Differences between Oxidized Bitumen and Penetration Bitumen Intro
Bitumen is a versatile material that, through different processes, may be applied to a wide variety of uses in construction and industries. It is available as oxidized bitumen and penetration bitumen, both with very different properties and applications according to the manufacturing process and characteristics involved. In this article, we will understand the Differences between Oxidized Bitumen and Penetration Bitumen.
Manufacturing Process and Composition
Oxidized bitumen and penetration bitumen have totally different manufacturing processes, and these processes have a great influence on their properties and uses.
Oxidized bitumen is another name for blown bitumen, which is produced through the process of air blowing. In this process, at high temperatures that lie in the range of 240°C to 270°C, air is blown through the hot liquid bitumen in specially designed reactors. The process results in a chemical reaction called oxidation, whereby changes in structure occur in the bitumen molecules, turning the product into one with high viscosity and stiffness. The oxidation also raises the softening point of the bitumen, making it less susceptible to deformation at high temperatures. The resulting product is harder and less elastic, which is ideal for applications that require rigidity and durability.
On the other hand, penetration bitumen is produced through the distillation of crude oil to remove the lighter fractions like gas, petrol, and diesel. What remains is residual bitumen, which, depending on its depth of penetration in a standard needle pressed through the material under standard conditions, falls into a class. It is actually an indication of the degree of softness or hardness that higher penetrations exhibit in a softer bitumen. It does not undergo an air-blowing process unlike oxidized bitumen and retains flexibility and adhesive properties for a natural bitumen-saturated covering.
The composition of oxidized bitumen has a higher proportion of asphaltenes, giving it rigidity and thermal stability, while penetration bitumen has a balanced mix of lighter and heavier fractions, making it more pliable and versatile under variable temperature conditions.
Physical Properties
Oxidized bitumen has a higher softening point and lower penetration value compared to penetration bitumen. Its harder consistency and resistance to temperature variations make it better suited for environments where durability and stability are required. Additionally, oxidized bitumen exhibits a less elastic and more brittle nature, which can be an advantage in certain applications but a limitation in others.
On the other hand, penetration bitumen is softer and more flexible. The performance of this material in various temperature ranges depends on its penetration grade. Higher elasticity and lower viscosity of the material provide better flow and adherence; hence, it is more effective in road construction.
Applications
The peculiarities of oxidized bitumen and penetration bitumen determine their application fields in construction, industry, and infrastructure.
Oxidized bitumen is mainly used in industrial applications where stability, hardness, and resistance to temperature variations are crucial. The high softening point and stiffness of this product make it suitable for waterproofing membranes, roofing felt production, and insulation. Besides that, oxidized bitumen is widely used in pipe coatings against corrosion and in industrial adhesives and sealants. These applications take advantage of the material’s ability for maintaining form at high temperatures and resisting environmental factors like UV rays and oxidation.
On the other hand, penetration bitumen finds wide application in road construction and the production of asphalt pavement. Its softer and more flexible nature allows it to mix well with aggregates to provide the bonding strength necessary in road surfaces. It performs well under varying traffic loads and temperature fluctuations, ensuring resistance to cracking and deformation. Penetration bitumen is also a key component in manufacturing bitumen emulsions, which are used for surface dressing, patch repair, and other road maintenance activities. Its versatility makes it a preferred choice for projects requiring both elasticity and durability.
Both types of bitumen play essential roles in their respective applications, with oxidized bitumen excelling in long-lasting industrial uses and penetration bitumen being indispensable in the dynamic and high-stress environment of road construction.
Durability and Environmental Resistance
The resistance of oxidized bitumen to aging and the environmental factors like oxidation or UV exposure is higher owing to its reduced susceptibility to softening under heat, thus it is durable for long periods in harsh conditions.
On the other hand, while less resistant to aging, the penetration bitumen performs much better in dynamic and flexible conditions. Because of lesser stiffness, it does not crack under repeated stress, maintaining its integrity.
Difference in packaging
Due to the physical nature and their fields of application, significant differences exist between oxidized and infiltrating bitumen. As a result of the higher hardness and strength of the former, it is normally supplied in solid form in specific formats such as packaged cakes, polyethylene bags or metal drums. This type of packaging is designed to be easy to transport and store and is suitable for industrial uses with small or large volumes. On the other hand, infiltrating bitumen, which has softer and more viscous state, is often transported in liquid or semi-liquid form in metal drums or large tankers. This packaging is designed due to the need to maintain the adhesive properties and facilitate use in road construction and asphalt production projects. The type of packaging for both products is determined depending on their application and according to their storage and transportation requirements.
Conclusion
In other words, oxidized bitumen and penetration bitumen are used for different purposes because of their different properties. Oxidized bitumen is more rigid and resistant to heat, thus finding its applications in industry, while the flexibility and adhesive properties of penetration bitumen make it useful in road construction and dynamic environments. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the appropriate type for specific projects and ensures optimal performance in their respective applications.
