Viscosity Bitumen Grades

Viscosity Grade Bitumen is specified by ASTM Standard D3381-09 and AASHTO M226-80 (2008). VG Bitumen Specifications cover by Viscosity at 60 ̊C (140 °F).

Two methods of Grading:

• Standard Viscosity Grade Bitumen (AC-Grades), in which the Viscosity of the standard bitumen (asphalt) measured at 60 ºC (140 ºF).

• RTFOT Viscosity Grade Bitumen (AR-Grades), in which the Viscosity of bitumen (asphalt) measured at 60 °C (140 °F) after the roll on thin film oven test.

Viscosity Grade Bitumen Uses

VG-10 mostly used in spraying applications such as surface dressing and Paving in very cold climate instead of 80/100 Penetration Bitumen Grade. It is also used to produce Bitumen Emulsion and Modified Bitumen products.

VG-20 used for paving in Cold Climate & High altitude regions.

VG-30 especially used to construct Extra Heavy Duty Bitumen Pavements that need to tolerate significant traffic loads. It can be used instead of 60/70 Penetration Bitumen grade.

VG-40 used in highly stressed areas such as intersections, near toll booths and truck parking lots instead of 30/40 Penetration Grade. Because of higher viscosity, stiffer Bitumen mixes can be produced to amend resistance to shoving and other problems related to higher temperature and heavy traffic loads.