ATDM, a trusted global supplier of bitumen, provides high-quality oxidized grades used in many waterproofing systems. Among all applications, the most important one is the oxidized bitumen use in membrane roll, because this material gives the membrane its strength, stability, and long-term protection against water damage. Since modern buildings require reliable waterproofing, oxidized bitumen becomes the core ingredient that ensures roofs, basements, tunnels, and foundations stay dry for many years. Therefore, learning how oxidized bitumen works inside membrane rolls helps buyers, contractors, and manufacturers make better decisions.
A Clear Explanation of Oxidized Bitumen
Oxidized bitumen, also known as blown bitumen, is a modified type of bitumen produced by blowing air into hot bitumen. This process increases its softening point, reduces its penetration, and makes it more stable under heat. Because of this structure, oxidized bitumen becomes harder, stronger, and more resistant to temperature changes.
Manufacturers commonly use grades like bitumen 90/15, 95/25, 105/35, 115/15, and 85/25 when producing waterproofing materials. Each grade offers a different hardness level, so membrane roll producers select the grade depending on weather, temperature, and building type.
Why Oxidized Bitumen Is Used in Membrane Roll Production
The main purpose of membrane rolls is waterproofing. These rolls must handle heat, pressure, and long exposure to sun, moisture, and chemicals. Because of its properties, oxidized bitumen perfectly matches these needs. Additionally, it helps the membrane maintain stability during installation.
Here are the main reasons manufacturers use oxidized bitumen in membrane rolls:
1. High Heat Resistance
Membrane rolls face strong heat during torching or installation. Oxidized bitumen keeps its shape under high temperature and does not melt easily. This stability prevents deformation and guarantees smooth application.
2. Excellent Water Resistance
Because blown bitumen has a dense structure, water cannot pass through it. When mixed into membrane rolls, it forms a tight barrier that prevents water from entering roofs, foundations, or walls.
3. Strong Adhesion to Fibers
Membrane rolls usually contain polyester or fiberglass reinforcement. Oxidized bitumen sticks strongly to these layers and covers them evenly. This adhesion improves the membrane’s mechanical strength and flexibility.
4. Long-Term Durability
Since oxidized bitumen does not age quickly, membranes made with it resist cracks, softening, and brittleness. As a result, buildings stay protected for 10–25 years, depending on the quality.
5. Easy Installation
Manufacturers prefer oxidized bitumen because it melts smoothly and spreads uniformly. Installers also like it because it does not drip or run during hot application.
How Oxidized Bitumen Works Inside a Waterproofing Membrane Roll
To understand the oxidized bitumen use in membrane roll, it’s helpful to know the membrane structure. Standard waterproofing membrane rolls contain:
Top coating of oxidized bitumen
Reinforcement layer (polyester, glass fiber, or composite)
Bottom coating of bitumen mixture
Mineral surface or polyethylene film
In this system, oxidized bitumen becomes the main binder that holds all layers together.
Top Layer Function
The top coating must resist sunlight, heat, and mechanical stress. Oxidized bitumen provides this stability because it does not melt in summer and does not crack in winter.
Reinforcement Layer Bonding
Due to its strong adhesion, oxidized bitumen locks into the fibers and protects the membrane from tearing.
Bottom Layer Performance
When heated during installation, the bottom oxidized bitumen layer melts slightly and sticks to the surface—creating a fully sealed waterproof system.
Types of Membrane Rolls Using Oxidized Bitumen
Different waterproofing membranes rely on oxidized bitumen. These include:
1. APP Modified Membrane
APP (Atactic Polypropylene) membranes mix oxidized bitumen with plastic modifiers. This combination gives higher UV resistance and flexibility.
2. SBS Modified Membrane
SBS (Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene) membranes mix elastomers with oxidized bitumen to improve cold-weather performance.
3. Plain Oxidized Bitumen Membrane
Some basic membranes use only oxidized bitumen without polymer modification. They are cost-effective and ideal for mild climates or small projects.
Advantages of Using Oxidized Bitumen in Membrane Roll Manufacturing
Here are the main benefits:
High softening point prevents melting in hot climates.
Excellent adhesion ensures strong bonding to surfaces.
Long service life reduces maintenance costs.
Stable performance under different weather conditions.
Better chemical resistance against salts and acids.
Improved fire resistance when combined with proper fillers.
Smooth application benefits installers and contractors.
Because of these advantages, oxidized bitumen remains the most trusted binder for membrane roll production worldwide.
Applications of Membrane Rolls Produced with Oxidized Bitumen
These membranes are used in many construction projects, such as:
Residential and commercial roofing
Industrial roofs
Basements and parking structures
Tunnels and subways
Foundations of buildings
Terrace waterproofing
Bridges and overpasses
Water tanks and reservoirs
Every place that requires moisture protection benefits from oxidized-bitumen-based membranes.
How to Choose the Right Oxidized Bitumen Grade for Membrane Rolls
Choosing the correct grade depends on climate, application temperature, and membrane thickness.
Hot Climate Areas
Use grades with higher softening points such as bitumen 115/15 or 105/35.
Cold Climate Areas
Use grades with slightly softer penetration such as 90/15 or 95/25 for improved flexibility.
General Construction Projects
The most common grade for membrane roll production is bitumen 90/15, because it balances heat resistance and flexibility.
ATDM supplies all major grades to membrane factories worldwide. Each batch is tested under ASTM standards to ensure consistent quality and safe performance.
Conclusion
The oxidized bitumen use in membrane roll is essential for producing strong and durable waterproofing systems. ATDM, as a reliable supplier of bitumen, provides high-quality oxidized grades that help manufacturers create membranes with long service life, heat stability, and excellent adhesion. Since construction projects depend on waterproofing to protect buildings, choosing the correct oxidized bitumen improves performance and saves long-term maintenance costs. ATDM continues to support clients with consistent supply, tested material, and expert guidance for every project.
Oxidized bitumen has a higher softening point, stronger structure, and better water resistance. Because of these benefits, it performs much better inside membrane rolls than standard asphalt.
The most commonly used grade is bitumen 90/15 because it provides a good balance of flexibility and thermal resistance suitable for many climates.
Yes. Membranes made with oxidized bitumen resist both hot summers and cold winters. They keep their shape, prevent cracks, and protect surfaces from water damage.