp	–	-24	AASHTO PP42

Bitumen PG 52-28 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Method
Average 7-Day Maximum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	52	–
Minimum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	> -28	–
Flash Point Temperature	°C	Min230	AASHTO T48
Viscosity Maximum 3 Pa.s, Test Temperature	°C	135	AASHTO T316
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature**	°C	52	AASHTO T315
Rolling Thin Film Oven Test (T 240)
Mass Change	%	Max1.00	AASHTO T240
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	52	AASHTO T315
Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) Test (AASHTO R28)
PAV Aging Temperature	°C	100	AASHTO R28
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Maximum 5000 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	46	AASHTO T315
Creep Stuffiness S Maximum 300 Mpa M-Value Minimum 0.300 Test Temp,@60s	°C	-24	AASHTO T313
Direct Tension Failure Strain Minimum 1 % Test Temp@1mm/min,	°C	-24	AASHTO T314
Critical Low Cracking Temperature Critical Cracking Determined by PP42 Test Temp	–	-24	AASHTO PP42

Bitumen PG 76-22 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Method
Average 7-Day Maximum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	<76	–
Minimum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	> -22	–
Flash Point Temperature	°C	>230	AASHTO T48
Viscosity, T 316, Maximum 3 Pas, Test Temp, °C	°C	135	AASHTO T316
Dynamic Shear, T 315,** G/sin Minimum 1.00 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s*,°C	°C	76	AASHTO T315
Rolling Thin Film Oven Test (T 240)
Mass Change, Maximum, Percent	%	1.00	AASHTO T240
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	>2.2	AASHTO T315
Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) Test (AASHTO R28)
Dynamic Shear, T 315, *G/sin, Maximum 5000 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	31	AASHTO T315
Creep Stuffiness, T 313, S, Maximum 300 Mpa, m-value, minimum 0.300 Test Temperature, @60s, °C	°C	-12	AASHTO T313
Direct Tension, T 314, Failure Strain, Minimum 0.300 Test Temperature, @60s, °C	°C	-12	AASHTO T 240
Critical Low Cracking Temp, PP42, Critical Cracking Temp Determined by PP 42,Test Temp, °C	°C	-12	ASTM D8225

Bitumen PG 76-16 Specification
Specification	Unit	Value	Method
Average 7-Day Maximum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	<76	–
Minimum Pavement Design Temperature	°C	> -16	–
Flash Point Temperature	°C	Min230	AASHTO T48
Viscosity, T 316, Maximum 3 Pas, Test Temp, °C	°C	135	AASHTO T316
Dynamic Shear, T 315,** G/sin Minimum 1.00 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s*,°C	°C	76	AASHTO T315
Rolling Thin Film Oven Test (T 240)
Mass Change, Maximum, Percent	%	1.00	AASHTO T240
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Minimum 2.2 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	76	AASHTO T315
Pressure Aging Vessel (PAV) Test (AASHTO R28)
PAV Aging Temperature	°C	100	AASHTO R28
*Dynamic Shear G/sin Maximum 5000 KPa Test Temperature, @10 rad/s**	°C	34	AASHTO T315
Creep Stuffiness S Maximum 300 Mpa M-Value Minimum 0.300 Test Temp,@60s	°C	-6	AASHTO T313
Direct Tension, T 314, Failure Strain, Minimum 0.300 Test Temperature, @60s, °C	°C	-6	AASHTO T314
Critical Low Cracking Temp, PP42, Critical Cracking Temp Determined by PP 42,Test Temp, °C	–	-6	AASHTO PP42

AH Bitumen

AH bitumen is a popular bitumen type in the China market. They are graded based on penetration value at 25°C, like penetration grades. However, they have some differences in their tests and specifications.

In contrast to the penetration grading system, viscosity at 60 °C is also measured in AH bitumen. The temperature of 60 °C corresponds to the highest pavement temperature during hot summer when rutting problems occur. Therefore, knowing the viscosity of bitumen at this temperature helps to better control one of the main problems of pavement distress.

Another difference is the testing of AH bitumen’s ductility at both 10 and 15 °C.

At 15 °C, AH bitumen has a ductility of over 100 cm, while penetration bitumen reaches the same ductility at 25°C. This indicates that AH bitumen can maintain its flexibility well even in cold weather.

The most widely used grade of AH bitumen is AH 70, also referred to as bitumen 60/80, due to its ideal penetration range of 60 to 80 dmm.

The specifications for AH bitumen grades are shown in the table below:

Specification of Infinity Galaxy Bitumen AH-50
SPECIFICATION	UNIT	VALUE	TEST METHOD
Penetration	1/10 Millimetres (mm	40-50	ASTM D5
Softening Point	Degree Celsius (°C)	48-56	ASTM D36
Density, 25°C	Kilogram per Cubic Meter (kg/m³)	1.000/1.060	ASTM D71/D3289
Ductility, 25°C	Centimetres per Second (cm/s)	100 min	ASTM D113
Loss On Heating	Weight Percentage (WT%)	0.2 Max	ASTM D6
Drop-in Penetration After Heating	Percentage (%)	20 max	ASTM D6/D5
Flash Point (Cleveland Open Cup)	Degree Celsius (°C)	250 min	ASTM D92
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	Weight Percentage (WT%)	99.5 min	ASTM D4
Spot Test	Negative (−) or Positive (+)	Negative	AASHOT 102 *
Bitumen Content	Percentage	99.9 min	ASTM D4

Specification of Infinity Galaxy Bitumen AH-70
SPECIFICATION	UNIT	VALUE	TEST METHOD
Penetration 25°C	1/10 Millimeters (mm)	60-80	ASTM D5
Softening Point	Degree Celsius (°C)	Min 42	ASTM D36
Density, 15°C	Kilogram per Cubic Meter (kg/m³)	1.000/1.060	ASTM D70
Ductility, 15°C, 5CM/MIN	Centimeters	Min 100	ASTM D113
Ductility, 10°C, 5CM/MIN	Centimeters	Min 20	ASTM D113
Flash Point	Degree Celsius (°C)	Min 260	ASTM D92
Dynamic Viscosity 60°C	Poises	Min 130	ASTM D2171
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	Weight Percentage (WT%)	Min 99.5	ASTM D 2042
Penetration Index	–	-1.5/1.0	–
AFTER TFOT AT 163 ˚C ASTM D1754
LOSS Of WEIGHT	–	-0.8/0.8	ASTMD1754
RETAINED PENETRATION RATIO %	Percentage(%)	Min 61	ASTM D5
Ductility, 25°C, 5CM/MIN	Centimeters	Min 6	ASTM D113

Specification of Infinity Galaxy Bitumen AH-90
SPECIFICATION	UNIT	VALUE	TEST METHOD
Penetration	1/10 Millimetres (mm	80-100	ASTM D5
Softening Point	Degree Celsius (°C)	42-52	ASTM D36
Density, 25°C	Kilogram per Cubic Meter (kg/m³)	1.000/1.060	ASTM D71/D3289
Ductility, 25°C	Centimetres per Second (cm/s)	100 min	ASTM D113
Loss On Heating	Weight Percentage (WT%)	0.5 Max	ASTM D6
Drop-in Penetration After Heating	Percentage (%)	20 max	ASTM D6/D5
Flash Point (Cleveland Open Cup)	Degree Celsius (°C)	225 min	ASTM D92
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	Weight Percentage (WT%)	99 min	ASTM D4
Loss of Weight	Percentage (%)	0.8 max	ASTM D1754
Retained Penetration After Thin Film	Percentage (%)	50 min	ASTM D5
Ductility 25°C After Thin Film Oven	Centimetres per Second (cm/s)	100 min	ASTM D113
Ductility 15°C After Thin Film Oven	Centimetres per Second (cm/s)	100 min	ASTM D113
Temperature	Degree Celsius (°C)	Max 90-110 above the Soft
Bitumen Content	Percentage (%)	99.9 min	ASTM D4

Specification of Infinity Galaxy Bitumen AH-110
SPECIFICATION	UNIT	VALUE	TEST METHOD
Penetration	1/10 Millimetres (mm	80-110	ASTM D5
Softening Point	Degree Celsius (°C)	45-52	ASTM D36
Density, 25°C	Kilogram per Cubic Meter (kg/m³)	1.000/1.060	ASTM D71/D3289
Ductility, 25°C	Centimetres per Second (cm/s)	100 min	ASTM D113
Loss On Heating	Weight Percentage (WT%)	0.5 Max	ASTM D6
Drop-in Penetration After Heating	Percentage (%)	20 max	ASTM D6/D5
Flash Point (Cleveland Open Cup)	Degree Celsius (°C)	225 min	ASTM D92
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	Weight Percentage (WT%)	99 min	ASTM D4
Loss of Weight	Percentage (%)	0.8 max	ASTM D1754
Retained Penetration After Thin Film	Percentage (%)	50 min	ASTM D5
Ductility 25°C After Thin Film Oven	Centimetres per Second (cm/s)	100 min	ASTM D113
Ductility 15°C After Thin Film Oven	Centimetres per Second (cm/s)	100 min	ASTM D113
Temperature	Degree Celsius (°C)	Max 90-110 above the Soft
Bitumen Content	Percentage (%)	99.9 min	ASTM D4

Specification of Infinity Galaxy Bitumen AH-130
SPECIFICATION	UNIT	VALUE	TEST METHOD
Penetration	1/10 Millimetres (mm	80-130	ASTM D5
Softening Point	Degree Celsius (°C)	42-52	ASTM D36
Density, 25°C	Kilogram per Cubic Meter (kg/m³)	1.000/1.060	ASTM D71/D3289
Ductility, 25°C	Centimetres per Second (cm/s)	100 min	ASTM D113
Loss On Heating	Weight Percentage (WT%)	0.5 Max	ASTM D6
Drop-in Penetration After Heating	Percentage (%)	20 max	ASTM D6/D5
Flash Point (Cleveland Open Cup)	Degree Celsius (°C)	225 min	ASTM D92
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	Weight Percentage (WT%)	99 min	ASTM D4
Loss of Weight	Percentage (%)	0.8 max	ASTM D1754
Retained Penetration After Thin Film	Percentage (%)	50 min	ASTM D5
Ductility 25°C After Thin Film Oven	Centimetres per Second (cm/s)	100 min	ASTM D113
Ductility 15°C After Thin Film Oven	Centimetres per Second (cm/s)	100 min	ASTM D113
Temperature	Degree Celsius (°C)	Max 90-110 above the Soft
Bitumen Content	Percentage (%)	99.9 min	ASTM D4

Asphalt Cement Bitumen (AC Bitumen)

AC grade, or asphalt cement bitumen, is a viscosity-based grade of bitumen, defined by the American Association of State Highway Officials (AASHTO).

AC bitumen is categorized based on its average dynamic viscosity at 60 °C, divided by 100. For example, AC10 bitumen has a viscosity range of 800-1200 Poise.

They are demanded in some markets like Sudan, Ghana, Cameroon, Djibouti, South Africa, Guinea, and Zimbabwe. Its main specifications are: penetration at 25°C, viscosity at two temperatures of 60°C and 135°C.

See the detailed specification of AC bitumen in the below table:

Bitumen AC10 Specification
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Value
Viscosity, @ 60 ^◦C	ASTM D2171	Poise (10*Pa.s)	1000±200
Viscosity, @ 135 ^◦C	ASTM D2170	CST	Min 150
Flash Point (Cleveland Open Cup)	ASTM D92	^◦C	Min 219
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	ASTM D2042	%WT	Min 99
Penetration, 100g, 5s, @ 25 ^◦C	ASTM D5	0.1mm	Min 70
Thin-Film Oven Test (TFOT)
Viscosity, @ 60 ^◦C	ASTM D2171	Poise (10*Pa.s)	Max 5000
Ductility, 5 cm/min, @ 25 ^◦C	ASTM D113	cm	Min 50

Bitumen AC20 Specification
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Value
Viscosity, @ 60 ^◦C	ASTM D2171	Poise (10*Pa.s)	2000±400
Viscosity, @ 135 ^◦C	ASTM D2170	CST	Min 210
Flash Point (Cleveland Open Cup)	ASTM D92	^◦C	Min 232
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	ASTM D2042	%WT	Min 99
Penetration, 100g, 5s, @ 25 ^◦C	ASTM D5	0.1mm	Min 40
Thin-Film Oven Test (TFOT)
Viscosity, @ 60 ^◦C	ASTM D2171	Poise (10*Pa.s)	Max 10000
Ductility, 5 cm/min, @ 25 ^◦C	ASTM D113	cm	Min 20

Bitumen AC30 Specification
Specification	Test Method	Unit	Value
Viscosity, @ 60 ^◦C	ASTM D2171	Poise (10*Pa.s)	3000±600
Viscosity, @ 135 ^◦C	ASTM D2170	CST	Min 250
Flash Point (Cleveland Open Cup)	ASTM D92	^◦C	Min 232
Solubility in Trichloroethylene	ASTM D2042	%WT	Min 99
Penetration, 100g, 5s, @ 25 ^◦C	ASTM D5	0.1mm	Min 30
Thin-Film Oven Test (TFOT)
Viscosity, @ 60 ^◦C	ASTM D2171	Poise (10*Pa.s)	Max 15000
Ductility, 5 cm/min, @ 25 ^◦C	ASTM D113	cm	Min 15

Visit AC grade bitumen, if you need more information about its grades and price.

Oxidized Bitumen

Oxidized or blown bitumen is a bitumen type produced by blowing air into the pure bitumen.This process is done at high temperatures to modify its physical properties for specific uses.

The process of blowing air causes oxidation and polymerization, resulting in larger molecular weight molecules that form a harder and less temperature-sensitive product.

As the asphaltene percentage increases, oxidized bitumen has a lower penetration value and a greater softening point than pure bitumen.

The grading method for blown bitumen is based on penetration and softening points. Their grades and specifications are as below:

Oxidized Bitumen 75/25 Specifications
Characteristics	Test Method	Unit	Result
Specific Gravity at 25°C	ASTM D70	–	1.01-1.06
Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	10/30
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	65/85
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	0.2 max
Flash point	ASTM D92	°C	250 min
Solubility in CS₂	ASTM D2042	wt.%	80% min
Ductility at 25°C	ASTM D113	cm	1.5 min

Oxidized Bitumen 75/30 Specifications
Characteristics	Test Method	Unit	Result
Specific Gravity at 25°C	ASTM D70	–	1.01-1.06
Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	20/40
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	60/80
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	0.2 max
Flash point	ASTM D92	°C	260 min
Solubility in CS₂	ASTM D2042	wt.%	80% min
Ductility at 25°C	ASTM D113	cm	1.5 min

Oxidized Bitumen 85/25 Specifications
Characteristics	Test Method	Unit	Result
Specific Gravity at 25°C	ASTM D70	–	1.01-1.06
Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	10/30
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	70/90
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	0.2 max
Flash point	ASTM D92	°C	250 min
Solubility in CS₂	ASTM D2042	wt.%	80% min
Ductility at 25°C	ASTM D113	cm	3 min

Oxidized Bitumen 85/40 Specifications
Characteristics	Test Method	Unit	Result
Specific Gravity at 25°C	ASTM D70	–	1.01-1.06
Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	25/45
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	70/90
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	0.2 max
Flash point	ASTM D92	°C	260 min
Solubility in CS₂	ASTM D2042	wt.%	80% min
Ductility at 25°C	ASTM D113	cm	3 min

Oxidized Bitumen 90/10 Specifications
Characteristics	Test Method	Unit	Result
Specific Gravity at 25°C	ASTM D70	–	1.01-1.06
Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	5/25
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	75/95
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	0.2 max
Flash point	ASTM D92	°C	250 min
Solubility in CS₂	ASTM D2042	wt.%	80% min
Ductility at 25°C	ASTM D113	cm	1.5 min

Oxidized Bitumen 90/15 Specifications
Characteristics	Test Method	Unit	Result
Specific Gravity at 25°C	ASTM D70	–	1.01-1.06
Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	5/25
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	75/95
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	0.2 max
Flash point	ASTM D92	°C	250 min
Solubility in CS₂	ASTM D2042	wt.%	80% min
Ductility at 25°C	ASTM D113	cm	3 min

Oxidized Bitumen 90/25 Specifications
Characteristics	Test Method	Unit	Result
Specific Gravity at 25°C	ASTM D70	–	1.01-1.06
Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	10/30
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	80/100
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	0.2 max
Flash point	ASTM D92	°C	250 min
Solubility in CS₂	ASTM D2042	wt.%	80% min
Ductility at 25°C	ASTM D113	cm	1.5 min

Oxidized Bitumen 90/40 Specifications
Characteristics	Test Method	Unit	Result
Specific Gravity at 25°C	ASTM D70	–	1.01-1.06
Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	25/45
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	75/95
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	0.2 max
Flash point	ASTM D92	°C	250 min
Solubility in CS₂	ASTM D2042	wt.%	80% min
Ductility at 25°C	ASTM D113	cm	5.5 min

Oxidized Bitumen 95/25 Specifications
Characteristics	Test Method	Unit	Result
Specific Gravity at 25°C	ASTM D70	–	1.01-1.06
Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	10/30
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	80/100
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	0.2 max
Flash point	ASTM D92	°C	250 min
Solubility in CS₂	ASTM D2042	wt.%	80% min
Ductility at 25°C	ASTM D113	cm	1.5 min

Oxidized Bitumen 115/15 Specifications
Characteristics	Test Method	Unit	Result
Specific Gravity at 25°C	ASTM D70	–	1.01-1.06
Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	5/25
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	100/120
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	0.2 max
Flash point	ASTM D92	°C	250 min
Solubility in CS₂	ASTM D2042	wt.%	80% min
Ductility at 25°C	ASTM D113	cm	1.5 min

Oxidized Bitumen 125/5 Specifications
Characteristics	Test Method	Unit	Result
Specific Gravity at 25°C	ASTM D70	–	1.01-1.06
Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	5/25
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	120/140
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	0.2 max
Flash point	ASTM D92	°C	250 min
Solubility in CS₂	ASTM D2042	wt.%	80% min
Ductility at 25°C	ASTM D113	cm	1.5 min

Oxidized Bitumen 135/5 Specifications
Characteristics	Test Method	Unit	Result
Specific Gravity at 25°C	ASTM D70	–	1.01-1.06
Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	5/25
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	130/150
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	0.2 max
Flash point	ASTM D92	°C	260 min
Solubility in CS₂	ASTM D2042	wt.%	80% min
Ductility at 25°C	ASTM D113	cm	1.5 min

Oxidized Bitumen 105/15 Specifications
Characteristics	Test Method	Unit	Result
Specific Gravity at 25°C	ASTM D70	–	1.01-1.06
Penetration at 25°C, 100g, 5s	ASTM D5	0.1mm	5/20
Softening Point	ASTM D36	°C	90/130
Loss on Heating	ASTM D6	wt.%	0.2 max
Ductility at 25°C	ASTM D113	cm	1.5 min
Flash point	ASTM D92	°C	210 min
Solubility in CS₂	ASTM D2042	wt.%	80% min

Read a detailed review on Oxidized Bitumen (Blown Bitumen), including its grade, packing, uses, etc.

Cutback Bitumen

Cutback is a type of liquid bitumen that is produced by blending penetration grade bitumen with a petroleum solvent such as gasoline, kerosene, and diesel. The percentage of solvent is varied from 20 to 45%.The main uses of them are in producing cold mix asphalt and sealing applications.

Curing time is defined as the speed of solvent evaporation and remaining bitumen. Cutback bitumen has different curing times, as follows:

Slow Curing (SC): Produced using heavy petroleum solvents, such as diesel or mazut
Medium Curing (MC): Produced using semi-heavy petroleum solvents, such as kerosene
Rapid Curing (RC): Produced using light petroleum solvents, such as gasoline

Cutback bitumen is classified based on curing time and viscosity. You can compare their specifications in the below tables:

Cutback Bitumen Medium-Curing-30 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic Viscosity at 60 °C ,cSt	30	60	ASTM D2170
Flash Point (Top Open Cup), °C	38	–	ASTM D3143
Distillate, %Volume of Total Distillate to @360 °C
To 225 °C	–	35	ASTM D402
To 260 °C	40	70
To 316 °C	75	93
Residue From Distillation to 360 °C (% Vol by Difference)	50	–
Test on Residue From Distillation Test
Penetration, 25 °C, (dmm)	120	300	ASTM D5
Ductility, 25 °C, (cm)	100	–	ASTM D113
Water Content (% Vol)	–	0.2	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Medium-Curing-70 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic Viscosity at 60 °C , mm²/s	70	140	ASTM D2170
Flash Point (Tag Open Cup), °C	38	–	ASTM D3143
Distillate, %Volume of Total Distillate to @360 °C
To 225 °C	–	25	ASTM D402
To 260 °C	10	70	ASTM D402
To 316 °C	75	93	ASTM D402
Residue From Distillation to 360 °C (% Vol by Difference)	55	–	ASTM D402
Test On Residue from Distillation:
Penetration, 25 °C, (dmm)	120	300	ASTM D5
Ductility, 25 °C, (cm)	100	–	ASTM D113
Solubility in Trichloroethylene, %	99	–	ASTM D2042
Water , %	–	0.2	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Medium-Curing-250 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic viscosity at 60°c ,cST	250	500	ASTM D2170
Flash point(tag open cup), °C	66	–	ASTM D3143
Distillation test Distillate, volume per cent of total Distillate to 680°F (360°C)
Residue from distillation to 437°F (225°C)	–	20	ASTM D402
to 500°F (260°C)	5	55
to 600°F (316°C)	60	90
to 680°F (360°C), per cent volume by difference	67	–
Test on residue from distillation test
Viscosity at 140°F (60°C)	30	120	ASTM D2170
Penetration 77°F (25°C) 100g, 5s mm	120	300	ASTM D5
Ductility 77°F (25°C) 5cm/min cm	100	–	ASTM D113
Solubility in trichloroethylene %	99	–	ASTM D2042
Water, percent volume	–	0.2	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Medium-Curing-800 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic viscosity at 60°c ,cST	800	1600	ASTM D2170
Flash point(tag open cup), °C	66	–	ASTM D3143
Distillation test Distillate, volume per cent of total Distillate to 680°F (360°C)
Residue from distillation to 437°F (225°C)	–	–	ASTM D402
to 500°F (260°C)	–	40
to 600°F (316°C)	45	90
to 680°F (360°C), per cent volume by difference	75	–
Test on residue from distillation test
Viscosity at 140°F (60°C)	30	120	ASTM D2170
Penetration 77°F (25°C) 100g, 5s mm	120	250	ASTM D5
Ductility 77°F (25°C) 5cm/min cm	100	–	ASTM D113
Solubility in trichloroethylene %	99	–	ASTM D2042
Water, percent volume	–	0.2	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Medium-Curing-3000 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic Viscosity at 60 °C , mm²/s	3000	6000	ASTM D2170
Flash Point (Tag Open Cup), °C	66	–	ASTM D3143
Distillate, %Volume of Total Distillate to @360 °C
To 225 °C	–	–	ASTM D402
To 260 °C	–	15	ASTM D402
To 316 °C	15	75	ASTM D402
Residue From Distillation to 360 °C (% Vol by Difference)	80	0	ASTM D402
Test On Residue from Distillation:
Viscosity at 60 °C	30	120	ASTM D2170
Penetration, 25 °C, (dmm)	120	250	ASTM D5
Ductility, 25 °C, (cm)	100	–	ASTM D113
Solubility in Trichloroethylene, %	99	–	ASTM D2042
Water , %	–	0.2	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Rapid-Curing-30 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic viscosity at 60°c ,cST	30	60	ASTM D2170
Flash point(tag open cup), °C	–	–	ASTM D3143
Distillation test Distillate, volume per cent of total Distillate to 680°F (360°C)
Residue from distillation to 437°F (225°C)	55	–	ASTM D402
to 500°F (260°C)	75	–
to 600°F (316°C)	90	–
to 680°F (360°C), per cent volume by difference	50	–
Test on residue from distillation test
Penetration 77°F (25°C) 100g, 5s mm	80	120	ASTM D5
Ductility 77°F (25°C) 5cm/min cm	100	–	ASTM D113
Solubility in trichloroethylene %	99	–	ASTM D2042
Water, percent volume	–	0.2	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Rapid-Curing-70 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic viscosity at 60°c ,cST	70	140	ASTM D2170
Flash point(tag open cup), °C	–	–	ASTM D3143
Distillation test Distillate, volume per cent of total Distillate to 680°F (360°C)
Residue from distillation to 437°F (225°C)	50	–	ASTM D402
to 500°F (260°C)	70	–
to 600°F (316°C)	85	–
to 680°F (360°C), per cent volume by difference	55	–
Test on residue from distillation test
Penetration 77°F (25°C) 100g, 5s mm	80	120	ASTM D5
Ductility 77°F (25°C) 5cm/min cm	100	–	ASTM D113
Solubility in trichloroethylene %	99	–	ASTM D2042
Water, percent volume	–	0.2	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Rapid-Curing-250 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic viscosity at 60°c ,cST	250	500	ASTM D2170
Flash point(tag open cup), °C	–	–	ASTM D3143
Distillation test Distillate, volume per cent of total Distillate to 680°F (360°C)
Residue from distillation to 437°F (225°C)	35	–	ASTM D402
to 500°F (260°C)	60	–
to 600°F (316°C)	80	–
to 680°F (360°C), per cent volume by difference	65	–
Test on residue from distillation test
Penetration 77°F (25°C) 100g, 5s mm	80	120	ASTM D5
Ductility 77°F (25°C) 5cm/min cm	100	–	ASTM D113
Solubility in trichloroethylene %	99	–	ASTM D2042
Water, percent volume	–	0.2	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Rapid-Curing-800 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic viscosity at 60°c ,cST	800	1600	ASTM D2170
Flash point(tag open cup), °C	–	–	ASTM D3143
Distillation test Distillate, volume per cent of total Distillate to 680°F (360°C)
Residue from distillation to 437°F (225°C)	15	–	ASTM D402
to 500°F (260°C)	45	–
to 600°F (316°C)	75	–
to 680°F (360°C), per cent volume by difference	75	–
Test on residue from distillation test
Penetration 77°F (25°C) 100g, 5s mm	80	120	ASTM D5
Ductility 77°F (25°C) 5cm/min cm	100	–	ASTM D113
Solubility in trichloroethylene %	99	–	ASTM D2042
Water, percent volume	–	0.2	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Rapid-Curing-3000 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic viscosity at 60°c ,cST	3000	6000	ASTM D2170
Flash point(tag open cup), °C	–	–	ASTM D3143
Distillation test Distillate, volume per cent of total Distillate to 680°F (360°C)
Residue from distillation to 437°F (225°C)	–	–	ASTM D402
to 500°F (260°C)	25	–
to 600°F (316°C)	70	–
to 680°F (360°C), per cent volume by difference	80	–
Test on residue from distillation test
Penetration 77°F (25°C) 100g, 5s mm	80	120	ASTM D5
Ductility 77°F (25°C) 5cm/min cm	100	–	ASTM D113
Solubility in trichloroethylene %	99	–	ASTM D2042
Water, percent volume	–	0.2	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Slow-Curing-30 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic viscosity at 60°c ,cST	30	60	ASTM D2170
Flash point(tag open cup), °C	65	–	ASTM D3143
Distillation test Distillate, volume per cent of total Distillate to 680°F (360°C)
To 190 °C	–	–	ASTM D402
To 225 °C	–	–
To 260 °C	–	–
To 316 °C	10	30
Residue from Distillation to 60 °C
Penetration 77°F (25°C) 100g, 5s mm	50	–	ASTM D5
Ductility 77°F (25°C) 5cm/min cm	100	–	ASTM D113
Solubility in trichloroethylene %	100	–	ASTM D2042
Water, percent volume	–	0.2	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Slow-Curing-70 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic viscosity at 60°c ,cST	70	140	ASTM D2170
Flash point(tag open cup), °C	60	–	ASTM D3143
Distillate Test
Total distillate to 360 °C (680 °F), volume %	–	35	ASTM D402
Solubility in trichloroethylene %	95	–
Kinematic viscosity on distillation residue at 60 °C (140 °F) mm²/s	200	7000
Asphalt Residue
Residue of 100 penetration, %	40	–	ASTM D5
Ductility 77°F (25°C) 5cm/min cm	50	–	ASTM D113
Water, percent volume	–	0.5	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Slow-Curing-250 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic viscosity at 60°c ,cST	250	500	ASTM D2170
Flash point(tag open cup), °C	60	–	ASTM D3143
Distillate Test
Total distillate to 360 °C (680 °F), volume %	–	25	ASTM D402
Solubility in trichloroethylene %	95	–
Kinematic viscosity on distillation residue at 60 °C (140 °F) mm²/s	400	10000
Asphalt Residue
Residue of 100 penetration, %	50	–	ASTM D5
Ductility 77°F (25°C) 5cm/min cm	50	–	ASTM D113
Water, percent volume	–	0.5	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Slow-Curing-800 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic viscosity at 60°c ,cST	800	1600	ASTM D2170
Flash point(tag open cup), °C	70	–	ASTM D3143
Distillate Test
Total distillate to 360 °C (680 °F), volume %	–	15	ASTM D402
Solubility in trichloroethylene %	95	–
Kinematic viscosity on distillation residue at 60 °C (140 °F) mm²/s	1000	16000
Asphalt Residue
Residue of 100 penetration, %	60	–	ASTM D5
Ductility 77°F (25°C) 5cm/min cm	50	–	ASTM D113
Water, percent volume	–	0.5	ASTM D95

Cutback Bitumen Slow-Curing-3000 Specifications
Properties	Specification Limit		Test Method
Properties	Min	Max	Test Method
Kinematic viscosity at 60°c ,cST	3000	6000	ASTM D2170
Flash point(tag open cup), °C	70	–	ASTM D3143
Distillate Test
Total distillate to 360 °C (680 °F), volume %	–	8	ASTM D402
Solubility in trichloroethylene %	95	–
Kinematic viscosity on distillation residue at 60 °C (140 °F) mm²/s	2000	35000
Asphalt Residue
Residue of 100 penetration, %	75	–	ASTM D5
Ductility 77°F (25°C) 5cm/min cm	50	–	ASTM D113
Water, percent volume	–	0.5	ASTM D95

What is Cutback Bitumen? Click to read everything you need to know about cutback bitumen.

All petroleum solvents in cutback bitumen will eventually evaporate, which is serious damage to the environment. To avoid this problem, emulsion bitumen came into the industry.

Emulsion Bitumen

Bitumen emulsions are a new way for liquifying bitumen by dispersing it in water. In this bitumen type, very fine particles of bitumen are suspended in water, which are stable by using an emulsifier.

The amount of bitumen in the emulsion varies from 55 to 65%. Two key factors determine the grades of emulsion bitumen:

1- Particles’ electrostatic charge of the emulsifier:

Cationic: Bitumen particles have a positive electrical charge.
Anionic : Bitumen particles have a negative electrical charge.

Cationic bitumen emulsion has more applications than anionic. This is due to its superior adhesion to stone materials such as silica and quartz compounds, which have a negative electric charge. This makes them a better choice in road construction, building, and sealing projects.

2- Breaking or setting time: the time that is required for water to evaporate

Slow setting (SS)
Medium setting (MS)
Rapid setting (RS)

Setting time can take from as little as 10 minutes to several hours depending on ambient temperature, humidity, aggregate water absorption, wind speed, etc.

Bitumen emulsion is more eco-friendly than cutback bitumen due to the use of water instead of petroleum solvent.

Generally, liquid bitumen doesn’t need heating because of their low viscosity. That’s a significant advantage, since their operation is easier and requires less energy.

Are you interested in reading more about the difference between cutback and emulsion? (11 Differences + Video)

Gilsonite

Gilsonite, or natural bitumen, is a solid hydrocarbon with very high purity, extracted from mines. It is rich in asphaltenes and nitrogen compounds, containing little sulfur or ash. Gilsonite is shiny and black. It breaks easily.

Its specific compatibility allows it to be used for hardening softer petroleum compounds.

Gilsonite can be used as an additive to hot mix asphalt, which improves asphalt performance such as stiffness, flexibility, and resistance to moisture damage.

Natural bitumen is usually used as a powder, which comes in different ash contents, particle sizes, and solubility levels in organic solvents.

Based on the amount of ash content, there are four different types of micronized gilsonite powder:

5% ash content
10% ash content
15% ash content
20% ash content

Gilsonite asphalt is also found in different mesh sizes, which show the different particle sizes of the powder. Most gilsonite is available in mesh sizes ranging from 30 to 200 mesh (595 to 74 microns). The particle size gets bigger as the mesh number goes down, and the opposite is also true.

One of gilsonite’s key properties is its solubility level in organic solvents, measured in carbon disulfide (CS₂). The higher solubility makes it valuable for various industrial applications, including in the production of paints, coatings, and asphalt modifiers.

Check out the specifications of gilsonite used in various applications below:

Specifications of Gilsonite in Different Applications
Specifications	Test Method	Drilling	Asphalt & Road	Isolation	Paint & Ink	Foundry
Ash Content, WT%	ASTM D3174	7-13	10-15	10-20	7-10	10
Mesh Size	ASTM D546	200	100-200	100	200	100-200
Moisture Contentment, WT%	ASTM D3173	1-3	1-3	1-3	1-3	1-3
Volatile Matter, WT%	ASTM D3175	65-85	65-85	65-85	65-85	65-85
Solubility in CS₂,WT%	ASTM D4	75-85	70-80	70-80	80-90	75-85
Specific Gravity, at 25 °C	ASTM D3289	1.05	1.05	1.05	1.05	1.05
Color	–	Black	Black	Black	Black	Black
Softening Point	ASTM D36	180-220	180-220	180-220	180-220	180-220

If you would like to know more about Gilsonite, click here.

Infinity Galaxy team is ready to guide you through your bitumen needs. Leave a comment or reach out via WhatsApp for expert guidance or to place an order.

FAQ

Liquid bitumen, including cutback and emulsion, don’t need heating before use. Because they are liquefied by petroleum solvent and water, respectively.

Bitumen comes in a variety of types and grades. Generally, the main types of bitumen are: penetration grade, viscosity grade (VG) bitumen, performance grade (PG), oxidized (blown), cutback, emulsion, and gilsonite. However, there are some other grading systems, such as AH bitumen, AC bitumen, and Australian grades.