Bitumen is a dense, sticky, and highly viscous form of petroleum. It is usually dark brown or black and is found naturally or obtained through the distillation of crude oil. Bitumen is commonly used in construction and paving applications, where it serves as a binding material for asphalt in road surfaces and roofing materials.
Key Characteristics of Bitumen:
Viscosity: Highly viscous and thick, even at room temperature.
Waterproof: Repels water, making it ideal for waterproofing applications.
Adhesive Properties: Binds well with aggregates like sand and gravel, forming asphalt concrete.
Temperature Sensitivity: Becomes more fluid at high temperatures, making it workable when heated.
Uses of Bitumen:
Road Construction: Mixed with aggregates to form asphalt, which is used for paving roads.
Roofing: Used in roofing felt and shingles for waterproofing.
Waterproofing: Acts as a barrier in foundations, basements, and other structures.
Sealants: Used in sealing cracks and joints in pavements.
Bitumen can be obtained naturally (often referred to as natural asphalt) or as a byproduct of the oil refining process.
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