Bitumen PG 58-22: Reliable Asphalt Binder for Moderate Climate Pavements

Bitumen PG 58-22 is a performance grade asphalt binder developed for moderate climate conditions where both summer and winter temperatures remain within controlled limits. Classified under the Superpave Performance Grading (PG) system, this binder is designed to handle pavement temperatures up to 58°C while retaining flexibility down to –22°C.

For road authorities, contractors, and bulk buyers, PG 58-22 provides a cost-effective and dependable solution for highways, urban roads, and regional airports that do not experience extreme temperature variations.

What Does PG 58-22 Represent?

Performance grading provides a more accurate measure of bitumen’s suitability than traditional penetration grades. The two figures in PG 58-22 mean:

• 58°C: The highest pavement temperature the binder can withstand without rutting or deformation.

• –22°C: The lowest pavement temperature it can endure without cracking.

This makes PG 58-22 ideal for temperate regions, where climates are neither excessively hot nor severely cold.

Applications in the Construction Sector

Bitumen PG 58-22 is widely applied in projects with moderate traffic loads and seasonal variations. Key uses include:

• Municipal and Regional Highways – providing durable surfaces for everyday transportation.

• Urban Infrastructure – residential and commercial streets that require stable yet economical pavement.

• Airfields and Runways – regional airports where traffic intensity is manageable.

• Industrial Access Roads – connecting industrial estates, warehouses, and logistics centers.

Its balanced performance makes PG 58-22 one of the most demanded binders for governments and contractors in regions like Europe, Central Asia, and parts of North America.

Compliance and Standards

PG 58-22 is manufactured and tested according to AASHTO M320 standards as part of the Superpave binder specification system. Quality control also adheres to internationally recognized ASTM methods:

• ASTM D5 – Penetration test at 25°C

• ASTM D36 – Softening Point test

• ASTM D92 – Flash Point test

Buyers receive comprehensive test data, ensuring confidence in both product performance and regulatory compliance.

Packaging and Supply Formats

Bitumen PG 58-22 is available in several export packaging formats tailored to international procurement:

• Bulk Tankers and ISO Containers – for high-volume projects.

• New Steel Drums – 180–200 kg net, suitable for global shipping.

• Jumbo Bags (1 MT) – convenient for mid-size projects and flexible logistics.

Exports are carried out under HS Code 27132000, with all required documentation including Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and Certificate of Analysis (COA).

Export and Logistics Considerations

When purchasing PG 58-22, bulk buyers should consider:

• Container Loading – a 20-foot container typically accommodates 110–115 new steel drums.

• Transit Handling – packaging is reinforced to prevent leaks during shipping.

• Supply Terms – available on FOB and CIF basis to major ports.

• Demand Regions – consistent demand in countries with temperate climates and steady infrastructure development.

Comparison: PG 58-22 vs. PG 64-22 and Penetration 60/70

• PG 58-22 vs. PG 64-22: PG 58-22 is engineered for mild to moderate climates, while PG 64-22 offers higher high-temperature resistance (64°C) for hotter regions with heavier loads.

• PG 58-22 vs. Penetration Grade 60/70: Unlike penetration grade 60/70, which is defined only by penetration at 25°C, PG 58-22 provides climate-specific performance values. This ensures more reliable long-term behavior, especially in modern infrastructure projects.

For international buyers, this makes PG 58-22 the economical choice in temperate climates, while PG 64-22 or higher grades are reserved for extreme conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does PG 58-22 mean?
A1: It means the binder performs between 58°C (maximum pavement temperature) and –22°C (minimum pavement temperature).

Q2: Where is PG 58-22 mainly used?
A2: It is most commonly applied in municipal roads, regional highways, and airfields located in temperate climates.

Q3: How does PG 58-22 differ from penetration grades?
A3: PG 58-22 defines temperature-specific performance, while penetration grades define binder hardness at 25°C without considering climate.

Q4: What supply formats are available for PG 58-22?
A4: Bulk shipments, new steel drums, and jumbo bags are available for international buyers.