What is different between Bitumen and Oxidized Bitumen?

Bitumen, also known as asphalt or asphaltum, is a sticky, black, and highly viscous form of petroleum. It is a naturally occurring substance that is commonly used in road construction, waterproofing, and various industrial applications. Bitumen is produced through the distillation of crude oil or the extraction of natural deposits.

Oxidized bitumen, on the other hand, is a modified form of bitumen obtained by subjecting it to a controlled air-blowing process. During the oxidation process, air is blown through the bitumen at elevated temperatures, which causes chemical reactions and introduces oxygen into the molecular structure of the bitumen. This results in the partial oxidation of bitumen and alters its physical and chemical properties.

Here are some key differences between bitumen and oxidized bitumen:

Consistency: Bitumen is naturally thick and highly viscous, while oxidized bitumen has a higher degree of hardness and is less sticky. The oxidation process increases the molecular weight and cross-linking of the bitumen, leading to a more solid consistency.

Softening Point: Bitumen has a specific softening point, which is the temperature at which it becomes soft and pliable. Oxidized bitumen has a higher softening point compared to regular bitumen. This makes it more suitable for applications where higher temperatures or heavier traffic loads are expected.

Durability: Due to its higher molecular weight and increased cross-linking, oxidized bitumen tends to be more durable and resistant to temperature variations, UV radiation, and aging effects. It exhibits improved stability and better resistance to deformation and cracking.

Applications: Bitumen is commonly used in road construction, pavement surfacing, waterproofing, and asphalt production. Oxidized bitumen is typically employed in specialized applications where increased stiffness and resistance to temperature-related deformations are required. It is commonly used in roofing materials, pipe coatings, electrical insulations, and joint fillers.

Availability: Bitumen is readily available as a natural resource and can be obtained from crude oil refining or natural bitumen deposits. Oxidized bitumen is produced through a specific manufacturing process involving controlled air-blowing, which modifies the bitumen. It is typically produced in specialized refineries or manufacturing facilities.

It's important to note that there are different grades and specifications for both bitumen and oxidized bitumen, as they can vary depending on the intended application and regional standards.