Other Names:
PMB, Modified Bitumen, PMB40, PMB70, PMB76, PMB82, Performance-Graded Bitumen, Polymer-Enhanced Asphalt
Specification Summary
- Purity: ≥99% bitumen base (polymer content varies by grade)
- Form: High-viscosity liquid or semi-solid (temperature-dependent)
- CAS No.: 64742-04-7 (petroleum hydrocarbons), 8052-42-4 (general asphalt)
- Molecular Formula: Complex hydrocarbon mixture (primarily C₅₀–C₇₀)
- Molecular Weight: ~600–1,500 g/mol (varies with polymer blend)
Product Description
Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB) is a black, highly viscous material engineered by blending bitumen with polymers like SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) or EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate). It is insoluble in water, partially soluble in aromatic solvents, and non-corrosive. PMB exhibits neutral to slightly alkaline properties (pH 7–9) and retains stability across extreme temperatures (-20°C to +76°C). Its enhanced elasticity, adhesion, and aging resistance make it superior to conventional bitumen in durability and performance.
Polymer Modified Bitumen Specification Table
| Property | Specification / Typical Value | Test Method |
| Flash Point (min) | ≥230°C | ASTM D92 |
| Viscosity @ 135°C (max) | ≤3.0 Pa·s | ASTM D4402 |
| Softening Point (Ring & Ball) | 60–82°C (grade-dependent) | ASTM D36 |
| Elastic Recovery @ 15°C (min) | ≥60% | ASTM D6084 |
| Penetration @ 25°C | 40–100 dmm | ASTM D5 |
| Solubility in Trichloroethylene | ≥99% | ASTM D2042 |
| Polymer Content (min) | 2–5% (grade-dependent) | Supplier Certification |
| Separation Test (max) | ≤20% difference in softening point | ASTM D7173 |
| Dynamic Shear (G*/sinδ) @ 76°C | ≥1.0 kPa | AASHTO T315 |
Downloadable TDS:
A Technical Data Sheet (TDS) with comprehensive specifications, safety guidelines, and handling protocols is available for download.
Application Sectors and Industries of Polymer Modified Bitumen
High-Traffic Highway Construction
PMB resists rutting, cracking, and deformation under heavy loads, making it ideal for highways, expressways, and freight corridors. Its fatigue resistance extends pavement lifespan by up to 50% compared to unmodified bitumen.
Airport Runways and Taxiways
PMB’s high-temperature stability (up to 76°C) prevents softening under aircraft loads, while its flexibility at low temperatures (-20°C) avoids thermal cracking, ensuring year-round operational safety
Bridge Deck Waterproofing
Used in asphalt overlays, PMB prevents water ingress and corrosion of steel reinforcements. Its elasticity accommodates structural movements, reducing maintenance cycles
Roofing Membranes
PMB-based roofing systems offer superior UV resistance, waterproofing, and flexibility for flat roofs, industrial buildings, and commercial complexes, with lifespans exceeding 20 years
Urban Road Networks
Enhances skid resistance and reduces noise pollution in city roads, while its rapid compaction properties minimize traffic disruption during repairs
Industrial Flooring
PMB provides chemical resistance and load-bearing capacity for factory floors, warehouses, and logistics hubs, withstanding heavy machinery and abrasion
Pavement Maintenance
PMB seal coats and overlays rehabilitate aging roads, extending service life by 10–15 years. Its adhesion properties ensure effective bonding with existing surfaces.
Railway Ballast Stabilization
Reduces trackbed degradation by binding aggregates, minimizing dust and maintenance in high-speed rail networks
Hydraulic Engineering
Used in dam linings, canal coatings, and reservoir membranes for waterproofing and crack resistance under hydrostatic pressure
Sports and Recreational Surfaces
PMB forms the base for tennis courts, cycling tracks, and playgrounds, offering impact absorption and weather resistance
Packaging Types
- Steel Drums (150–200 kg):Sealed, reusable containers for small-scale projects or controlled storage. Ideal for roofing and maintenance applications.
- Bulk Jumbo Bags (500–1,500 kg):Temperature-resistant polypropylene bags with UV protection, designed for bulk transport to construction sites.
- Tankers (20,000–30,000 liters):Insulated, heated tankers for large-scale road projects, ensuring consistent viscosity during long-distance delivery.
- ISO Containers:Standardized shipping containers for international logistics, compatible with global handling infrastructure.
- Custom Pouches and Sachets:Pre-measured, disposable packaging for minor repairs or additive blending in asphalt plants.
Polymer Modified Bitumen’s advanced performance characteristics make it indispensable for modern infrastructure, offering sustainability through reduced material use and extended service life. For detailed technical and safety guidelines, refer to the downloadable TDS
