Bitumen in Abu Dhabi

Bitumen

Bitumen or asphalt is a sticky black (or brown) liquid or semi-solid substance, which has a high viscosity. This substance is a form of petroleum found in natural deposits or a refined by-product of crude oil processing, classified as a pitch. In the early 20th century and before, asphalt or bitumen was commonly known as asphaltum, which was derived from asphaltos, an ancient Greek word. Its primary applications include its use in the construction of roads, which makes up more than 70% of its total applications. Asphalt, commonly known as tar in road construction, is used as a bending mix to bind aggregates to form asphalt concrete. Its other common applications include sealing flat roofs, waterproofing, and in the manufacturing process of roof felt.

Bitumen or Asphalt is basically of two types, naturally occurring- also referred to as crude asphalt, and refined- refined asphalt which is a by-product of the crude oil treatment process. Although both asphalt and bitumen are used in reference to both forms of the substance, natural and refined, asphalt is the refined residue from crude oil distillation. Naturally occurring asphalt has the same viscosity as cold molasses and is called crude tar, while refined asphalt is formed as a by-product during the fractional distillation of crude oil.

Today, Bitumen is used for various applications, the most common of which being rolled asphalt concrete, used in the construction of roads and road surfaces. Some of its other applications include an asphalt emulsion that is used in the construction of low-cost pavements, synthetic and non-upgraded crude oil, mastic asphalt - used in the construction sector as a waterproofing agent to waterproof flat roofs, in the production of marker ink and paints - to improve their water resistance, to waterproof fabric, and in fence-post treatment.

Bitumen suppliers in the Abu Dhabi and across the UAE cater to various industrial sectors from construction and contracting to paint manufacturers and public works. In Abu Dhabi, Bitumen suppliers are required to meet high regulations regarding the standard of bitumen and asphalt products. They operate out of facilities, storage houses, and offices that are easily accessible, in the Industrial Area like Corniche Road in Mussafah M2, Abu Dhabi.