A Versatile Binder for Durable Road Construction
A physical/chemical modification approach is used to change the chemistry and balance of the bituminous components to a desired optimum, resulting in SLV-Bitumen VG-40, a specially made bitumen. They are designed to withstand thermal shrinkage cracking at lower temperatures as well as pavement rutting at higher temperatures. Furthermore, at typical working temperatures, SLV-Bitumen VG-40 is more resilient to fatigue. The distinctive benefits of softer grades at low temperatures and harsher grades at high temperatures are combined in SLV-Bitumen VG-40.
In order to create cohesive asphalt mixes appropriate for all kinds of traffic, SLV-Bitumen VG-40 can be utilised in a variety of asphalt mix designs and processes. SLV-Bitumen VG-40 improves long-term durability and stabilises the asphalt mix at any temperature.
What is VG40 Bitumen?
VG40 bitumen, or Viscosity Grade 40 bitumen, is a type of asphalt binder commonly used in road construction and maintenance. It is a petroleum-based product derived from crude oil and refined to achieve specific viscosity characteristics. The “VG” designation indicates that its properties are classified based on its viscosity, which is a measure of its resistance to flow.
Specifications:
| S. No. | Test | Method | Unit |
| 1 | Viscosity @ 60 °C | ASTM 2171 ISIRI 2851 | P |
| 2 | Viscosity @ 135 °C | ASTM 2170 ISRI 2855 | CST |
| 3 | Penetration @ 25 °C | ASTM D5 ISIRI 2950 | 0.1 mm |
| 4 | Softening Point | ASTM D36 INSO3868 | °C |
| 5 | Flash Point | ASTM D92 INSO 198 | °C |
| 6 | Ductility @ 25 °C | ASTM D113 INSO 3866 | Cm |
| 7 | Specific Gravity @ 25 °C | ASTM D70 INSO 3872 | °C |
| 8 | Solubility in TCE | ASTM D2042 INSO 2253 | % |
| 9 | Spot Test | AASHTO T102 | – |
| 10 | Pen Index | – | – |
Applications
VG40 bitumen finds widespread application in various road construction projects, including:
- Highways and Major Roads: Its high viscosity and resistance to deformation make it an ideal choice for high-traffic roads and highways, where heavy vehicles and extreme weather conditions are prevalent.
- Airport Runways: The ability of VG40 bitumen to withstand high temperatures and heavy aircraft loads makes it suitable for constructing durable and long-lasting airport runways.
- Industrial Areas: In areas with heavy industrial traffic and high ambient temperatures, VG40 bitumen provides superior performance and longevity.
- Overlay and Resurfacing: VG40 bitumen can be used for overlaying existing pavements to improve their ride quality, extend their service life, and enhance their load-bearing capacity.
Benefits of Using VG40 Bitumen
- Enhanced Durability: The high viscosity and resistance to deformation of VG40 bitumen contribute to the long-term durability of the pavement, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and repairs.
- Improved Ride Quality: The use of VG40 bitumen in road construction results in smoother and more comfortable road surfaces for drivers.
- Increased Safety: The enhanced stability and resistance to rutting provided by VG40 bitumen improve road safety by reducing the risk of accidents caused by uneven pavement surfaces.
- Cost-Effectiveness: While the initial cost of VG40 bitumen may be slightly higher than lower-grade bitumens, its long-term performance and reduced maintenance requirements make it a cost-effective choice for road construction projects.