Description of Polymer Modified Bitumen Emulsion(PMBE)
Polymer Modified Bitumen Emulsion (PMBE) is a specially engineered emulsion in which bitumen is modified with high-performance polymers and dispersed in water using emulsifying agents. This advanced formulation enhances the physical and mechanical properties of conventional bitumen emulsions, delivering superior performance in both paving and waterproofing applications.
PMBE combines the elasticity of polymers with the adhesion and waterproofing ability of bitumen, resulting in a product that performs exceptionally well under diverse climatic and traffic conditions.
Technical Overview
- Base Material: Bitumen (modified with polymers such as SBS, SBR, or EVA)
- Appearance: Dark brown to black viscous liquid
- Type: Cationic / Anionic (depending on application)
- Solid Content: Typically 60–70%
- Viscosity: High consistency with superior stability
- Storage Stability: Excellent (maintains uniform dispersion)
Key Features & Advantages
- Enhanced Elasticity and Flexibility – Maintains structural integrity in both hot and cold climates.
- Excellent Adhesion – Provides strong bonding to aggregates and surfaces, even in wet conditions.
- Superior Resistance – Protects against rutting, fatigue cracking, stripping, and water damage.
- Longer Service Life – Extends pavement durability and reduces maintenance costs.
- Environmentally Friendly – Water-based, low emissions, and safe to handle.
Applications of Polymer Modified Bitumen Emulsion(PMBE)
- Road Construction & Maintenance:
Used in surface dressing, tack coating, slurry sealing, and micro-surfacing. - Cold Mix Asphalt:
Suitable for producing polymer-enhanced cold asphalt mixtures with improved flexibility. - Waterproofing Membranes:
Applied in building foundations, bridge decks, and tunnel linings for strong waterproof protection. - Pavement Rehabilitation:
Ideal for rejuvenation and repair works in both urban and highway projects.
Packaging & Storage
- Supplied in 200 kg drums, 1,000-liter IBC tanks, or in bulk via bitutainers or tank trucks.
- Store in cool, shaded areas away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid freezing; stir gently before use to ensure homogeneity.
Specifications of Polymer Modified Bitumen Emulsion
| PROPERTIES | VALUES | TEST STANDARDS |
| Color | Dark brown | – |
| Form | Thixotropic viscous liquid |
– |
| Density @25°C, [g/cc] |
1.05±0.05 | ASTM D 1475 |
| Solid content, [%by wt] |
>65 | ASTM D 2939 |
| Tensile strength, [N/mm2] |
>0.2 | ASTM D 412 |
| Elongation, [%] | >1000 | ASTM D 412 |
| Rubber content, [%] | >15 on the dried film |
ASTM D 297 |
| Recovery, [%] | 100 | ASTM D 412 |
| Peel adhesion strength [N/mm] |
>4 | ASTM D 903 |
| Heat resistance@100°C | no flow | ASTM D 2939 |
| Low temperature flexibility, [°C] |
≤ -10 | ASTM D 5147 |
| Water vapor transmission, [g/m2/24 hours] |
<0.2 | ASTM E 96 |
| Drying time @25°C, [min] |
60 | – |
| Application temperature [°C] |
5 to 55 | DIN EN 52123 |
| Service temperature [°C] |
-5 to 100 | – |
| VOC [g/l] | <50 | ASTM D 3960/D 2369 |
