
Bitumen Emulsion Coating – Description
Bitumen emulsion coating is a liquid waterproofing and protective material consisting of finely dispersed bitumen particles suspended in water with the help of an emulsifying agent. This type of coating is widely used in construction, roadworks, and industrial applications due to its excellent adhesion, durability, and resistance to water and chemicals.
Key Features of Bitumen Emulsion Coating
- Water-Based & Eco-Friendly – Contains no harmful solvents, making it safer for the environment and easy to handle.
- Excellent Adhesion – Bonds well with concrete, metal, wood, and masonry surfaces.
- Superior Waterproofing – Forms a strong barrier against water penetration, preventing leaks and moisture damage.
- Highly Flexible – Can withstand surface movements and minor cracks without breaking or peeling.
- Corrosion Protection – Protects metal structures from rust and degradation.
- UV Resistance (Modified Types) – Certain formulations include UV stabilizers for improved durability in exposed conditions.
- Chemical Resistance – Provides strong resistance against acids, alkalis, and salts, making it ideal for industrial use.
- Easy Application – Can be applied using a brush, roller, or spray, ensuring a smooth and uniform finish.
- Quick Drying – Dries faster than traditional bitumen coatings, reducing downtime in construction projects.
- Cost-Effective – Offers long-term protection with minimal maintenance, making it an economical waterproofing solution.
Applications of bitumen emulsion coating
- Waterproofing & Damp-Proofing:
– Basements & Foundations: Protects underground structures from water ingress and soil moisture.
– Roofs & Terraces: Provides a seamless waterproof layer to prevent leaks.
– Wet Areas (Bathrooms, Kitchens, Swimming Pools): Prevents moisture penetration in interior surfaces. - Road & Pavement Protection:
– Tack Coat for Asphalt Layers: Enhances bonding between asphalt layers in road construction.
– Crack Sealing & Repair: Used to seal small cracks and prevent water from seeping into roads and pavements. - Bridge & Tunnel Protection:
– Bridge Decks: Provides an effective waterproofing barrier against rain and de-icing salts.
– Underground Tunnels: Prevents water seepage and enhances structural durability. - Corrosion Protection:
– Metal Pipes & Structures: Prevents rust and corrosion in pipelines, steel structures, and storage tanks.
– Marine & Coastal Structures: Protects against saltwater exposure and environmental degradation. - Industrial & Commercial Applications:
– Storage Tanks & Silos: Prevents water and chemical damage to storage facilities.
– Insulation Coating: Acts as a protective layer for thermal and sound insulation materials. - Concrete Surface Protection:
– Retaining Walls: Prevents water absorption and structural deterioration.
– Parking Garages & Industrial Floors: Enhances durability and resistance to chemical spills.
- General Waterproofing: concrete, brick, bitumen & mastic asphalt membranes, asbestos cement, slates, tiles, lead copper, zinc, corrugated iron and similar surfaces.
- Wet Area Waterproofing: toilet, kitchen, balconies, walls, planter box, insulation protection, etc.
- Metal Protection: against pipe corrosion, structural steelwork, gutting and down pipes, shed walls water tanks, troughs, metal fence posts, garden frames windmill frames, drums, outdoor machinery and other metallic equipment.
PREPARATION
- Surfaces must be clean, dry and free of dirt, grease, oil or water.
- Repair cracks, breaks, open seams with a heavy sealer such as VT-500 Vital Mortar.
- Prepare porous surfaces by priming with diluting 1:1 ratio with water; treat with fibre mesh before it dry.

APPLICATION DIRECTION
- Stir well before use.
- Apply at the rate of 1.33 litre/m2 by brush, roller, or soft bloom.
- For best results apply two coats, with the first coat allowed to dry before applying the second coat at the right angles on the first coat.
- Each coat should exceed 1 mm thickness and allow at least 4 hours for single coat to dry. Drying time may vary depending upon wet film thickness, temperature, humidity and air movement.
- 5. For reinforcement purpose, an open woven glass fibre may be incorporated onto uncured first coat and apply the second coat before it is completely dry.
- All wet material, tools, and equipment may be cleaned with water. Rinse tools and equipment with water before use. Clean with water when wet, but with white spirit when dry.
- Protect the coating surfaces from frost and rain until fully cured. The maximum durability is obtained if the coating is left 2-3 days for full curing before apply any protective coating on top.
Packing of Bitumen Emulsion Coating
- 4.5 KG – Pail (4/ carton)
- 18 KG – Pail
- 20 KG – Pail
- 200 KG – Drum
Storage of Bitumen Emulsion Coating
Proper storage of bitumen emulsion coating is essential to maintain its quality and effectiveness. Follow these guidelines to ensure optimal performance:
Storage Temperature:
– Store under cover, in dry and cool place with temperature below +25°C. Protect from freezing
Avoid exposure to extreme heat, as it may cause premature breakdown of the emulsion.
Avoid Direct Sunlight:
Store in a cool, shaded area away from direct sunlight to prevent degradation.
Prevent Freezing:
– Freezing can damage the emulsion structure, making it unusable. Store in a temperature-controlled environment during cold seasons.
Use Sealed Containers:
– Keep containers tightly closed to prevent contamination and evaporation.
– Use plastic or corrosion-resistant drums to avoid chemical reactions with metal.
Avoid Contamination:
Ensure storage tanks, drums, or containers are clean and free from dirt, oil, or other impurities.
Do not mix with other chemicals, solvents, or incompatible materials.
Stir Before Use:
– If stored for an extended period, stir or agitate the emulsion before use to restore uniform consistency.
Shelf Life:
– Typically, bitumen emulsions have a shelf life of 6 to 12 months when stored properly.
– Always check for signs of separation, thickening, or spoilage before application.
Safety Precautions:
– Store in a well-ventilated area.
– Keep away from open flames or high heat sources, although bitumen emulsion is water-based and has lower flammability compared to solvent-based coatings.
Technical Data Sheet of Bitumen Emulsion Coating
| Specific Gravity | 1.00 ± 0.03 | |
| Solid | 47 – 55% | |
| pH (25°C) | 8 – 11 | |
| Thermal Conductivity, K Value | 0.69 W/ mK (2mm thickness) | ASTM E1530-06 |
| Thermal Resistance, R Value | 3.22eˉ³m².K/W | ASTM E1530-06 |
| Solubility in water | Emulsifiable |
Technical Data Sheet of Bitumen Emulsion Coating



