What is the difference between Bitumen and Asphalt?

The terms asphalt and bitumen are often mistaken to define the same thing. However, these two are very different. Asphalt is a composite of sand, aggregates, and bitumen. In asphalt, bitumen is used as a binding material that holds together the asphalt, therefore asphalt is a concrete mixture whereas bitumen is a binder or cement for pavements. If you're looking to resurface your driveway or pavement, you'll want to know if asphalt or bitumen is the best option. So, what is the difference between bitumen and asphalt?

skid resistant

Asphalt pavement is smoother and considered more skid-resistant. This ensures driver safety and reduces noise, which is why they are used on highways and roads. Bitumen surfaces are better suited to slower-moving traffic and walking paths because they allow for a noisier driving experience and tend to wear down tires, contributing to safety issues.

Level of friction

Asphalt lowers friction between the vehicle and the tires, resulting in higher fuel efficiency and reduced emissions of carbon dioxide. Bitumen, creates greater friction resistance, resulting in lower fuel consumption. A bitumen pavement with higher frictional resistance will have a lower energy usage efficiency.

Durability

Another difference between bitumen and asphalt is in durability. Asphalt pavements are more durable, with a layer depth of 22 to 40mm and a lifespan of more than 20 years. Bitumen-sealed surfaces or pavements, on the other hand, are thought to be less durable. They have a layer depth of 10 to 20 millimeters and a lifespan of 5 to 10 years.

However, the location of the surface and its intended usage must be considered. Bitumen is a wonderful, low-cost choice for low- and slow-traffic locations. The asphalt investment is more warranted for more hard-wearing surfaces such as roads, motorways, and mining roadways because of its better durability.

Temperature sensitivity

Asphalt is less sensitive to temperature, it might have negative impacts in extremely cold or hot temperatures. Bitumen surfaces are susceptible to extreme temperatures. This can cause them to become soft and slick, weather conditions must be addressed when deciding between asphalt and bitumen.

Permeability

Asphalt is a substance that is moisture resistant. Because asphalt pavement does not leach, there is less danger of infiltration and polluting of underground water. It is possible for bitumen to leach, resulting in soil deterioration and groundwater pollution.

Installation cost

If you're seeking a low-cost material, bitumen should be your first choice. Asphalt pavements are more expensive to install, but they do not require routine maintenance, only routine inspections. Bitumen, on the other hand, is less expensive to install, but it will require regular maintenance, which will raise the long-term cost. The pavements will need to be resurfaced, especially if they receive a lot of traffic. Bitumen is not a long-term answer, but it is a cost-effective one in the near term.

Finally, the decision between bitumen and asphalt will be based on the circumstances of the installation, such as money, location, and usefulness. If you have a limited budget, bitumen is likely the best choice because it costs around half as much as full asphalt, whereas asphalt is more expensive but more resilient and long-lasting. Bitumen is ideal for low- or slow-traffic locations such as car parks and driveways, whereas asphalt is the preferred material for motorways, roadways, and high-traffic regions.