Bitumen is a versatile material that possesses waterproofing and adhesive properties. It is derived through the crude oil distillation process, where lighter crude oil materials such as diesel and gasoline are removed, leaving behind the heavier bitumen. This process is often repeated multiple times to achieve the desired quality of the final product.
The composition of bitumen is complex, comprising hydrocarbons and various elements such as calcium, iron, sulfur, and oxygen. The production process for bitumen is tailored to meet the specific end-use specifications, which vary depending on the intended application.
While industrial manufacturing is the most common method of producing bitumen, it can also be found in nature. For instance, natural bitumen can be found at the bottom of ancient lakes where prehistoric organisms have decayed. The heat and pressure that these organisms were subjected to often resulted in the formation of bitumen.
Bitumen Applications
Bitumen is an essential and versatile product in today’s world, playing a critical role in the construction of roads, which connects cities and countries over vast distances.
In roadway construction, bitumen is highly valued for its resistance to weather, waterproofing properties, binding capacity, and ability to provide a flexible surface. This makes it ideal for use in a variety of applications, including highways, airport runways, footways, car parks, race tracks, tennis courts, and roofing.
Total, bitumen is used for damp proofing, lining dams, reservoirs, and pools, soundproofing, pipe coatings, and tile underlying waterproofing. The wide range of applications for bitumen highlights its importance and versatility in the modern world.
Bitumen Test & Certificate
SGS provides comprehensive Bitumen Testing services, including the analysis of commercial bulk cargoes to ASTM, ISO, EN, and similar specifications. Also analyze basic performance characteristics such as penetration numbers, needle penetration, cone penetration, hardness, ductility, melting point, density, and storage monitoring to assess the oxidation state. While we strive to offer as many national and international specifications and tests as possible, we recognize that it is not feasible to provide all services to all stakeholders at every location due to limited volumes.
Bitumen Shipment & Packing
Bitumen can be shipped in bulk quantities via tanker trucks, railcars, or ocean vessels. Tanker trucks are commonly used for local or regional transportation, while railcars and ocean vessels are used for long-distance transportation.
For bulk shipments, bitumen can also be packaged in Drums, Bags, or Bitutainer. These packages are typically used for local transportation or for export to areas where bulk shipments are not feasible or economical.
We offer efficient and reliable sea transportation services for bitumen. Our specialized shipping solutions ensure that this product is delivered safely and on time to our clients across the globe.