Nortec is proud to supply high-quality Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB). Developed by PETROCHEM, an EU Petrochemical Company with significant experience in bitumen production, our PMB grades are specially formulated to ensure robust elastic recovery and superior performance, maintaining optimal bitumen properties across a broad spectrum of temperatures in our clients’ diverse climates.

Nortec’s Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB) Specifications

Nortec’s Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB) represents a specialized grade of bitumen, engineered to deliver enhanced performance and durability.

General Specifications

  • Base Bitumen: The foundational bitumen adheres to relevant national or international standards (e.g., ASTM, AASHTO).
  • Polymer Content: The type and percentage of polymer are tailored to specific property requirements and applications. Commonly incorporated polymers include Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene (SBS) and Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA). Typical polymer content ranges from 3% to 7% by weight of the bitumen.

Physical Properties

PMB exhibits superior physical characteristics compared to standard bitumen:

  • Penetration (25°C, 100g, 5s): A lower penetration value signifies increased stiffness. Typical values range from 30-90 dmm.
  • Softening Point (Ring & Ball method): A higher softening point indicates improved resistance to high temperatures. Typical values range from 60°C to 80°C.
  • Elastic Recovery (at 25°C): This critical property demonstrates the modified bitumen’s ability to recover its original shape after deformation. A typical value is > 50%.
  • Viscosity: Higher viscosity ensures better performance at elevated temperatures. Typical values at 135°C are 1.5-3.0 Pa.s.

Performance Properties

  • Storage Stability: Nortec’s PMB is designed to remain stable without phase separation during storage, verified by stability tests conducted at 160°C for 48 hours.
  • Fatigue Resistance: PMB offers improved resistance to fatigue cracking, confirmed through rigorous laboratory methods.
  • Thermal Susceptibility: It demonstrates lower susceptibility to temperature variations compared to unmodified bitumen, ensuring consistent performance across diverse climates.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

  • Temperature Sensitivity: PMB consistently maintains its performance across a broad temperature range.
  • Health and Safety: Production and application adhere to strict safety guidelines to minimize health risks.

Example Specification for SBS Modified Bitumen

For instance, a typical SBS Modified Bitumen might feature:

  • Base Bitumen: Penetration Grade 70/100
  • Polymer Type: SBS (Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene)
  • Polymer Content: 4% by weight
  • Physical Properties:
    • Penetration at 25°C: 40-60 dmm
    • Softening Point: > 70°C
    • Elastic Recovery at 25°C: > 60%
    • Viscosity at 135°C: 2.0 Pa.s
  • Performance Properties:
    • Storage Stability: No significant phase separation
    • Fatigue Resistance: Improved compared to unmodified bitumen
    • Thermal Susceptibility: Reduced compared to unmodified bitumen
Scroll to Top