Technical Description, Properties, and Applications

Oxidized Asphalt 90/10, also known as Blown Bitumen 90/10 or Oxidized Bitumen 90/10, is a very hard, semi-solid industrial grade bitumen produced through the controlled air-blowing (oxidation) of petroleum bitumen. This oxidation process significantly modifies the molecular structure of the base bitumen, resulting in a material with a very high softening point, extremely low penetration, and excellent resistance to heat, deformation, and environmental exposure.

Definition and Material Characteristics

Oxidized Asphalt 90/10 is manufactured by blowing hot air through penetration grade bitumen, typically Bitumen 60/70, under strictly controlled refinery conditions. The oxidation process increases asphaltene concentration and reduces temperature susceptibility, producing a highly stable and rigid bitumen suitable for demanding industrial and construction applications.

The grade designation 90/10 refers to the midpoint values of the product’s principal physical properties:

• Softening Point, measured in degrees Celsius using the Ring and Ball method in accordance with ASTM D36

• Penetration, measured in tenths of a millimeter (0.1 mm) at 25°C according to ASTM D5 or IP49

At ambient temperatures, Oxidized Asphalt 90/10 behaves predominantly as a solid material, while when heated and applied, it provides excellent adhesion, sealing, and waterproofing performance.

Physical and Performance Properties

Oxidized Asphalt 90/10 is characterized by:

• Very high softening point, ensuring outstanding thermal resistance

• Very low penetration, indicating a hard and rigid consistency

• High flash point, improving safety during heating and application

• Excellent stability during repeated heating and cooling cycles

• Strong adhesive and cohesive behavior when applied hot

• Superior resistance to moisture penetration, chemicals, and aging

These properties make this grade particularly suitable for applications where dimensional stability and durability are critical.

Meaning of Grade 90/10

The designation 90/10 indicates:

• A softening point centered around 90°C, reflecting exceptional resistance to flow at high temperatures

• A penetration value around 10 (0.1 mm), indicating a very hard and rigid bitumen

This places Oxidized Asphalt 90/10 among the hardest oxidized bitumen grades, ideal for industrial, waterproofing, and protective applications rather than flexible pavement layers.

Applications of Oxidized Asphalt 90/10

Oxidized Asphalt 90/10 is widely used in a broad range of industrial and construction applications, including:

• Roofing systems and heavy-duty waterproofing

• Bitumen membrane sheets for insulation and isolation

• Pipe coating for corrosion resistance

• Civil engineering and public works structures

• Asphalt-based paints for metal corrosion protection

• Hydraulic structures and Portland cement pavement joints

• Paint, lacquer, and varnish manufacturing

• Adhesives and electrical laminate bonding

• Caulking, mastics, and damp proofing systems

Additionally, this grade is extensively used in the automotive industry for vehicle undercoating, where it provides excellent waterproofing, dustproofing, corrosion resistance, and noise reduction.

Application Guidelines

Oxidized Asphalt 90/10 should be heated to approximately twice its softening point to achieve proper flow and workable viscosity. All application surfaces must be dry, clean, and free from dust, loose particles, curing compounds, slurry, and other contaminants to ensure effective adhesion and performance.

Storage, Handling, and Safety

When stored and handled in accordance with the product MSDS, Oxidized Asphalt 90/10 maintains its quality and performance for up to 10 years, even under multiple heating and cooling cycles. Proper storage conditions and controlled reheating are essential to preserve material integrity and safety.

Packaging and Supply

Oxidized Asphalt 90/10 is available in multiple packaging options to meet various customer and project requirements, including:

• Kraft paper bags

• Meltable plastic bags

• Steel drums

• Bulk supply

The product is manufactured through a controlled air-blowing process from penetration grade bitumen and supplied in full compliance with ASTM standards, ensuring consistent quality and specification conformity.

Technical Specification – Oxidized Asphalt 90/10

Conclusion

Oxidized Asphalt 90/10 is a high-performance, very hard blown bitumen designed for demanding industrial, waterproofing, and protective applications. Its extremely high softening point, low penetration, and excellent stability make it an ideal choice for projects requiring long-term durability, thermal resistance, and superior waterproofing performance under harsh environmental conditions.