Cutback Bitumen MC-30: Specifications, Uses and Handling Guide

MC-30 cutback bitumen is the go-to medium-curing grade for prime coats on granular bases in warm, dry climates because its 30, 60 cSt viscosity at 60 °C allows cold spraying through standard distributor nozzles without pre-heating. This guide consolidates the critical ASTM D2028 specification limits, explains how the kerosene cutter stock governs curing speed, and compares MC-30 against MC-70, MC-250, MC-800, and MC-3000 so you can match the grade to your site conditions and traffic category.

MC-30 Cutback Bitumen: Quick-Reference Specification Card

Procurement teams verify compliance against Eurobitume benchmarks showing the estimated world consumption of bitumen in 2022 was approximately 120 million tonnes. European bitumen consumption is approximately 20.5 million tonnes annually according to Eurobitume (2022) Eurobitume. The table below consolidates the critical ASTM D2028 limits so buyers can cross-check a Certificate of Analysis in seconds without opening the full standard.

Test Property	Test Method	Min	Max	Unit	Significance
Kinematic Viscosity at 60 °C	ASTM D2170	30	60	cSt	Sprayability at ambient temperature
Distillate to 225 °C	ASTM D402	,	35	% vol	Light-end solvent loss control
Distillate to 260 °C	ASTM D402	10	55	% vol	Medium fraction evaporation rate
Distillate to 316 °C	ASTM D402	60	87	% vol	Total cutter stock recovery
Residue Penetration 25 °C	ASTM D5	120	250	0.1 mm	Softness after curing
Residue Ductility 25 °C	ASTM D113	100	,	cm	Cohesion of cured film
Residue Solubility in Trichloroethylene	ASTM D2042	99.0	,	% wt	Purity of base bitumen

Read the table left to right: the viscosity window of 30, 60 cSt at 60 °C defines the MC-30 grade and ensures the product passes through standard distributor nozzles without pre-heating. Distillation cuts at 225 °C, 260 °C and 316 °C confirm the kerosene-range cutter stock will evaporate at a medium pace, leaving a residue that meets the 120, 250 penetration and 100 cm minimum ductility. Solubility above 99 % guarantees the base bitumen is free of mineral contaminants that would weaken the prime coat bond.

Viscosity at 60°C and kinematic limits

Viscosity at 60 °C and kinematic limits define the spray window for MC-30. The ASTM D2170 range of 30, 60 cSt means the material flows through a standard distributor bar at 40, 60 °C without additional heating. Field crews confirm viscosity with a Saybolt Furol viscometer on site; readings outside the band indicate solvent loss or contamination and require lab re-test before application.

Distillation cut-off temperatures and volume percentages

Distillation cut-off temperatures and volume percentages track the cutter-stock volatility profile. ASTM D402 sets volume-percentage limits for the 225 °C, 260 °C and 316 °C cuts. These bands ensure the kerosene fraction evaporates fast enough for traffic return within 24 hours but slowly enough to penetrate the granular base. A shift toward the upper limit at 225 °C signals excess light ends that create safety and curing problems.

Residue penetration, ductility, and solubility requirements

Residue penetration, ductility, and solubility requirements prove the base bitumen quality after solvent evaporation. The 120, 250 penetration at 25 °C confirms a semi-hard binder that resists rutting yet remains flexible. Minimum 100 cm ductility at 25 °C ensures the cured film stretches over minor substrate cracks without breaking. Solubility above 99 % in trichloroethylene verifies the residue is essentially pure bitumen, free of ash or inorganic fillers that would weaken adhesion.

What Is MC-30? Composition, Curing Class & Viscosity Grade

MC-30 is a medium-curing cutback bitumen produced by blending penetration-grade bitumen with a kerosene-range petroleum solvent. The Eurobitume data shows the European market accounts for 17% of global bitumen consumption, reflecting the grade’s widespread use in temperate climates. The “MC” prefix denotes medium curing speed, while “30” identifies the kinematic viscosity band of 30, 60 cSt at 60 °C, making it the thinnest standard MC grade suitable for spray application without heating.

Penetration-grade bitumen base and solvent type

Penetration-grade bitumen base and solvent type determine MC-30’s field behavior. Manufacturers typically start with 80/100 or 60/70 penetration grade bitumen and cut it with 25, 35 % by weight of straight-run kerosene boiling between 200 °C and 300 °C. The solvent reduces viscosity to the target 30, 60 cSt range, allowing cold spraying. Once applied, the kerosene evaporates over 12, 36 hours, leaving the original penetration-grade binder to coat and bind the granular base.

Medium-curing classification and field implications

Medium-curing classification and field implications separate MC-30 from rapid-curing (RC) and slow-curing (SC) alternatives. The kerosene cutter evaporates slower than the naphtha in RC grades but faster than the heavy oils in SC grades. This middle ground gives crews a 4, 8 hour working window for penetration into the base course before the film becomes tack-free, and allows traffic return typically within 24 hours in dry weather. Humidity or low temperature extends curing proportionally. World exports of petroleum bitumen exceeded $10.5 billion in 2023 according to Trendeconomy (UN Comtrade data), underscoring the global trade volume behind these grades.

Viscosity grade meaning for spray application

Viscosity grade meaning for spray application translates the 30, 60 cSt spec into equipment settings. At 50 °C the product typically measures 40, 50 cSt, which matches standard distributor nozzles rated for 0.25, 0.50 gal/yd² without pre-heating the tank. Contractors verify viscosity daily with a handheld viscometer; a reading above 60 cSt indicates solvent loss during storage and requires rejection or laboratory re-blending before use.

MC-30 vs. Other MC Grades: Selection Matrix by Climate & Traffic

Selecting the correct cutback bitumen grade requires matching viscosity to the aggregate type, traffic load, and ambient temperature. MC-30 sits in the medium-viscosity range, offering a balance between penetration speed and curing stability. Choosing between MC-30, MC-70, MC-250, MC-800, and MC-3000 depends on the specific needs of the base course and the environmental conditions during application. The following comparison outlines the key differences to help engineers and contractors make informed decisions.

Viscosity and solvent content comparison across MC grades

Viscosity and solvent content comparison across MC grades reveals a direct correlation between lighter cutbacks and faster curing. MC-30 contains a higher proportion of volatile solvents like kerosene compared to heavier grades, resulting in a kinematic viscosity of 30, 60 cSt at 50 °C. This high volatility allows it to penetrate porous granular bases effectively. In contrast, MC-70 has a viscosity range of 60, 120 cSt, making it slightly thicker and slower to penetrate. Heavier grades like MC-250 and MC-800 contain less volatile distillates, resulting in viscosities of 250, 400 cSt and 800, 1200 cSt respectively. These heavier grades retain moisture longer and are better suited for surface treatments or cold mixes where rapid curing is undesirable. The solvent content dictates the curing speed, with MC-30 evaporating faster than MC-800, which may take several days to fully cure depending on weather conditions.

Curing time and temperature sensitivity differences

Curing time and temperature sensitivity differences determine the operational window for construction crews. MC-30 typically cures within 4 to 8 hours under standard conditions, allowing traffic to resume within 24 hours. This rapid curing is due to its kerosene-based cutter, which evaporates quickly in warm, dry weather. However, MC-30 is highly sensitive to low temperatures and high humidity, which can significantly delay curing and leave residual solvent in the pavement. Heavier grades like MC-250 and MC-800 cure much slower, often requiring 24 to 72 hours or more. This slower curing makes them less sensitive to adverse weather but increases the risk of tracking or contamination before the binder sets. Contractors must adjust application rates and timing based on the grade's specific curing profile to ensure proper bonding and pavement integrity.

Recommended climate zones and traffic categories per grade

Recommended climate zones and traffic categories per grade guide the selection process for optimal performance. MC-30 is ideal for dry, warm climates and low-to-medium traffic roads where rapid curing is essential to minimize traffic disruption. It is commonly used for prime coats on granular bases in arid regions. MC-70 is versatile and suitable for moderate climates with mixed traffic loads, offering a balance between penetration and durability. Heavier grades like MC-250 and MC-800 are preferred in cooler or humid climates where rapid curing is not feasible, or for high-traffic roads requiring deeper penetration and longer curing times. MC-3000 is rarely used for prime coats but may be found in specialized cold mixes or surface treatments where slow curing is beneficial. Understanding these recommendations helps prevent application failures and ensures long-term pavement performance.

Grade	Viscosity (cSt @ 50°C)	Solvent Volatility	Curing Time	Primary Use Case
MC-30	30, 60	High	4, 8 hours	Prime coat on granular bases in warm/dry climates
MC-70	60, 120	Medium	8, 12 hours	General prime coat for moderate traffic
MC-250	250, 400	Low	24+ hours	Prime coat in cool/humid climates
MC-800	800, 1200	Very Low	48+ hours	Heavy traffic roads or surface treatments
MC-3000	3000+	Negligible	Several days	Cold mix or specialized surface applications

The table above illustrates the trade-off between viscosity and curing speed. Engineers should select the grade that aligns with their site's specific environmental and traffic demands. For more details on bitumen specifications and standards, refer to our regulatory guide.

Approved Applications: Prime Coat, Tack Coat, Fog Seal & Cold Mix

MC-30 cutback bitumen is a versatile material used in various road construction and maintenance applications. Its medium-curing properties and appropriate viscosity make it suitable for prime coats, tack coats, fog seals, and cold mixes. Understanding the specific use cases for MC-30 helps contractors optimize their pavement construction and maintenance strategies. The following sections detail the four primary applications, highlighting the benefits and typical usage rates for each.

Prime coat for granular and stabilized bases

Prime coat for granular and stabilized bases is the most common application for MC-30 cutback bitumen. It is applied to the top surface of a granular base course to penetrate the voids and bind the aggregate particles together, creating a solid foundation for the asphalt layer. MC-30's high solvent content allows it to penetrate deeply into the base, typically at a rate of 0.3 to 0.7 liters per square meter. This penetration ensures strong adhesion between the base and the asphalt overlay. The medium-curing nature of MC-30 allows sufficient time for penetration before the solvent evaporates, leaving a cohesive binder film. Contractors must ensure the base is clean and dry before application to prevent contamination and ensure proper bonding. MC-30 is preferred over heavier grades for prime coats due to its ability to penetrate porous materials effectively.

Tack coat between asphalt lifts

Tack coat between asphalt lifts is another critical application for MC-30, ensuring bond integrity between layers of asphalt pavement. A thin layer of MC-30 is sprayed onto the existing asphalt surface before placing the next lift, creating a chemical and mechanical bond that prevents slippage and delamination. The typical application rate for tack coats is lower than for prime coats, usually ranging from 0.05 to 0.15 liters per square meter. MC-30's medium viscosity allows it to be evenly distributed without excessive runoff, while its rapid curing ensures the next lift can be placed shortly after application. Proper application of tack coats is essential for the structural integrity and longevity of multi-layered asphalt pavements. Contractors must control the spray pattern and rate to avoid over-application, which can lead to bleeding, or under-application, which can result in weak bonds.

Fog seal for aged pavement rejuvenation

Fog seal for aged pavement rejuvenation utilizes MC-30 to restore flexibility and waterproofing to older asphalt surfaces. A diluted mixture of MC-30 is sprayed onto the pavement surface, penetrating micro-cracks and restoring the binder's binding properties. This application helps prevent water infiltration and oxidation, extending the life of the pavement. The application rate for fog seals is typically low, around 0.1 to 0.3 liters per square meter, depending on the condition of the existing pavement. MC-30's medium-curing properties allow it to cure quickly, minimizing traffic disruption. Fog seals are particularly effective in arid climates where pavement aging is accelerated by UV exposure and temperature fluctuations. Regular fog sealing can defer more expensive rehabilitation measures and maintain pavement performance.

Cold-mix stockpile patching material

Cold-mix stockpile patching material incorporates MC-30 as a binder in pre-mixed asphalt patches for temporary or permanent repairs. MC-30's ability to cure at ambient temperatures makes it ideal for cold-mix applications, where the asphalt is mixed and stored without heating. The solvent in MC-30 keeps the mix workable during storage and allows it to harden after application. Typical patching materials may contain 3 to 5 percent MC-30 by weight of the aggregate. This application is useful for pothole repair and localized pavement damage, especially in remote locations or during winter months when hot-mix asphalt plants are closed. MC-30's medium viscosity ensures good coating of the aggregate, while its curing properties allow the patch to gain strength over time. Proper compaction is essential to ensure the patch performs well under traffic loads.

Prime-Coat Application Guide: Rates, Equipment & Curing Protocol

Surface cleaning and moisture limits before spraying

Surface cleaning and moisture limits before spraying require the base to be free of loose material, dust, and standing water. The substrate moisture content must not exceed the optimum moisture content for compaction, typically verified with a nuclear gauge or oven-dry method. Sweeping with a motorized broom followed by compressed air jets removes fines that block penetration. If the surface is too wet, the solvent in MC-30 cannot displace water in the voids, leading to poor bonding and potential stripping. A visual inspection should confirm a uniformly damp, not saturated, appearance before the distributor enters the lane.

Distributor nozzle angle, pressure, speed, and overlap checklist

Distributor nozzle angle, pressure, speed, and overlap checklist starts with setting the spray bar height to achieve a triple-overlap pattern, usually 300 to 450 millimeters above the base. Nozzle angles are typically set between 15 and 30 degrees from vertical to prevent streaking. Pump pressure must maintain 150 to 300 kilopascals for a uniform fan spray. Ground speed is calibrated so the application rate matches the target liters per square meter; a test run with a measured volume over a known area validates the setting. Overlap between passes must not exceed 100 millimeters to avoid excess buildup at the joints.

Spray-rate calculator table by base type (granular, stabilized, RAP)

Spray-rate calculator table by base type (granular, stabilized, RAP) provides the starting application rates for MC-30 prime coats. The actual rate is adjusted after a field trial section to achieve full penetration without surface pooling. The table below summarizes typical ranges used in specification documents.

Base Type	Typical Rate (L/m²)	Penetration Target (mm)	Residual Bitumen Target (%)
Granular (Unbound)	0.9, 1.4	8, 12	55, 65
Cement Stabilized	0.6, 0.9	5, 8	55, 65
Lime Stabilized	0.7, 1.0	5, 8	55, 65
RAP / Recycled Base	0.5, 0.8	3, 6	55, 65

The table shows that unbound granular bases demand the highest volume due to high void content, while recycled asphalt pavement bases require the least because the existing binder limits absorption. Field inspectors measure penetration depth with a calibrated probe at 15-minute intervals after spraying. If the prime coat remains tacky beyond the expected cure window, the rate is reduced by 0.1 L/m² increments for subsequent loads. Residual bitumen percentage is verified by sampling the sprayed material per ASTM D2995.

Curing window (24, 48 h) and sand blotter protocol

Curing window (24, 48 h) and sand blotter protocol requires the prime coat to cure until the solvent has evaporated sufficiently to prevent pickup by construction traffic. In hot, dry climates curing may complete in 12 hours, while cool, humid conditions can extend the window beyond 48 hours. Traffic is prohibited until the surface loses tackiness. If early access is unavoidable, a sand blotter of clean, dry sand meeting ASTM C33 gradation is spread at 2 to 4 kilograms per square meter using a mechanical spreader. The sand is left in place and rolled lightly with a pneumatic roller to embed it. Excess sand is swept before the surface course is placed. This protocol protects the prime coat and provides a non-slip surface for temporary traffic.

Cold-Weather & High-Humidity Adjustments

Minimum spray temperature and safe pre-heating practices

Minimum spray temperature and safe pre-heating practices dictate that MC-30 must not be sprayed below 10 degrees Celsius ambient temperature or when the base temperature is below 5 degrees Celsius. The product is heated in the distributor tank using a closed-loop oil jacket or flue system to a maximum of 85 degrees Celsius; open-flame heating is prohibited due to fire hazard and localized overheating that degrades the bitumen. Temperature is monitored with a calibrated thermometer at the spray bar. Heating above 90 degrees Celsius causes premature solvent loss, increasing viscosity and reducing penetration. The tank is circulated continuously during heating to maintain uniform temperature. If the base is frozen, application is delayed until thawing and drainage are complete.

Humidity effects on solvent evaporation and cure rate

Humidity effects on solvent evaporation and cure rate are significant because the kerosene-range solvent in MC-30 evaporates more slowly when the air is saturated. At relative humidity above 80 percent, the curing window can double compared to dry conditions. This prolongs the period when the prime coat is susceptible to pickup and runoff. Specifications often require a minimum 24-hour cure before paving regardless of apparent surface condition. Field crews monitor the surface with a glove test: a clean cotton glove pressed on the prime coat should show no stain. If staining occurs, additional cure time is mandatory. Wind speed above 5 kilometers per hour helps offset humidity by removing the saturated boundary layer.

Anti-stripping additive selection and dosage

Anti-stripping additive selection and dosage addresses the risk of moisture damage in the prime coat layer when high humidity or cool temperatures slow curing. Liquid amine-based additives, typically 0.25 to 0.50 percent by weight of bitumen, are blended into the MC-30 at the terminal or in the distributor tank using a calibrated injection pump. The additive improves adhesion between the residual bitumen and damp aggregate surfaces. Compatibility is verified by the boiling water test (ASTM D3625) on the treated aggregate before full-scale production. Overdosing can cause foaming during spraying and reduce the viscosity below specification limits. The additive batch number and dosage rate are recorded on the certificate of analysis for traceability.

Packaging, Loading & Export Logistics (Drum, IBC, Bulk, Bitutainer)

Drum, IBC, bulk, and bitutainer capacity and tare weights

Standard packaging for MC-30 includes 190-liter steel drums, 1000-liter IBC totes, bulk tankers, and 20-foot bitutainers. A new 190-liter drum has a tare weight of approximately 18 kilograms and holds a net payload of 175 kilograms of bitumen at 15 degrees Celsius. An IBC tote carries a tare weight near 65 kilograms with a net capacity of 920 kilograms. Bulk road tankers typically load 22 to 25 metric tonnes depending on local axle limits. A 20-foot bitutainer fitted with a steam-heated tank holds up to 22 metric tonnes net and eliminates drum handling at the destination. Payload efficiency favors bulk and bitutainer modes for volumes above 200 tonnes per shipment.

Package Type	Nominal Volume (L)	Net Payload (kg)	Tare Weight (kg)	Units per 20 ft Container	Typical Discharge Method
Steel Drum	190	175	18	80	Gravity or pump
IBC Tote	1000	920	65	18	Pump or gravity
Bulk Tanker	22000-25000	22000-25000	Vehicle tare	N/A	Pump / compressor
Bitutainer	22000	22000	Container tare ~2500	1 per 20 ft slot	Pump / steam coil

The table compares the four primary shipping modes by volume, payload, tare weight, containerization factor, and discharge method. Drums maximize flexibility for small projects but require palletizing and drum handling equipment. IBCs reduce unit count and handling time but need forklift access and pump fittings. Bulk tankers offer the lowest unit cost for domestic or cross-border land moves. Bitutainers combine bulk economics with intermodal reach, allowing steam heating during transit to maintain spray viscosity without drum decanting losses.

Loading and discharge equipment compatibility

Drums are loaded on standard pallets using forklifts and discharged by tilting into a heated kettle or by drum pump through a 2-inch bung. IBCs require a forklift or crane with a minimum 1.5-tonne capacity and a 3-inch camlock or butterfly valve connection for closed-system pumping. Bulk tankers connect via 3-inch or 4-inch camlock fittings to a plant inlet manifold; a positive displacement pump on the tanker or at the depot achieves discharge rates of 15 to 20 cubic meters per hour. Bitutainers sit on chassis or ground slots; steam coils heat the cargo to 80 degrees Celsius before a bottom-mounted pump discharges through a 3-inch insulated line. All transfer hoses must be rated for hydrocarbon service at 100 degrees Celsius and grounded to prevent static discharge.

Export documentation and hazardous goods classification

MC-30 is classified under UN 1999, Class 3, Packing Group III for transport. The bill of lading must show the proper shipping name "Tars, liquid, including road oils, and cutback bitumens" with the UN number and flash point in Celsius. A safety data sheet compliant with GHS Revision 10 accompanies every shipment. For maritime export, the IMDG code requires a dangerous goods declaration and container packing certificate confirming segregation from oxidizers. Customs documentation includes a commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and certificate of analysis referencing ASTM D2027 or EN 15322. Letters of credit often stipulate a pre-shipment inspection report from an approved agency verifying drum condition, fill weight, and seal integrity before the container gates into the port.

Storage Life, Drum Inspection & Solvent-Loss Prevention

Maximum storage duration under standard conditions

MC-30 retains specification compliance for 12 months from the date of manufacture when stored in sealed original packaging at ambient temperatures below 35 degrees Celsius. Extended storage beyond 12 months risks solvent evaporation through drum seals, increasing viscosity and altering the distillation curve. In tropical climates where shade temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius, the practical shelf life reduces to 6 months unless climate-controlled warehousing is used. Bulk storage tanks fitted with conservation vents and floating roofs can extend stability to 18 months by minimizing headspace vapor losses. Stock rotation follows first-in-first-out discipline; each delivery batch receives a color-coded tag indicating the manufacturing quarter.

Drum receiving inspection checklist with pass/fail criteria

Every drum received at the depot undergoes a five-point inspection before acceptance. First, the drum body must show no dents deeper than 10 millimeters, no corrosion pitting, and no evidence of re-welding. Second, the top and bottom chimes must be intact with no splits that could leak under stacking loads. Third, the 2-inch and 3/4-inch bungs must be present, threads undamaged, and gaskets seated; a torque wrench confirms closure at 60 newton-meters for the large bung and 25 newton-meters for the small bung. Fourth, the drum label must display the manufacturer name, grade MC-30, batch number, net weight, manufacture date, and UN marking. Fifth, a random sample of one drum per 50 is weighed; net weight must fall within 173 to 177 kilograms. Drums failing any criterion are quarantined for vendor claim.

Inspection Point	Pass Criteria	Fail Action	Frequency
Body condition	No dents >10 mm, no pitting, no re-welds	Quarantine for claim	100%
Chime integrity	No splits, tight rolling hoops	Quarantine for claim	100%
Bung closure	Threads clean, gaskets seated, torque verified	Re-torque or replace bung	100%
Label completeness	All mandatory fields legible	Request replacement label	100%
Net weight check	173-177 kg per drum	Full lot weighment	1 per 50 drums

The checklist standardizes receiving quality control across depots. Visual defects on the body or chime indicate potential leak paths that worsen during stacking. Bung torque verification prevents the most common source of solvent loss. Weight sampling at 2 percent frequency detects systematic underfill before the lot enters inventory. Failed drums are segregated, photographed, and reported to the supplier within 48 hours with a non-conformance report referencing the bill of lading number.

Venting, shading, and stock rotation procedures

Drums are stored on pallets no more than three high on a compacted, well-drained surface shaded by a UV-resistant canopy that reduces surface temperature by 8 to 10 degrees Celsius. Conservation vents on bulk tanks open at 0.5 kilopascal pressure and 0.3 kilopascal vacuum to breathe without continuous vapor escape. Drums remain sealed until the day of use; pre-opening drums to "air out" accelerates solvent loss and is prohibited. Inventory software flags lots approaching 9 months of age for priority dispatch. During winter, drums destined for cold-weather projects are moved to a heated bay at 25 degrees Celsius for 48 hours before loading to restore pumpable viscosity without diluent addition.

Trade Bitumen on Global Trade Plaza: bitumen asphalt on Global Trade Plaza, bitumen asphalt suppliers and exporters, bitumen asphalt buyers and importers, high quality bitumen 60.

Related reading: Top 10 B2B Websites to Buy Jet Fuel in Bulk.

Conclusion

Specifying, buying, and using MC-30 cutback bitumen requires alignment across four decision points. First, grade selection must match the project climate zone; MC-30 suits cool or humid regions where slower solvent evaporation prevents premature crusting, while warmer zones typically shift to MC-70 or MC-250. Second, prime-coat procedure adherence determines pavement life; spray rates between 0.6 and 1.2 liters per square meter, calibrated distributor nozzles, and full solvent cure before overlay placement are non-negotiable. Third, regulatory compliance mapping covers transport classification under UN 1999, SDS localization for the destination country, and REACH or TSCA registration where applicable. Fourth, total-cost transparency demands a landed-price model that adds drum or bitutainer surcharges, demurrage buffers, and solvent-loss contingency to the index-linked bitumen base. Procurement teams that lock these variables into the purchase order reduce rework claims and customs delays. For a broader view of how MC-30 fits within the full range of road-surfacing binders, see the Petroleum Products for Road Surfacing guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

what bitumen mc300

MC-300 is a medium-curing cutback bitumen with a kinematic viscosity range of 300 to 600 cSt at 60 °C per ASTM D2028. It uses a heavier kerosene cutter stock than MC-30, resulting in slower evaporation and a longer curing window suited for cooler climates or denser bases. The residue must meet minimum penetration and ductility requirements after solvent loss.

how bitumen mc300

MC-300 is manufactured by blending 60/70 or 80/100 penetration-grade bitumen with 15 to 25 percent straight-run kerosene to reach the target viscosity. The mixture is heated and agitated in a closed tank until homogeneous, then tested for ASTM D2170 viscosity and D402 distillation cuts. It is shipped at temperatures below the flash point in insulated tankers.

bitumen mc30 requirements pdf

The authoritative requirements are published in ASTM D2028, which is a copyrighted standard available for purchase from ASTM International. Many national standards bodies such as BSI or DIN adopt it as BS EN 15322 or DIN EN 15322. Procurement teams typically request the Certificate of Analysis referencing these exact test methods.

bitumen mc30 requirements in europe

In Europe, MC-30 compliance is verified against EN 15322 which harmonizes the ASTM D2028 limits for viscosity, distillation, and residue properties. The CE marking under the Construction Products Regulation requires a Declaration of Performance referencing the harmonized standard. Eurobitume member producers issue DoPs based on factory production control and initial type testing.

bitumen mc30 requirements in germany

Germany adopts EN 15322 as DIN EN 15322 and additionally references TL Bitumen-StB 07 for highway prime coats, which mandates specific application rates and ambient temperature limits. Federal state road authorities (Landesstraßenbauverwaltungen) may require a Ü-Zeichen conformity mark from a notified body. The product must also satisfy dangerous goods transport rules under ADR for UN 1999.

bitumen mc30 documents pdf

Essential documents include the Certificate of Analysis (CoA) listing all ASTM D2028 or EN 15322 test results, the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) per REACH/CLP, and the Declaration of Performance (DoP) for CE marking. For international shipments, a dangerous goods declaration for UN 1999 Class 3 PG III and a bill of lading with flash point notation are mandatory.

bitumen mc30 documents required

Buyers must receive a Certificate of Analysis covering viscosity, distillation cuts, residue penetration, ductility, and solubility. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) compliant with the destination country’s GHS implementation is legally required before handling. For EU entry, a Declaration of Performance and REACH registration number for the solvent component complete the regulatory pack.

mc30 bitumen price

MC-30 pricing is quoted per metric tonne ex-works or FOB port and tracks the underlying penetration-grade bitumen index plus the kerosene cutter premium. Regional freight, drum versus bulk packaging, and dangerous goods surcharges for UN 1999 Class 3 transport cause significant variation between suppliers. Current offers should be requested directly from licensed producers or traders.

is bitumen expensive

Bitumen cost is driven by crude oil benchmarks, refinery yield, and logistics rather than the material itself being inherently expensive. Cutback grades like MC-30 carry a 15 to 30 percent premium over straight-run penetration bitumen due to the kerosene fraction and hazardous transport classification. Bulk supply reduces unit cost significantly compared to drummed product.

bitumen mc30 costs

Total landed cost for MC-30 includes the base bitumen index, kerosene cutter differential, blending charge, packaging (bulk, 200 L drums, or 1 t tote), and ADR transport surcharges. Storage tank heating and nitrogen blanketing to prevent solvent loss add operational expense. Volume contracts typically lock the bitumen component to a monthly index like Argus or Platts.

bitumen mc3000

MC-3000 is the highest viscosity medium-curing cutback grade at 3000 to 6000 cSt at 60 °C, containing minimal kerosene cutter stock. It cures over several days and is used for cold mix stockpiles, patching mixes, or surface treatments where slow solvent evaporation is required. The residue penetration range is typically 120 to 250 at 25 °C after full curing.

mc30 bitumen application

MC-30 is spray-applied as a prime coat on prepared granular bases at 0.9 to 1.4 L/m² using a calibrated distributor bar set 300 to 450 mm above the surface. Nozzles are angled 15 to 30 degrees with pump pressure at 150 to 300 kPa for uniform coverage. Application is prohibited below 10 °C ambient or 5 °C base temperature; curing takes 4 to 8 hours in dry conditions before traffic return.

Sources

• Eurobitume (2022): World bitumen consumption
• Trendeconomy (UN Comtrade data) (2023): World petroleum bitumen exports (HS 271320)