Usage of oxidized bitumen in insulation Description
Oxidized bitumen is one of the key products in insulation, used in almost all construction and industrial projects, thanks to its special characteristics. This article discusses how oxidized bitumen applies to insulation, its characteristics, advantages, and how to work with it.
Why does oxidized bitumen meet the application of being used in insulation?
Oxidized bitumen is one of the best choices for insulation because of its special characteristics. Because of a special production process in which air is blown into ordinary bitumen, it acquires improved physical and chemical properties. Its high resistance to water penetration is one of the most important reasons for its use.
This makes the insulated surface completely resistant to moisture. This material also possesses extremely stable performance against extreme changes in temperature; in very cold or highly hot conditions, it retains its structure without cracking or softening.
The flexibility of oxidized bitumen is another important advantage. It features well in those applications and structures that may have pressure on them or even environmental stresses. Apart from this, oxidized bitumen is highly resistant to different types of chemicals like acids and alkalis, which again is very crucial in industrial environments and locations exposed to these types of elements.
Applications of oxidized bitumen in insulation
1. Roofing insulation
One of the main materials in the building of roof insulation is oxidized bitumen. The material is used particularly in bituminous membranes, which prevent the penetration of water and moisture into the insulation layer of the roof.
2. Base and foundation insulation
The oxidized bitumen material is used in insulating the base and the foundation in underground construction. The material prevents underground water and moisture from reaching the concrete structure.
3. Insulation of tanks and tankers
Oxidised bitumen is also being applied for the internal and external coating for water, fuel and chemical storage tanks. The material will prevent corrosion and leakage of materials.
4. Channels and pipes insulation
Water transmission channels and metal and concrete pipes can be covered with oxidised bitumen because it resists water pressure and humidity.
5. Insulation of bridges and tunnels
In sensitive structures such as bridges and tunnels, oxidized bitumen is used to prevent water penetration and increase durability.
Advantages of using oxidized bitumen in insulation
The advantages of using oxidized bitumen in insulation projects are many. The most prevalent of these is its high durability and longevity: the structures insulated with this material need less maintenance and can resist the damaging environmental factors like humidity, high or low temperature, and pressures.
Implementing oxidized bitumen is also easy and quick, because different surfaces are protected simply by heating and applying it. This installation method reduces installation time and expenses. Economically speaking, oxidized bitumen is one of the cost-effective options in insulation since, in addition to a reasonable price, it decreases future maintenance and repair costs.
Finally, this material is green, because of its recyclability. Where most insulation materials can have considerable negative impacts on the environment, oxidized bitumen can be recycled in a ‘regenerative cycle’ to contribute positively to the significance of the material in modern projects.
How to apply oxidized bitumen for insulation?
1. Preparation of the surface
the required surface should be clean and free from dust/dampness.
2. Bitumen Heating
Oxidized bitumen is normally supplied as a solid and needs to be heated up to the usable temperature.
3. Application of Bitumen:
Application on the surface can be done through resource materials such as trowels or sprays.
4. Additional Layers
Several layers can be required in order to increase the strength.
Challenges and limitations in the use of oxidized bitumen
- Vulnerability to poor installation: If installed badly, it may crack or not work the way it is intended to.
- Heat application requirement: Heating of bitumen in some projects is time-consuming.
- High weight: Lighter structures may need more checks.
Summary
Oxidized bitumen is one of the best choices in several projects owing to its insulation properties. This type of material is a sure shot as it is resistant to water, durable in various environmental conditions, and financially viable. With proper application of oxidized bitumen, it is possible to extend the service life of structures and eliminate additional costs.
FAQs
1. At what temperature is it possible to use oxidized bitumen?
The oxidized bitumen can perform optimally in the range of -10 to +70 degrees Celsius.
2. Can oxidized bitumen be used in wet conditions?
Yes, this is the very material designed not to allow water and moisture to pass through.
3. Is oxidized bitumen environmentally friendly?
Yes, it has hardly any impact on the environment if recycled correctly.
