Bitumen Density
Understanding liquid binder mass-to-volume relationships and thermal density variations.
Critical Engineering Distinction: Bitumen vs. Asphalt Density
Bitumen Density refers strictly to the pure hydrocarbon liquid binder (typically 1010 to 1040 kg/m³ at 15°C).
Asphalt Mix Density refers to the compacted aggregate-binder composite (typically 2300 to 2450 kg/m³). Do not substitute binder density into asphalt pavement tonnage calculations.
Bitumen Binder Density Unit Converter
Convert liquid bitumen binder density across scientific and engineering units.
Bitumen Density & Temperature Dependence
Bitumen expands significantly when heated. Standard laboratory density tests (ASTM D70 / EN 15326) report specific gravity at 15°C or 25°C. When pumping hot binder at application temperatures (150°C to 180°C), thermal expansion reduces liquid density by approximately 6% to 8%.
| Bitumen Grade / State | Standard Temp (°C) | Typical Density (kg/m³) |
|---|---|---|
| Penetration Grade (VG-30 / 60/70) | 15°C | 1020 – 1040 |
| Polymer Modified Bitumen (PMB) | 15°C | 1015 – 1035 |
| Hot Liquid Binder Stream | 160°C | 930 – 960 |