Difference Between Asphalt and Bitumen

When it comes to road construction and industrial applications, the terms “asphalt” and “bitumen” often pop up, leading to confusion. Are they the same? What sets them apart? At CarboKim, a leading supplier of high-quality bituminous products, we’re here to clarify the distinction between asphalt and bitumen, while spotlighting key grades like Bitumen 60/70, Bitumen 80/100, Bitumen 50/70, Bitumen 70/100, Bitumen 115/15, Gilsonite, MC30, and SS1.

Bitumen is a viscous, black, and sticky hydrocarbon derived from crude oil refining or found in natural deposits. It acts as a binding agent, prized for its waterproofing and adhesive properties. At CarboKim, we supply various bitumen grades tailored to specific needs, such as Bitumen 60/70 and Bitumen 80/100, which are widely used in road paving. Bitumen 60/70, with a penetration range of 60-70, offers durability in moderate climates, while Bitumen 80/100, softer with a 80-100 penetration range, suits warmer regions. Other grades like Bitumen 50/70 and Bitumen 70/100 provide nuanced stiffness for diverse conditions, and Bitumen 115/15, with its high softening point, excels in roofing and industrial uses.

 

Specialized products like Gilsonite, a natural asphaltite, enhance bitumen mixes for superior pavement strength. Liquid bitumens such as MC30, a medium-curing cutback, and SS1, a slow-setting emulsion, are perfect for priming and tack coats, ensuring strong adhesion in construction.

Asphalt, often called asphalt concrete, is a composite material made by blending bitumen with aggregates like sand, gravel, or crushed stone. It’s the final product you see on roads and driveways. While bitumen is the glue, asphalt is the finished mix. In some regions, “asphalt” refers to the binder itself (akin to bitumen), but technically, it’s the combination used for paving.

1. Composition: Bitumen is a standalone hydrocarbon, while asphalt integrates bitumen with aggregates.

2. Application: Bitumen serves as a raw material for asphalt production, roofing, and waterproofing. Asphalt is the end product for surfacing roads.

3. Terminology: Bitumen is the technical term for the binder, whereas asphalt often denotes the paved outcome, especially in the U.S.

Choosing the right material is critical. Bitumen 60/70 and Bitumen 80/100 are go-to choices for asphalt mixes due to their versatility. Bitumen 50/70 offers harder consistency for heavy traffic, while Bitumen 70/100 balances flexibility. For specialized needs, Bitumen 115/15 and Gilsonite boost durability, while MC30 and SS1 ensure proper layering in roadwork.

At CarboKim, we provide premium bitumen grades—Bitumen 60/70, 80/100, 50/70, 70/100, 115/15, Gilsonite, MC30, and SS1—to meet your construction demands. Whether you’re paving highways or sealing roofs, our products deliver quality and performance. Contact us today to explore how our bitumen solutions can elevate your next project!