MERCO is the biggest Bitumen cut-back manufacturing facility in the Kingdom of Bahrain
Bitumen 120/150 — Soft Penetration Grade for Flexible Pavements
Bitumen 120/150 — Soft Penetration Grade for Flexible Pavements
Bitumen 120/150 is a high-quality soft penetration grade bitumen specifically engineered for applications requiring superior flexibility, enhanced workability, and resistance to cracking in cooler and moderate climates. With a higher penetration value, this grade offers greater elasticity compared to harder grades, making it ideal for flexible pavement systems and surface treatments where adaptability is essential.
Key Characteristics
- Penetration Range: 120–150 dmm at 25°C
- High Elasticity: Excellent flexibility to accommodate pavement movement
- Superior Workability: Smooth mixing and uniform coating of aggregates
- Strong Adhesion: Reliable bonding strength for stable asphalt layers
- Crack Resistance: Reduces risk of thermal and fatigue cracking
- Thermal Adaptability: Performs efficiently in cooler and temperate regions
- Aging Stability: Maintains performance under prolonged environmental exposure
- Moisture Resistance: Minimizes water penetration and structural damage
Applications
Bitumen 120/150 is commonly used in projects requiring enhanced flexibility and adaptability, including:
- Road construction in cooler climates
- Low to medium traffic roads
- Surface dressing and spray applications
- Asphalt concrete production
- Pavement base and binder courses
- Rural and municipal road networks
- Maintenance and rehabilitation works
- Light industrial paving
Its softer consistency makes it particularly suitable for regions where pavements are exposed to temperature fluctuations that may cause cracking in harder grades.
Technical Quality Parameters
To ensure consistent performance and compliance with international standards, Bitumen 120/150 undergoes rigorous laboratory testing, including:
- Penetration test at 25°C
- Softening point analysis
- Ductility testing
- Flash point determination
- Specific gravity measurement
- Loss on heating evaluation
- Solubility and purity verification
These quality control measures guarantee reliable and uniform product characteristics for every batch supplied.
Packaging & Supply Options
To meet diverse project and export requirements, Bitumen 120/150 is available in:
- Bulk tanker delivery
- New steel drum packaging
- Jumbo bags (1 MT bitumen bags)
- Flexitank containers
- Break bulk and vessel shipments
Customized logistics solutions are available to support regional and international projects.
Storage & Handling
For optimal product performance and safety:
- Store in dry, clean, and well-ventilated areas
- Maintain recommended heating temperature during storage and application
- Avoid excessive overheating to preserve material properties
- Use insulated tanks for bulk storage and transportation
Proper handling ensures consistent viscosity and reliable application performance.
Health, Safety & Environmental Considerations
When handling Bitumen 120/150:
- Use appropriate protective equipment during heating and application
- Prevent direct contact with hot material
- Ensure proper ventilation in operational areas
- Follow local environmental and transportation regulations
- Dispose of residues responsibly according to compliance standards