Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB) A-E1 Supplier

Bitumen A-E1, also known as PMB AE1, is a medium-grade polymer-modified bitumen designed specifically for moderate climates and medium traffic loads. It combines the elasticity of polymers with the durability of traditional bitumen, resulting in a high-performance Bitumen that resists deformation, fatigue, and cracking under fluctuating temperatures. According to standard MB and ASTM test methods, Bitumen A-E1 demonstrates a well-balanced performance between flexibility at low temperatures and stiffness at high temperatures. This makes it a preferred choice for both urban and rural road applications where temperature variation is moderate but performance reliability is essential.

These technical parameters confirm that Bitumen A-E1 retains its elasticity and cohesiveness even after ageing, ensuring long-term pavement stability.

Climate Suitability

Bitumen A-E1 is engineered for regions with moderate climates, where temperature fluctuations occur but do not reach extreme levels. In such environments, conventional bitumen may harden during cold seasons or soften excessively in summer, leading to cracks or rutting. The polymer modification in A-E1 enhances thermal flexibility, making it resistant to both thermal cracking at low temperatures and rutting at high temperatures.

This makes Bitumen A-E1 ideal for countries in the Middle East, Southern Europe, and parts of Asia, where ambient temperatures range from cool winters to hot summers. It ensures steady performance throughout seasonal variations, maintaining road quality and reducing maintenance frequency.

Advantages & Benefits of PMB AE1

1. Enhanced Flexibility and Elasticity:
   The polymer additives in PMB AE1 significantly improve its flexibility, allowing it to absorb stress and deformation caused by traffic loads and minor ground movement without cracking.

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2. Superior Ageing Resistance:
   With an elastic recovery above 50 % (and > 40 % after ageing), this Bitumen offers long-lasting performance and reduced oxidation effects, ensuring durable pavement life.

3. Thermal Stability:
   Its softening point between 55 – 65 °C provides stability under hot conditions, minimizing the risk of rutting or bleeding in asphalt surfaces.

4. Excellent Adhesion to Aggregates:
   Bitumen A-E1 maintains strong adhesion even in damp conditions, preventing stripping and water damage—critical for rainy regions or areas with fluctuating humidity.

5. Safety and Handling:
   With a flash point above 230 °C, the product ensures safer heating and handling during mixing and paving operations.

6. Improved Road Performance:
   Roads built with A-E1 exhibit smoother surfaces, less cracking, and longer service life, reducing repair costs for authorities and contractors alike.

Typical Applications of PMB AE1

PMB AE1 is versatile and suitable for a wide range of medium-load pavement structures, including:

• Urban roads and highways with moderate traffic volumes.

• Rural and intercity roads, where durability and flexibility are essential.

• Airport taxiways and service roads that require stability under varying weather.

• Bridge decks and roundabouts, where resistance to shear deformation is vital.

• Overlay and maintenance works to rejuvenate aged pavements.

You can use the material in both hot mix asphalt (HMA) and warm mix asphalt (WMA) projects, and it fits easily into current construction methods.

Usage Recommendations

• Mixing Temperature: 160 – 170 °C

• Compaction Temperature: 145 – 155 °C

• Storage Temperature: Up to 180 °C (for short periods only)

• Ensure proper temperature control during heating to maintain polymer integrity.

• Stir well before use to guarantee uniform consistency, especially after prolonged storage.

For optimal results, contractors should ensure clean aggregates, correct bitumen content, and efficient compaction to achieve dense, durable asphalt layers.

Packaging & Delivery

Bitumen A-E1 is available in multiple packaging formats to suit global shipping and project requirements in 180 kg new steel drums and 1 MT jumbo bags with inner polyethylene liner or Bulk delivery in bitutainers or tankers for large-scale asphalt plants. Each package is labeled with batch number, production date, and storage guidelines. To maintain product quality, Bitumen A-E1 should be stored in a dry, shaded area, away from direct sunlight or moisture.

Conclusion

Bitumen A-E1 stands out as a reliable polymer-modified Bitumen that meets international performance standards for moderate climates and medium traffic conditions. Its balance of elasticity, stability, and resistance to ageing ensures that roads remain durable, smooth, and safe for years. With proven test results, adaptability in various applications, and flexible packaging options, PMB AE1 is a preferred solution for modern road construction and maintenance projects worldwide.