VG 30 bitumen is a viscosity-graded bitumen used primarily in road
construction and paving. The “VG” stands for Viscosity Grade, and the number 30 indicates its viscosity level at 60 degrees Celsius. Bitumen is graded based on its viscosity, which determines its suitable applications and performance in different weather conditions. VG 30 bitumen is commonly used in areas with moderate temperatures and traffic loads, providing good durability and resistance to deformation in road surfaces.
One of the important test items for bitumen would be its viscosity and the bitumen who have special viscosity will be Classification according to its viscosity we have viscosity bitumen grades from 10 to 40 according to their viscosity.
VG 30 Bitumen Characteristics:
- Viscosity: The “VG” classification refers to Viscosity Grade, and “30” denotes its viscosity at 60°C. It signifies its flow characteristics at elevated temperatures.
- Durability: VG 30 bitumen offers good durability and resistance to deformation, making it suitable for road surfaces.
- Temperature Suitability: It is typically used in regions with moderate temperatures.
Applications of VG 30 Bitumen:
- Road Construction: VG 30 bitumen is commonly used in road construction and asphalt pavements.
- Surface Dressing: It can be applied in surface dressing applications to provide a wear-resistant and waterproof surface.
- Paving: Suitable for various paving projects, including highways, airports, and urban roads.
Specifications:
Specifications for VG 30 bitumen may vary slightly based on regional standards, but some general characteristics include:
- Penetration: It typically has a penetration range of 60 to 70 at 25°C, indicating its hardness or softness.
- Softening Point: The softening point range is around 50-60°C, indicating the temperature at which the bitumen becomes soft.
- Viscosity: The viscosity at 60°C ranges between 2400 and 3600 Poises.
- Ductility: Generally, it has a ductility of about 75 cm at 27°C, indicating its stretchiness or elasticity.
The absolute Viscosity of this grade of bitumen at 60 C° would be a minimum of 2400 and if this viscosity increase or decreases the grade of VG bitumen will change and when viscosity will increasing the grade number will increase and if decreasing the grade number will decrease too.
Bitumen VG 30 would be one the best grades of Bitumen for Road construction projects in countries that have humid and moderate climates like India.
This type of Bitumen is a commonly used grade of bitumen or asphalt binder. Bitumen is a highly viscous, black, semi-solid form of petroleum. It is used in road construction and surfacing, as well as in the roofing and waterproofing industries.
Bitumen VG 30 is commonly used in hot mix asphalt (HMA) for road construction and resurfacing. It is also used as a binder in the production of bituminous roofing membranes and waterproofing materials.
Specification of Bitumen Viscosity Grade 30
| Specification | Unit | Value | Test Method |
| Absolute Viscosity, at 60 ◦C | Poise | Min 2400 | ASTM D4402 |
| Kinematic Viscosity, at135 ◦C | CST | Min 350 | ASTM D2170 |
| Flash Point | ◦C | Min 220 | ASTM D93 |
| Solubility in Trichloroethylene | %WT | Min 99 | ASTM D2042 |
| Penetration Value, at 25 ◦C | 0.1mm | 50-70 | ASTM D5 |
| Softening Point | ◦C | Min 47 | ASTM D36 |
| Viscosity Ratio, at 60 ◦C | ◦C | Max 4 | ASTM D4402 |
| Ductility at 25 ◦C, after thin film oven test | Cm | Min 40 | ASTM D113 |
| Specific Gravity, at 25 ◦C | kg/m³ | Min 1.0131 | ASTM D70 |

