
Description
C600 is a paving grade bitumen manufactured to AS 2008 Table 2.2 and is primarily suitable for use in high modulus
basecourse asphalts.
Summary of benefits
The Viva standards to which C600 bitumen is made result in a very consistent bitumen with predictable handling and performance characteristics
Applications of Bitumen C600
C600 bitumen is the hardest paving grade bitumen available in Australia and is mainly used to produce high modulus
asphalt. Heavy duty asphalt pavements need to be designed to accommodate significant traffic loadings for up to 40
years without exhibiting structural failure and hence, need to be constructed using appropriate materials. The load
spreading characteristics of pavement layers are governed by their stiffness and C600 bitumen facilitates the production of high modulus asphalt.
- Road Construction and Maintenance
Paving Roads: Bitumen C600 is commonly used in the construction of highways, roads, and streets where high durability is required due to its high viscosity and excellent load-bearing capacity.
Heavy-Duty Pavements: Its properties make it suitable for heavy traffic zones, such as highways and industrial areas, where regular wear and tear occur.
Road Repairs: Bitumen C600 is used for resurfacing damaged roads or patching potholes due to its strong adhesive properties and resistance to weather conditions. - Waterproofing Applications
Roofing Systems: Used in waterproofing materials, especially in flat roofs and membranes. Bitumen C600 provides excellent water resistance and can be used in roofing felt or coatings.
Foundation Waterproofing: Applied to foundations to prevent water penetration into buildings, especially in basements or underground structures. - Industrial Coatings and Sealants
Protective Coatings: Due to its high viscosity, Bitumen C600 is often used in industrial coatings to protect steel structures and equipment from corrosion and environmental wear.
Sealants: Applied as a sealant in various industrial applications, providing excellent bonding to surfaces, especially in joints, cracks, and seams. - Electrical Insulation
Cables and Wires: Bitumen C600 is used in the manufacturing of cable coatings and insulation, particularly in environments where extra protection from water or heat is required.
Transformers and Switchgear: It is used in insulation for electrical components to ensure safety and prevent leakage. - Adhesives
Construction Adhesives: Bitumen C600 is utilized in producing strong construction adhesives, particularly in projects where high bonding strength is necessary.
Carpet and Flooring Adhesives: Used as a base for adhesives in flooring applications, providing flexibility and high bonding strength. - Asphalt Production for Heavy-Duty Applications
Asphalt for Airports: Due to its resistance to high temperatures and heavy loads, Bitumen C600 is often used in the production of asphalt for airports and other industrial facilities.
High-Temperature Zones: Ideal for areas where high temperature resistance is required, such as in desert areas or high-traffic road zones. - Manufacturing of Modified Bitumen Products
Crumb Rubber Modified Bitumen (CRMB): Bitumen C600 serves as the base for the modification process with crumb rubber, resulting in enhanced performance in extreme weather conditions.
Polymer-Modified Bitumen (PMB): Used as a base for polymer-modified bitumen, improving the durability, elasticity, and overall lifespan of the bitumen. - Water Infrastructure
Dam Sealing: Bitumen C600 is applied in the construction and maintenance of dams and reservoirs to provide water-tight seals and prevent water leakage.
Canal Linings: Often used to line canals and water retention areas, offering a reliable water barrier.
Key Benefits in Applications:
- High Durability: Ideal for high-stress applications, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Water and Weather Resistance: Provides excellent protection against moisture and weather conditions, making it suitable for outdoor and industrial uses.
- Excellent Adhesion: Ensures strong bonding to a variety of surfaces, which is critical in applications like waterproofing and sealants.
| Mixing Temperature | Holding time at Mixing Temperature | Medium term storage temperature | Medium term storage time | Maximum safe handling temperature |
| 175 – 185°C | 14 days | 130-150°C | 30 days | 190°C |
Health & safety
Asphalt C600 is unlikely to present any significant health or safety hazard when properly used in the recommended
application where good standards of industrial practice are maintained.
Bitumen C600 Specifications
|
DESCRIPTION |
UNIT |
MIN |
MAX |
TEST METHOD |
|
Viscosity at 60° C |
Pa.s |
500 |
700 |
AS2341-2 |
|
Viscosity at 135° C |
Pa.s |
0.6 |
0.85 |
AS2341.4 |
|
Penetration 100g, 5s @ 25°C (p.u) |
mm |
20 |
– |
AS2341.12 |
|
Binder Density @ 15°C |
kg/m3 |
1000 |
– |
AS2341.7 |
|
Matter Insoluble in Toluene |
% |
– |
1 |
AS2341.8 |
|
Flash Point, Cleveland Open Cup |
°C |
250 |
– |
ASTM D92 |
|
Viscosity at 60° C (% of the original After RTFO treatment |
% |
– |
300 |
AS2341.10 | AS231.2 |



