Bitumen RC70 – Rapid Curing Cutback Binder for Durable and Fast-Track Roads

Bitumen RC70 is a rapid-curing cutback binder designed for projects where quick setting and strong performance must go hand in hand. Using fast-evaporating petroleum solvents, RC70 cutback bitumen ensures strong adhesion to aggregates while allowing roads to reopen within hours. This balance of efficiency and durability makes it a reliable choice for prime coating, surface dressing, and preventive maintenance.

Positioning RC70 Among Binders

In the cutback family, RC binders prioritize speed, while MC grades focus on penetration. RC30 is the fastest, curing almost immediately, but it may not achieve deep bonding. RC70, by contrast, offers slightly slower curing that allows better penetration into dense bases. This middle ground is what makes Bitumen RC70 ideal for projects that require both fast application and long-term stability.

Technical Performance Profile

Bitumen RC70 complies with ASTM D2028 and AASHTO M82 standards. Its viscosity at 60°C ranges from 70–140 cSt. Residue after distillation is typically 55–65%. Penetration of residue at 25°C measures 80–120 dmm, with ductility above 75 cm. The flash point exceeds 40°C, ensuring safe handling. These properties enable RC70 to cure faster than MC grades while leaving behind a resilient asphalt film for durable pavement performance.

Why Contractors Choose RC70

The main benefit of RC70 cutback bitumen is reduced downtime. Roads treated with RC70 can reopen to traffic within hours, minimizing disruption. Its curing rate provides enough working time for uniform application and proper aggregate coating. Strong adhesion prevents stripping under stress from vehicles or moisture. Once the solvent evaporates, RC70 leaves a flexible asphalt layer that resists cracking and extends service life. For contractors, it represents both speed and reliability in one product.

Application Areas

Bitumen RC70 is widely used in prime coating for moderate-traffic roads, ensuring a stable bond between base and asphalt. In surface dressing, it enhances skid resistance and seals pavements against water infiltration. Maintenance crews use it to seal and strengthen existing surfaces before overlay, extending road life. For temporary roads and detour routes, RC70 provides short-term stability and quick usability. In emergencies, it is a rapid solution for pothole patching and crack sealing.

Manufacturing and Quality Assurance

Production of Bitumen RC70 involves selecting high-quality penetration-grade base bitumen and blending it with light petroleum solvents. The process is controlled to ensure even distribution and prevent premature evaporation. Each batch undergoes ASTM and AASHTO standard tests for viscosity, flash point, penetration, and distillation residue. This ensures the product performs consistently across different climates and project conditions.

Packaging and Global Supply

Bitumen RC70 is supplied in steel drums of 185–200 kg net weight, bulk tankers for large-scale infrastructure, and IBC containers for export and specialized projects. Basekim’s logistics network delivers RC70 worldwide under FOB, CIF, or EXW terms. All shipments include MSDS, Certificates of Analysis, and compliance documents, ensuring safe and reliable delivery.

Safety and Handling

Due to its volatile solvents, RC70 cutback bitumen must be stored in sealed containers in cool, ventilated spaces. Keep away from flames or ignition sources. During handling, workers should use protective gloves, eyewear, and clothing. Adequate ventilation is essential when applying indoors or in confined spaces. Transport and storage must follow ADR/IMO regulations for petroleum-based materials.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can oxidized bitumen replace RC70? No. Oxidized bitumen is for sealing and waterproofing, not rapid priming.
Q2: How does RC70’s curing compare to RC30? RC70 cures more slowly, allowing deeper penetration and stronger adhesion, while RC30 sets faster but with less bonding depth.
Q3: Is blending RC70 with oxidized bitumen common? Rarely, as they serve different engineering purposes and have incompatible curing mechanisms.
Q4: Which product has a longer shelf life? Oxidized grades last longer since they contain no solvents. Bitumen RC70 requires airtight storage to prevent evaporation.