People frequently use the terms bitumen and asphalt interchangeably. These two, however, are very different. Asphalt is a compound composed of sand, particles, and bitumen. Bitumen is used as a binder in asphalt to hold the asphalt together, hence asphalt is a concrete mixture, whereas bitumen is a binder or cement for pavements.
It’s also usual to see a pavement surface that has merely been sealed with bitumen. If you wish to resurface your driveway or pavement, you should choose the best option between asphalt and bitumen. So, what is the distinction?
- Skid Resistance:
Asphalt pavements are smoother and considered more skid resistant. This improves driving safety and reduces noise, which is why they are utilized on highways and roads. Bitumen is different from asphalt as the surfaces are louder to drive on and tend to wear out tyres, leading to safety hazards, therefore they are better suited to slower moving traffic and pedestrian pathways.
- Permeability
Asphalt is a substance that is impermeable. Asphalt pavements do not leach, thus there is less danger of infiltration and polluting of subsurface water. It is possible for bitumen to leach, resulting in soil degradation and groundwater contamination.
- Durability
Asphalt pavements are more durable than bitumen since they have a layer depth of 22 to 40mm and may survive for more than 20 years. Bitumen-sealed surfaces or pavements, on the other hand, are regarded as less durable. They have a layer depth of 10 to 20mm and a lifetime of 5 to 10 years. So, if you’re thinking of paving your surfaces, asphalt may be a more durable option than a bitumen-sealed surface.
- Weather sensitive
Asphalt is less temperature sensitive, generating detrimental effects in extreme cold or high temperatures. Bitumen surfaces as compared to asphalt are prone to severe temperatures, which can cause them to become mushy and slippery, therefore weather conditions must be considered while deciding between asphalt and bitumen.
- Affordable
If you’re seeking a low-cost material, bitumen should be your first pick. Asphalt pavements are more expensive to install than bitumen, but they do not require frequent maintenance, only routine check-ups. Bitumen, on the other hand, is less expensive to install; but, it will require frequent maintenance, which will raise the long-term cost. Pavements will need to be resurfaced, especially if they are heavily used. Bitumen is not a long-term answer, but rather a short-term remedy in the long run.
Finally, the decision between bitumen and asphalt will be determined by the circumstances of the installation, including money, location, and usefulness. If your budget is limited, bitumen is likely the best alternative because it is half the price of complete asphalt, whereas asphalt is more expensive but more robust and long-lasting. Bitumen is ideal for low traffic or slow traffic locations such as car parks and driveways, whereas asphalt is ideal for highways, roadways, and heavy traffic areas.
What differentiates asphalt from bitumen is clear, but what differentiates your decision making depends on the above factors, so analyse your condition wisely before making a decision.