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Types of Bitumen

  1. Blown Bitumen:

  • Produced by blowing hot air into pure bitumen during the final stage of refining.

  • This process increases its oxidation, making it more suitable for roofing and industrial applications due to its higher softening point and greater resistance to extreme temperatures.

 2 Mixed or Solution Bitumen:

  • Created by dissolving bitumen in solvents.

  • This makes it easier to apply and useful in cold applications like road construction.

Key Characteristics of Bitumen:

  • Viscoelastic and Waterproof: These properties make bitumen ideal for asphalt pavements, providing durability and resistance to water damage.

  • Composition: Primarily composed of carbon and hydrogen, with small amounts of nitrogen, oxygen, sulphur, and trace metals.

  • Natural vs. Refined: Bitumen can occur naturally (like in lake deposits) or be refined from crude oil.

Bitumen is used extensively in road construction, roofing, and waterproofing due to these properties.

  3.Emulsion Bitumen:

  • Bitumen is emulsified in water with the help of surfactants.

  • This is commonly used for road construction because it allows easier handling and application, especially in colder conditions.

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