SBS Modified Bitumen

The basic process used to modify asphalt cement with polymers (primarily SBS polymer) is to introduce both liquid asphalt cement and polymer pellets into a heated mixing (or wetting) tank, where they are mixed and the polymer is softened. The mixture is then pumped out through a mill (or grinder) into a storage tank. This mixture is usually made at a higher concentration (about 8% to 12% by weight) than the finished product to minimize the energy required. At this stage, a chemical additive (cross-linker) is added to chemically finish the chemical bonding. The mixture is then transferred to a finished product tank, where it is diluted to the final concentration (about 2% to 2.5%).

Our blending technology utilizes the Modified Asphalt Contactor™ reactor for the mixing tank. The higher effective blending and heating capabilities will allow milling to be accomplished in a single pass, eliminating the need for multiple passes. This will result in significant energy savings due to the large motor of the mill (typically 200-300 HP), which would otherwise be operated for three to six times longer. This also would result in reduced processing time