What Is Bitumen AH90?
Refiners produce Bitumen AH90—a hard-grade bitumen—primarily for road construction, waterproofing, and insulation applications. This specific grade is known for its durability, high viscosity, and strong resistance to weather conditions.
It gets its name from its penetration and viscosity values. These numbers help engineers know how bitumen will behave in hot and cold climates. Bitumen AH90 has an approximate penetration value of 80 to 100 dmm and a viscosity of 90, hence the name AH90.
This grade of bitumen is one of the most popular in both hot and moderate climates, making it suitable for projects in the Middle East and parts of Europe.
Why Choose Bitumen AH90?
Choosing the right bitumen means fewer repairs, better performance, and lower long-term costs. Bituminous AH90 offers great advantages, including:
Excellent Adhesion: It sticks well to aggregates, making roads last longer.
Temperature Stability: It doesn’t melt too easily in hot climates or crack in cold ones.
Water Resistance: It keeps moisture out, which protects surfaces.
High Durability: With proper application, it can last many years with little maintenance.
Because of these traits, it’s often use in places with varying climates, like the UAE and Turkey.
Main Applications of Bitumen AH90
Bitumen AH90 is versatile. Here’s where and how it’s used:
1. Road Construction and Paving
One of the most common uses of this product is road paving. It binds the stone and sand together and creates a solid, weather-resistant surface. In countries like the UAE and Turkey, where roads face extreme heat and dust, this bitumen type performs especially well.
Roads made using AH90 stay smoother longer and handle heavy traffic without rutting. Plus, thanks to its flexibility, it can resist cracking due to temperature changes.
2. Waterproofing
Bitumen AH90 is also used in waterproofing roofs, basements, and foundations. It acts as a barrier to prevent water from seeping through surfaces. Applied as a coating or membrane, it protects buildings from water damage and mold.
Builders in Turkey and the UAE often use it for large commercial projects because of its proven performance in both humid and dry conditions.
3. Pipe Coating
Pipelines often carry liquids that must not leak. Bitumen AH90 is applied around pipes to stop rust and water damage. It also insulates the pipe against weather and ground movements.
4. Insulation in Construction
Bitumen AH90 helps insulate buildings. It can be added to construction panels or sprayed onto walls and roofs. It traps heat inside during winter and keeps buildings cooler in summer. This saves energy and lowers utility bills.
Key Specifications of Bitumen AH90
Here’s a summary of technical specs for Bitumen AH90:
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Penetration (25°C) | 80–100 dmm |
| Softening Point | ≥ 45°C |
| Viscosity (135°C) | ≥ 90 cSt |
| Flash Point | ≥ 230°C |
| Solubility in TCE | ≥ 99.0% |
These values may vary slightly depending on the supplier and manufacturing process.
UAE and Turkey: Trusted Sources for Bitumen AH90
Both UAE and Turkey are major hubs for producing and exporting Bitumen AH90. These countries have well-equipped refineries, strict quality control, and easy access to global shipping routes.
UAE Suppliers: Known for consistent quality and fast logistics
Turkish Suppliers: Cost-effective and reliable for both European and Asian markets
In addition, Basekim, a leading supplier from Turkey, also offers this grade in different packing types such as new steel drums, poly bags, and bulk shipments. They provide high-quality material suitable for both government and private sector projects.
Packaging and Shipping Options
Bitumen AH90 can be shipped in several forms depending on your needs:
New Steel Drums (180–200 kg): Safe and standard for global transport
Jumbo Bags or Poly Bags: Ideal for large volume and cost-saving
Bulk Bitumen: For big projects with heated tank trucks or containers
Shipments from UAE and Turkey can reach Asia, Africa, and Europe in just a few weeks. This allows contractors to stick to their deadlines and avoid costly delays.
How to Store and Handle Bitumen AH90
Proper storage is essential for keeping Bitumen AH90 in top condition:
Store in shaded areas to avoid heat exposure.
Keep drums upright to prevent leakage.
Use protective gear during handling, including gloves and goggles.
Heat gently before use to avoid sudden boiling or burns.
Remember, bitumen should always be handled with care. Safety first!
FAQs – Bitumen AH90
Q1: Can Bitumen AH90 be used in cold climates?
Yes, it has a good balance of hardness and flexibility, making it suitable for moderate cold temperatures.
Q2: How long does it last?
When applied properly, Bitumen AH90 can last 10–15 years depending on weather and traffic.
Q3: Is Bitumen AH90 safe?
Yes, if stored and handled correctly. It is non-toxic when cured and poses no risk to users.
Q4: What makes AH90 different from other grades?
It has a higher viscosity than softer grades like AH70, which makes it more stable under heavy loads and high temperatures.
Final Thoughts
Bitumen AH90 is a trusted choice for road construction, waterproofing, and pipe insulation. Its high performance in hot and changing climates makes it perfect for countries like the UAE and Turkey. With trusted suppliers such as Basekim, you can ensure consistent quality and fast delivery worldwide.
Whether you’re building highways or waterproofing large structures, Bitumen AH90 offers the durability and reliability you need. Order today and keep your projects strong and secure for years.
