Oxidized Bitumen, also known as Blown Bitumen, is a specialized petroleum product widely used in industrial, construction, and waterproofing applications. It is produced by blowing air through hot bitumen under controlled conditions, increasing the softening point and reducing penetration. Because climate, regulations, and applications vary by region, the grades of Oxidized Bitumen used around the world differ significantly.
This article provides a clear and practical overview of the most commonly used grades of Oxidized Bitumen in Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and South America, helping buyers, engineers, and traders select the correct grade for each market.
Grades of Oxidized Bitumen In short
The grades of Oxidized Bitumen are typically expressed using a softening point / penetration format, such as 85/25, 95/25, 105/35, or 115/15.
Softening Point (°C): Resistance to heat
Penetration (dmm): Hardness and flexibility
A higher softening point provides better resistance to high temperatures, while a higher penetration value improves flexibility at lower temperatures. Selecting the correct grade is critical to avoid brittleness, flow, cracking, or premature failure.
Grades of Oxidized Bitumen for the African Market
Africa is one of the largest import markets for oxidized bitumen, mainly for roofing felt, waterproofing membranes, pipe coating, and insulation materials. Due to high ambient temperatures, the market prioritizes heat-resistant grades.
Common Grades Used in Africa
115/15 – Very high softening point, ideal for extreme heat
105/35 – Widely used in roofing and membrane production
95/25 – General industrial and coating applications
Market Characteristics
Strong preference for high softening point grades
Less focus on low-temperature flexibility
Packaging mainly in cartons and polybags
High price sensitivity, but heat stability is essential
For countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, Nigeria, and Ghana, the grades of Oxidized Bitumen must remain stable during storage, transport, and application under hot climatic conditions.
Grades of Oxidized Bitumen for the Middle East
The Middle East demands thermally stable and consistent oxidized bitumen grades due to extreme temperatures and large-scale construction activities. Oxidized bitumen is widely used in bituminous membranes, pipe coating, corrosion protection, and industrial insulation.
Common Grades Used in the Middle East
85/25 – Most common grade for waterproofing membranes
90/15 – Used where higher hardness and stability are required
95/25 – Industrial coatings and specialty uses
Market Characteristics
Very high emphasis on heat resistance
Strong demand for consistent quality and uniform COA
Common in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Kuwait, and Qatar
Preference for suppliers complying with ASTM standards
In this region, selecting the correct grades of Oxidized Bitumen is essential to prevent sagging, bleeding, or deformation on exposed surfaces.
European Market
Europe is the most regulated and quality-sensitive market for oxidized bitumen. Buyers focus not only on softening point and penetration, but also on brittle point, aging resistance, and environmental compliance.
Common Grades Used in Europe
85/40 – Higher penetration for better flexibility
90/40 – Industrial coatings and specialty applications
75/35 – Suitable for moderate climates and specific formulations
Market Characteristics
Strict compliance with EN and ASTM standards
High importance of low-temperature performance
Sensitivity to cracking and long-term durability
Used in industrial coatings, sound insulation, and specialty membranes
European buyers carefully select the grades of Oxidized Bitumen to ensure stable performance in cold and variable climates.
Grades of Oxidized Bitumen for the South American Market
South America represents a mixed-climate and mixed-standard market, combining hot tropical regions with cooler highland areas. Oxidized bitumen is mainly used in waterproofing membranes, roofing felt, industrial coatings, and pipe protection.
Common Grades Used in South America
90/25 – Balanced grade for roofing and waterproofing
95/25 – Industrial and coating applications
85/40 – Used in regions with cooler climates or temperature variation
Market Characteristics
Demand varies by country and climate zone
Combination of heat resistance and moderate flexibility
Common markets include Brazil, Chile, Peru, Colombia, and Argentina
Growing preference for ASTM-compliant grades
In South America, choosing the correct grades of Oxidized Bitumen requires careful consideration of both temperature range and end-use application.
Climate Impact on Oxidized Bitumen Grade Selection
Climate is one of the most important factors when selecting grades of Oxidized Bitumen:
Hot climates (Africa & Middle East):
Higher softening point, lower penetration gradesCold or variable climates (Europe & parts of South America):
Moderate softening point, higher penetration grades
Incorrect grade selection may result in cracking, leakage, poor adhesion, or reduced service life.
Packaging and Handling Considerations
In addition to grade selection, packaging plays a key role in usability:
Cartons and polybags: Ideal for membrane manufacturers and easy re-melting
Drums: Preferred for industrial and coating applications
Different grades of Oxidized Bitumen behave differently during melting and handling, making packaging choice an important supply-chain decision.
Conclusion
The grades of Oxidized Bitumen is essential for successful sourcing and application in Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and South America. Each region has unique requirements influenced by climate, regulations, and industrial usage.
By selecting the correct grade—such as 115/15 for Africa, 85/25 for the Middle East, 85/40 for Europe, or 90/25 for South America—buyers can ensure optimal performance, durability, and cost efficiency. For suppliers and traders, offering region-specific grades with consistent quality is the key to long-term success in the global oxidized bitumen market.