PMB 70 stands for Polymer Modified Bitumen 70. It’s a special type of bitumen made by blending regular bitumen with polymers (plastics or rubber-like additives). As a result, this combination results in a material that is stronger and more flexible than regular bitumen.
The number “70” refers to its penetration grade, which measures the hardness of the bitumen. Specifically, PMB 70 is balanced—neither too soft nor too hard—making it ideal for many climates and applications.
Technical Properties of PMB 70
PMB 70 has a number of technical advantages that make it a preferred choice for construction projects. These properties are essential for ensuring durability and performance:
Medium Hardness:
The penetration value of Polymer Modified Bitumen 70. is around 50–90 (measured at 25°C). This gives it a balanced hardness, which is suitable for moderate climates.
High Softening Point:
Additionally, PMB 70 can withstand temperatures up to 55°C before softening. This makes it resistant to deformation and rutting, particularly in hot weather conditions.
Elastic Recovery:
Furthermore, PMB 70 is highly elastic, meaning it can stretch and return to its original shape. In fact, it recovers over 60-70% of its stretch in lab tests, making it ideal for heavy traffic.
Strong Adhesion:
Moreover, Polymer Modified Bitumen 70. adheres well to aggregates (stones and sand used in asphalt). This prevents the material from loosening over time, ultimately creating a smoother, longer-lasting road surface.
Temperature Resilience:
Notably, PMB 70 can handle both high heat and cold conditions. It doesn’t crack in the winter or soften in the summer, making it a reliable material throughout the year.
Uses and Applications of PMB 70
Due to its unique properties, PMB 70 is widely used in a variety of construction applications, including:
First and foremost, PMB 70 is perfect for roads, particularly in areas with heavy traffic. Its durability and resistance to cracking and deformation make it ideal for:
Highways
City streets
Urban intersections
In addition, in hot climates like the UAE or Turkey, Polymer Modified Bitumen 70 helps roads withstand extreme temperatures.
Waterproofing and Roofing
In addition to road construction, Polymer Modified Bitumen 70 is commonly used in waterproofing systems, especially for roofing. For example:
It creates a waterproof barrier on roofs.
It resists water damage and prevents leaks, making it perfect for both residential and commercial buildings.
Furthermore, due to its elasticity, it also works well in roofing membranes, preventing cracking caused by temperature changes.
Pavement and Crack Repairs
When roads or pavements start to crack, PMB 70 can quickly and effectively seal those cracks. Thanks to its adhesion properties, it bonds well with existing road material, preventing further damage. Specifically, PMB 70:
Seals potholes
Prevents cracks from worsening
Saves time and money on repairs
Airport Runways and Bridges
In critical areas like airport runways and bridges, Polymer Modified Bitumen 70 is often used due to its resilience. For instance, it can:
Handle heavy loads from airplanes
Endure constant vibrations and temperature changes
Keep surfaces intact despite the stress of high-speed landings
Benefits of Using Polymer Modified Bitumen 70
There are several key benefits to using Polymer Modified Bitumen 70 for construction projects. These advantages make it a cost-effective choice for a wide range of applications:
Longer Lifespan:
Roads built with PMB 70 last longer, thereby reducing the need for repairs and resurfacing over time.
Crack Resistance:
Additionally, the material remains flexible, which prevents cracks even under heavy traffic or extreme weather.
Rut and Deformation Resistance:
PMB 70 resists rutting (sunken tracks) in hot weather, keeping the road surface level and smooth.
Better Adhesion & Water Resistance:
Since PMB 70 sticks well to aggregates, it makes roads more durable. It also resists water damage, preventing stripping where the asphalt loses its grip.
High Temperature and Weather Tolerance:
Lastly, PMB 70 performs well across a wide range of temperatures, from hot summers to cold winters, making it a versatile material.
PMB 70 vs. Other Bitumen Grades
When comparing Polymer Modified Bitumen 70 to other types of bitumen, it stands out due to its superior properties. For example:
| Property | Regular Bitumen | PMB 70 |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | Low | High |
| Heat Resistance | Poor | Excellent |
| Cold Crack Resistance | Low | High |
| Lifespan | Short | Long |
| Maintenance Cost | High | Low |
Overall, PMB 70 is a great middle ground between harder and softer grades of polymer-modified bitumen. It’s the perfect choice for moderate climates or general use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Polymer Modified Bitumen 70. is a versatile, high-performance bitumen that offers long-lasting, flexible, and strong solutions for roads, roofing, and construction projects. It’s highly resistant to cracking, deformation, and water damage, making it ideal for both hot and cold climates.
As a result, Polymer Modified Bitumen 70 helps engineers build safer, more durable infrastructure with fewer maintenance needs. Suppliers like Basekim provide high-quality Polymer Modified Bitumen 70 for major infrastructure projects across regions like the UAE and Turkey.
