Bitumen AC10 ( VG10 )

Viscosity grades Bitumen is categorized according to Viscosity (degree of fluidity) grading. The stiffness of Bitumen increases with the increase in grade. Viscosity tests are conducted at two temperatures, 60°C and 135°C, which represent the temperature of the road surface during summer and mixing temperature respectively, in the Viscosity Grade. The penetration at 25°C, which is the annual average pavement temperature, is also considered in the Specifications. Advantage of Viscosity Grade Bitumen Viscosity Grade Bitumen bitumen is suitable for a wide range of temperatures; 25 ◦C for fatigue cracking and 135 ◦C for construction, also temperature susceptibility can be determined. According to IS, it has only 7 tests while penetration has 14 tests. Fewer tests save time and money. The use of VG Bitumen results in longer-lasting pavement due to its optimal mixing and compaction temperature, which improves pavement performance over time. Any two samples of VG bitumen will exhibit similar rutting performance in hot summer, unlike the penetration grade. The specified minimum kinematic viscosity value at 135 ◦C helps minimize the chance of tender mixes during construction.