Bitumen MC30 – Fast-Acting Binder for Quick Road Priming

Bitumen MC30 is a medium-curing cutback bitumen widely used for road priming and maintenance projects. Formulated with petroleum solvents that evaporate at a moderate rate, MC30 cutback bitumen penetrates granular bases quickly, ensuring strong adhesion without requiring extensive heating. This combination of efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and durability makes Bitumen MC30 a preferred choice for contractors seeking reliable performance in diverse climates.

Engineering Characteristics of Bitumen MC30

As a medium-curing cutback grade, MC30 balances quick curing with sufficient penetration. According to ASTM D2027 and AASHTO M82 standards, typical technical values include:

• Viscosity at 60°C: 30–60 cSt, ensuring low resistance to flow for easy application.

• Flash Point (°C): Minimum 40, providing safe handling during field use.

• Residue by Distillation (%): 55–65, leaving a flexible binder after solvent evaporation.

• Penetration of Residue (25°C): 80–100 dmm, ensuring resilience under traffic stress.

• Ductility of Residue (25°C): Greater than 75 cm, maintaining flexibility against cracking.

These specifications confirm that Bitumen MC30 combines fast application with long-term pavement stability.

Performance Attributes of MC30 Cutback Bitumen

1. Balanced Curing Rate
   Provides rapid application while still achieving adequate penetration into road bases. Allows earlier opening to traffic without compromising bond strength.

2. Easy Application
   With its low viscosity, MC30 bitumen can be applied by spraying, brushing, or mechanical distribution, minimizing the need for heating equipment.

3. High Adhesion Strength
   Ensures firm aggregate bonding, reducing the risk of stripping or displacement under traffic loads.

4. All-Weather Suitability
   Performs reliably in varied climates, including both arid and humid regions.

5. Durable Binder Residue
   After curing, Bitumen MC30 leaves a resilient asphalt film that resists cracking, deformation, and wear.

Practical Applications of Bitumen MC30

• Prime Coating for Roads: Deeply penetrates granular bases, creating a strong interlayer bond between the foundation and asphalt surfacing.

• Surface Dressing: Suitable for low to medium traffic roads and rural pathways, enhancing skid resistance.

• Road Maintenance and Patching: Used in sealing and small-scale repairs to extend pavement life.

• Dust Suppression: Stabilizes unpaved industrial, agricultural, and mining roads by binding surface particles.

• Quick-Turnaround Projects: Enables faster curing compared to slow-curing grades, saving both time and project costs.

Production and Quality Control

The manufacturing of MC30 cutback bitumen follows a controlled process to ensure consistency:

• Base Bitumen Selection: High-quality penetration grade bitumen is chosen.

• Solvent Blending: Medium-rate petroleum distillates are added to create the required curing profile.

• Controlled Heating and Mixing: Ensures uniform distribution while preventing early evaporation.

• Laboratory Verification: Every batch undergoes ASTM and AASHTO testing for viscosity, penetration, flash point, and residue properties.

• Airtight Storage: Final product is stored in sealed tanks and containers to preserve volatile components.

Supply, Packaging, and Export Options

Basekim supplies Bitumen MC30 in multiple packaging solutions tailored to project scale:

• New Steel Drums: 185–200 kg net weight with anti-corrosion protection.

• Bulk Tanker Loads: For large-scale infrastructure projects requiring continuous supply.

• IBC Containers: Flexible packaging for industrial use and controlled dispensing.

• Custom Orders: Available upon client request for special applications.

Deliveries are arranged under FOB or CIF terms, with complete Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), Certificates of Analysis (COA), and shipping compliance documents.

Safety and Environmental Handling

Due to its solvent content, MC30 cutback bitumen requires careful handling:

• Store in airtight containers in cool, ventilated areas.

• Keep away from open flames, sparks, and heat sources.

• Use protective gloves, eyewear, and clothing during application.

• Ensure proper ventilation in enclosed areas to prevent solvent accumulation.

• Follow international transport regulations for petroleum-based products.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can oxidized bitumen replace MC30 for road priming?
No. Oxidized bitumen is intended for sealing and industrial use, while Bitumen MC30 is engineered for fast-curing road priming.

Q2: How does MC30 compare in flexibility to oxidized bitumen?
MC30 cutback bitumen remains flexible after curing, while oxidized grades are harder and less elastic.

Q3: Is blending MC30 with oxidized bitumen common?
Not generally, as their curing rates and applications differ.

Q4: What is the shelf life of MC30?
Since MC30 contains volatile solvents, it should be stored in sealed containers to maintain quality. Oxidized grades typically last longer.