Asphalt is composed of bitumen, sand, gravel, and other materials. The bitumen acts as a binding agent to hold the other components together and provide strength to the asphalt surface. The sand and gravel provide additional strength and stability to the asphalt surface. Other materials such as polymers and resins can also be added to improve the performance of the asphalt.
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The price of bitumen / asphalt cement and asphalt can vary depending on the type of product being used and the location. Bitumen is typically more expensive than asphalt due to its higher production costs. Asphalt, on the other hand, is usually cheaper due to its lower production costs and availability in larger quantities. The cost of bitumen also depends on the grade and quality of the material being used. Generally, higher grades of bitumen are more expensive than lower grades.
In conclusion, bitumen and asphalt are not the same. Bitumen is a raw material used in the production of asphalt, which is a man-made product composed of bitumen, sand, gravel, and other materials. The bitumen acts as a binding agent to hold the other components together and provide strength to the asphalt surface.
Types of bitumen used in asphalt include the following:
- Natural bitumen:
- This bitumen is naturally extracted from the ground and usually exists in certain areas.
- 2. Reduced bitumen:
- This type of bitumen is obtained from the distillation of crude oil and is one of the most widely used bitumen in asphalt production.
- Bitumen modified with polymer:
- By adding polymers to reduced bitumen, its mechanical properties are improved and it is more durable. It is usually used for areas with high traffic or harsh weather conditions.
- Bitumen emulsion:
- A type of bitumen that is dissolved in water and supplied as an emulsion. This type of bitumen is easy to use and functional.
- Brick bitumen:
- A type of bitumen that is used in making bitumen and asphalt and is usually used in local and small asphalting.
- 6. Nano bitumen:
- A type of advanced bitumen produced with nanotechnology and has special characteristics against temperature and pressure changes.
These types of bitumen are selected depending on weather conditions, project type, and road traffic.