What is VG10 Bitumen?
VG10 bitumen, or Viscosity Grade 10 bitumen, is a specific type of asphalt binder designed for use in cold climates. It is a petroleum-based product derived from crude oil and refined to achieve a low viscosity, making it suitable for construction and maintenance of roads in regions with consistently low temperatures. The “VG” designation indicates that its properties are classified based on its viscosity, which is a measure of its resistance to flow.
| S.No | Test Items | Unit | Specifications |
| 1 | Absolute Viscosity @ 60 °C | Poise | 800 poise min |
| 2 | Penetration @ 25 °C | 0.1 mm | 80-100 |
| 3 | Softening Point | °C | 45-52 |
| 4 | Ductility @ 27 °C | cm | 100 min |
| 5 | Kinematic 135°C | CST | 250 CST max |
| 6 | Solubility | % WT | 99.5 % min |
Applications
VG10 bitumen is primarily used in road construction and maintenance projects in cold climates, including:
- Roads in Cold Regions: It is ideal for constructing and maintaining roads in regions with consistently low temperatures, such as mountainous areas, northern latitudes, and high-altitude regions.
- Airports in Cold Climates: VG10 bitumen can be used in the construction and maintenance of airport runways and taxiways in cold climates to ensure safe and reliable operations.
- Cold Weather Construction: It is particularly suitable for road construction projects that must be undertaken during cold weather conditions.
Benefits of Using VG10 Bitumen
- Enhanced Performance in Cold Climates: VG10 bitumen’s low viscosity and high flexibility ensure optimal performance in cold weather conditions, minimizing the risk of cracking and ensuring a durable pavement structure.
- Improved Ride Quality: The use of VG10 bitumen in cold climates results in smoother and more comfortable road surfaces, even during periods of extreme cold.
- Increased Safety: The reduced risk of cracking and improved pavement stability provided by VG10 bitumen enhance road safety in cold climates.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial cost of VG10 bitumen may be slightly higher than higher-grade bitumens, its superior performance and reduced maintenance requirements in cold climates make it a cost-effective long-term solution.