Oxidized Bitumen for Rubber and Tire Manufacturing

Oxidized bitumen, also known as blown bitumen or blown asphalt, is a specially modified form of petroleum bitumen produced by blowing controlled quantities of air through heated bitumen. This oxidation process increases the softening point, reduces penetration, and gives the material greater thermal stability and a more rubber-like consistency.

In the rubber industry, oxidized bitumen can be used as an industrial binder, processing aid, filler-binder, waterproofing component, damping material, and formulation modifier, depending on the rubber compound and final product.

Oxidized bitumen is particularly interesting for manufacturers of rubber sheets, rubber mats, industrial rubber products, automotive components, vibration-damping materials, cable compounds, rubberized waterproofing products and selected tire-related formulations.

The suitability of a particular grade depends on the formulation, processing temperature, required hardness, flexibility, compatibility with polymers and fillers, and the final application.

What Is Oxidized Bitumen?

Oxidized bitumen is manufactured by passing air through heated petroleum bitumen under controlled conditions. The oxidation reaction changes the physical characteristics of the original bitumen and produces a material with a higher softening point and lower penetration.

Oxidized bitumen grades are normally identified by two numbers. The first number represents the approximate softening-point range, while the second represents the penetration range.

For example:

Oxidized Bitumen 85/40

• Softening point: approximately 85°C
• Penetration: approximately 40 dmm

The relationship between softening point and penetration is important when selecting oxidized bitumen for rubber processing because the manufacturer needs to balance thermal resistance, hardness, flexibility and processability.

Industrial references identify rubber processing as one of the applications of oxidized bitumen, alongside coatings, roofing, electrical insulation and other industrial uses.

Why Is Oxidized Bitumen Used in Rubber Manufacturing?

Rubber compounds are normally formulated from several materials rather than a single raw material. Depending on the product, these can include natural rubber, synthetic rubber, carbon black, silica, oils, sulfur, accelerators, antioxidants, processing aids, resins and other specialty ingredients.

Oxidized bitumen may be incorporated into selected formulations when the manufacturer needs properties such as:

• Improved binding between formulation components
• Increased compound hardness
• Better thermal stability
• Water resistance
• Adhesion
• Vibration damping
• Improved resistance to flow at elevated temperatures
• Modification of compound processing characteristics
• Cost optimization in suitable non-critical formulations
• Improved flexibility or toughness when the correct grade is selected

However, oxidized bitumen is not a universal replacement for natural or synthetic rubber. Its role should be evaluated through laboratory compounding and performance testing.

Oxidized Bitumen Grades Used in Rubber and Tire-Related Applications

Different oxidized bitumen grades can provide significantly different performance characteristics.

For rubber applications, manufacturers generally need to consider both softening point and penetration, rather than selecting a grade based only on its name.

Oxidized Bitumen 75/35

75/35 is among the relatively softer oxidized grades. Its combination of moderate softening point and relatively higher penetration can make it useful where greater flexibility and processability are required.

Potential applications include:

• Rubber compounds
• Rubberized materials
• Damping compounds
• Industrial rubber products
• Adhesive rubber formulations
• Flexible waterproofing products

Oxidized Bitumen 85/40

Oxidized Bitumen 85/40 offers a useful balance between hardness, thermal resistance and flexibility.

It can be considered for:

• Rubber processing
• Rubberized coatings
• Industrial rubber compounds
• Automotive applications
• Damping materials
• Sealants
• Waterproof rubber products

The grade is also documented in industrial applications involving rubber and plastic products.

Oxidized Bitumen 85/25

85/25 is harder than 85/40 because of its lower penetration. It may therefore be considered when the formulation requires greater body and resistance to deformation.

Potential applications include:

• Industrial rubber compounds
• Rubber sheets
• Rubberized coatings
• Sealants
• Automotive underbody compounds
• Protective rubber-bitumen products

Oxidized Bitumen 90/15

90/15 provides a higher softening point and relatively low penetration. It is consequently more suitable for formulations where increased hardness and resistance to elevated temperatures are important.

Potential applications include:

• High-temperature industrial compounds
• Rubberized sealants
• Protective coatings
• Automotive applications
• Specialized rubber products

Oxidized Bitumen 95/25 and Other Harder Grades

Higher-softening-point grades such as 95/25, 105/35, 105/15 and 115/15 may be considered for specialized formulations requiring higher thermal resistance and dimensional stability.

However, harder grades are not automatically better for tire or rubber production. A very hard oxidized bitumen can negatively affect flexibility, low-temperature performance or processing if it is not compatible with the formulation.

Industrial references list numerous oxidized grades, including 75/35, 85/25, 85/40, 95/25, 105/35 and 115/15, with applications varying according to the required physical properties.

Comparison of Oxidized Bitumen Grades for Rubber Applications

Grade	Approx. Softening Point	Relative Penetration	Relative Hardness	Potential Rubber Application
75/35	~75°C	Higher	Lower	Flexible rubber compounds, damping, rubberized products
85/40	~85°C	Higher	Medium	Rubber compounds, automotive products, sealants
85/25	~85°C	Medium	Medium-high	Industrial rubber, sheets, coatings
90/15	~90°C	Low	High	Heat-resistant compounds and sealants
95/25	~95°C	Medium	High	Specialized industrial rubber applications
105/35	~105°C	Higher	High	High-temperature industrial formulations
115/15	~115°C	Low	Very high	Specialized high-temperature applications

Actual specification ranges should be confirmed using the supplier’s TDS and the customer’s required standard. Grade suitability should also be validated by the rubber compound manufacturer.

Applications of Oxidized Bitumen in the Rubber Industry

Rubber Compound Manufacturing

Oxidized bitumen can be incorporated into selected rubber compounds as a formulation component or processing modifier.

Its relatively high softening point and low temperature susceptibility can be useful when the finished compound needs to maintain its physical characteristics over a broad temperature range.

Rubber Sheets and Mats

Oxidized bitumen may be used in certain rubberized sheet and mat formulations where properties such as:

• Water resistance
• Adhesion
• Flexibility
• Damping
• Thermal stability

are required.

This can be relevant to industrial mats, protective sheets and specialized rubberized products.

Vibration and Sound-Damping Products

The viscoelastic behavior of bituminous materials makes them useful in certain sound-damping and vibration-control formulations.

Applications can include:

• Automotive damping sheets
• Vehicle underbody materials
• Industrial vibration-control products
• Acoustic materials
• Machinery damping components

Automotive Rubber Products

Automotive manufacturers use a wide variety of rubber and rubberized materials.

Depending on the formulation, oxidized bitumen can be incorporated into products such as:

• Underbody protection materials
• Sealing compounds
• Damping materials
• Protective coatings
• Rubberized insulation products

Some oxidized bitumen grades are specifically described for automotive undercoating because of their waterproofing, dust-proofing and sound-damping characteristics.

Tire and Tire-Related Applications

The use of oxidized bitumen in tire manufacturing must be formulation-specific.

Tire compounds require carefully controlled mechanical, thermal and dynamic properties. Therefore, oxidized bitumen should not be regarded as a standard substitute for conventional tire polymers, carbon black, silica, process oils or specialty resins.

Instead, it may have potential in selected tire-related or rubber-compounding applications where the manufacturer requires:

• Binding properties
• Damping
• Adhesion
• Controlled hardness
• Processing modification
• Water resistance
• Thermal stability

The final suitability should be determined through laboratory trials and testing of the finished rubber compound.

Products Manufactured Using Oxidized Bitumen in Rubber Applications

Oxidized bitumen can be relevant to several categories of rubber and rubberized products.

Product	Possible Role of Oxidized Bitumen	Main Desired Property
Rubber sheets	Binder/modifier	Adhesion & water resistance
Rubber mats	Formulation component	Damping & durability
Automotive damping sheets	Damping component	Vibration/noise reduction
Rubberized waterproofing	Binder	Water resistance
Industrial seals	Formulation component	Adhesion & dimensional stability
Protective rubber coatings	Binder/modifier	Protection & adhesion
Underbody compounds	Bituminous component	Waterproofing & damping
Cable compounds	Insulating/impregnating component	Insulation & protection
Specialized rubber products	Modifier/binder	Formulation-dependent
Tire-related compounds	Selected formulation component	Application-dependent

The actual function of oxidized bitumen varies significantly according to the polymer system and formulation.

Benefits of Oxidized Bitumen in Rubber Manufacturing

1. Thermal Stability

Oxidized bitumen has a higher softening point than many conventional penetration-grade bitumens. This makes appropriate grades useful in formulations exposed to elevated temperatures.

2. Water Resistance

Bitumen is inherently hydrophobic. When incorporated appropriately into rubberized products, it can contribute to resistance against water and moisture.

3. Adhesion

Oxidized bitumen can provide useful adhesive characteristics in rubberized and bituminous formulations.

4. Damping Properties

Bituminous materials can contribute to vibration and sound damping, making them relevant to automotive and industrial applications.

5. Controlled Hardness

By selecting the appropriate grade, manufacturers can adjust the balance between hardness and flexibility.

6. Resistance to Flow

Higher-softening-point grades can provide greater resistance to deformation at elevated temperatures.

7. Formulation Flexibility

The availability of different grades allows rubber manufacturers to select materials according to the desired processing and finished-product properties.

Oxidized Bitumen vs. Conventional Bitumen for Rubber Applications

Property	Oxidized Bitumen	Penetration Bitumen
Softening point	Generally higher	Generally lower
Penetration	Generally lower	Generally higher
Thermal stability	Higher	Lower to moderate
Resistance to flow	Higher	Lower
Flexibility	Grade-dependent	Generally higher
Hardness	Higher	Lower
Rubber-like behavior	Relatively pronounced	Less pronounced
Industrial applications	Extensive	More commonly paving-oriented
Rubber formulation	Selected applications	Application-dependent

Oxidized bitumen is therefore generally selected when a rubber formulation requires more thermal stability, hardness or resistance to deformation than a conventional paving-grade bitumen can provide.

Other Raw Materials Used Together with Oxidized Bitumen in Rubber Manufacturing

Oxidized bitumen is normally only one component of a larger formulation.

Depending on the final product, manufacturers may use:

• Natural rubber
• SBR (Styrene-Butadiene Rubber)
• BR (Butadiene Rubber)
• EPDM
• NBR
• Carbon black
• Silica
• Process oils
• Sulfur
• Zinc oxide
• Stearic acid
• Antioxidants
• Accelerators
• Tackifying resins
• Hydrocarbon resins
• Plasticizers
• Mineral fillers
• Specialty additives

The exact formulation depends on whether the final product is a tire, rubber sheet, sealant, damping material, hose, gasket, coating or another rubber product.

How to Select the Right Oxidized Bitumen Grade for Rubber

The correct grade should be selected according to the requirements of the finished product rather than simply choosing the highest softening point.

Important parameters include:

Softening Point

A higher softening point can improve resistance to flow and deformation at elevated temperatures.

Penetration

Penetration provides an indication of the relative hardness and consistency of the material.

Compatibility

The oxidized bitumen must be compatible with the rubber polymer, oils, resins, fillers and other additives used in the formulation.

Processing Temperature

The melting and processing behavior of the oxidized bitumen should be compatible with the manufacturing process.

Final Product Flexibility

If the rubber product must remain flexible, an excessively hard oxidized bitumen may not be appropriate.

Required Mechanical Properties

Tensile strength, elongation, hardness, abrasion resistance, compression set and dynamic properties should be considered according to the final application.

Export Markets for Oxidized Bitumen Used in Rubber Industries

Demand for oxidized bitumen is connected to industrial manufacturing, automotive production, construction, waterproofing and rubber-product manufacturing.

Potential export destinations for oxidized bitumen used in rubber-related industries include:

Asia

• China
• India
• Indonesia
• Thailand
• Vietnam
• Malaysia
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• Philippines

These markets have substantial chemical, rubber, automotive and industrial manufacturing sectors.

Middle East

• UAE
• Saudi Arabia
• Oman
• Qatar
• Iraq
• Kuwait
• Turkey

The region has demand from automotive, industrial manufacturing, construction and rubberized-product industries.

Africa

• Egypt
• Kenya
• Tanzania
• Ethiopia
• South Africa
• Nigeria
• Ghana
• Algeria
• Morocco

African markets can be relevant for imported industrial raw materials used in rubber products, waterproofing materials and construction-related manufacturing.

Europe

• Italy
• Spain
• Germany
• Poland
• Romania
• Bulgaria
• Serbia
• Greece

European customers generally require detailed technical documentation, consistent specifications and compliance with the requirements applicable to their particular end use.

Why Choose Faragam Bitumen for Oxidized Bitumen?

Faragam Bitumen supplies oxidized bitumen for international industrial applications and can support customers looking for reliable specifications, consistent quality and export-oriented supply.

For rubber and tire-related applications, Faragam Bitumen can offer grades selected according to the customer’s required:

• Softening point
• Penetration
• Application
• Packaging
• Loading requirements
• Destination market
• Technical specification
• Quality-control requirements

For industrial customers, supplying the correct TDS, MSDS and certificate of analysis (COA) is an important part of evaluating an oxidized bitumen supplier.

Faragam Bitumen focuses on supplying oxidized bitumen for international B2B markets, helping manufacturers and distributors source suitable grades for industrial applications.

Packaging of Oxidized Bitumen for Export

Oxidized bitumen can be supplied in several packaging formats depending on the grade, customer’s handling system and destination.

Common options include:

Packaging	Typical Application
Meltable PE bags	Easy charging into industrial processes
Kraft paper bags	General industrial export
Cartons	Smaller industrial quantities
Drums	Specialized applications
Jumbo bags	Large-volume industrial handling
Palletized bags	Containerized export shipments

The exact packaging should be selected according to the customer’s production process and transportation requirements.

Conclusion

Oxidized bitumen is a versatile industrial material with potential applications in rubber processing, rubberized products, automotive damping materials, protective compounds, sealants and selected tire-related formulations.

Grades such as 75/35, 85/40, 85/25 and 90/15 can provide different combinations of penetration, hardness and thermal stability. Softer grades may be preferable where flexibility and processing are important, while harder grades can be considered where greater resistance to heat and deformation is required.

However, there is no single “best” oxidized bitumen grade for all rubber or tire applications. The correct selection depends on the rubber polymer, fillers, oils, additives, processing temperature and required performance of the final product.

Faragam Bitumen provides oxidized bitumen for international B2B customers and can help manufacturers and distributors identify a suitable grade according to their technical requirements and destination market.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oxidized Bitumen for Rubber and Tires

Is oxidized bitumen used in rubber manufacturing?

Yes. Oxidized bitumen is used in selected rubber and rubberized-product formulations, including industrial rubber products, damping materials, coatings, sealants and other applications. Its suitability depends on the formulation.

Is oxidized bitumen used directly in tire manufacturing?

It can be considered for selected tire-related or rubber-compounding applications, but it is not a universal replacement for tire polymers or conventional tire raw materials. Tire manufacturers should validate the grade through laboratory compounding and performance testing.

Which oxidized bitumen grade is best for rubber?

There is no single grade that is best for every rubber formulation. 75/35, 85/40, 85/25 and 90/15 may be considered depending on the required hardness, flexibility and thermal resistance.

Is Oxidized Bitumen 85/40 suitable for rubber products?

85/40 can be considered for selected rubber and rubberized applications where a balance between thermal stability, hardness and flexibility is required. Its suitability should be confirmed through formulation testing.

Is Oxidized Bitumen 75/35 suitable for flexible rubber products?

75/35 is a relatively softer oxidized grade and may be considered where greater flexibility and processability are required. The final suitability depends on the rubber system and required mechanical properties.

What is the difference between 85/40 and 85/25?

Both grades have a similar nominal softening-point level, but 85/25 has lower penetration and is therefore harder than 85/40. 85/40 generally offers greater flexibility, while 85/25 can provide greater body and resistance to deformation.

Can oxidized bitumen improve rubber waterproofing?

Yes. Because bitumen is hydrophobic, suitable oxidized-bitumen formulations can contribute to water resistance in rubberized waterproofing and protective products.

Can oxidized bitumen be used in automotive rubber products?

Yes. Selected oxidized bitumen grades are used in automotive-related applications such as damping, underbody protection and rubberized protective compounds.

Does Faragam Bitumen export oxidized bitumen?

Yes. Faragam Bitumen supplies oxidized bitumen for international B2B markets and can discuss grade, specification, packaging and shipping requirements with manufacturers, distributors and industrial buyers.

Can Faragam Bitumen supply different oxidized bitumen grades?

Yes. Different oxidized bitumen grades can be considered according to the customer’s required softening point, penetration, application and technical specification.

What documents are available for oxidized bitumen?

Depending on the product and order, customers can request technical documentation such as a Technical Data Sheet (TDS), Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) and Certificate of Analysis (COA).

How should a tire manufacturer select oxidized bitumen?

The manufacturer should evaluate compatibility with the rubber polymer system, processing temperature, hardness, penetration, softening point, dynamic properties and the performance requirements of the finished tire or rubber component. Laboratory trials should be performed before commercial production.

Oxidized bitumen, also known as blown bitumen or blown asphalt, is a specially modified form of petroleum bitumen produced by blowing controlled quantities of air through heated bitumen. This oxidation process increases the softening point, reduces penetration, and gives the material greater thermal stability and a more rubber-like consistency.

In the rubber industry, oxidized bitumen can be used as an industrial binder, processing aid, filler-binder, waterproofing component, damping material, and formulation modifier, depending on the rubber compound and final product.

Oxidized bitumen is particularly interesting for manufacturers of rubber sheets, rubber mats, industrial rubber products, automotive components, vibration-damping materials, cable compounds, rubberized waterproofing products and selected tire-related formulations.

The suitability of a particular grade depends on the formulation, processing temperature, required hardness, flexibility, compatibility with polymers and fillers, and the final application.

What Is Oxidized Bitumen?

Oxidized bitumen is manufactured by passing air through heated petroleum bitumen under controlled conditions. The oxidation reaction changes the physical characteristics of the original bitumen and produces a material with a higher softening point and lower penetration.

Oxidized bitumen grades are normally identified by two numbers. The first number represents the approximate softening-point range, while the second represents the penetration range.

For example:

Oxidized Bitumen 85/40

• Softening point: approximately 85°C
• Penetration: approximately 40 dmm

The relationship between softening point and penetration is important when selecting oxidized bitumen for rubber processing because the manufacturer needs to balance thermal resistance, hardness, flexibility and processability.

Industrial references identify rubber processing as one of the applications of oxidized bitumen, alongside coatings, roofing, electrical insulation and other industrial uses.

Why Is Oxidized Bitumen Used in Rubber Manufacturing?

Rubber compounds are normally formulated from several materials rather than a single raw material. Depending on the product, these can include natural rubber, synthetic rubber, carbon black, silica, oils, sulfur, accelerators, antioxidants, processing aids, resins and other specialty ingredients.

Oxidized bitumen may be incorporated into selected formulations when the manufacturer needs properties such as:

• Improved binding between formulation components
• Increased compound hardness
• Better thermal stability
• Water resistance
• Adhesion
• Vibration damping
• Improved resistance to flow at elevated temperatures
• Modification of compound processing characteristics
• Cost optimization in suitable non-critical formulations
• Improved flexibility or toughness when the correct grade is selected

However, oxidized bitumen is not a universal replacement for natural or synthetic rubber. Its role should be evaluated through laboratory compounding and performance testing.

Oxidized Bitumen Grades Used in Rubber and Tire-Related Applications

Different oxidized bitumen grades can provide significantly different performance characteristics.

For rubber applications, manufacturers generally need to consider both softening point and penetration, rather than selecting a grade based only on its name.

Oxidized Bitumen 75/35

75/35 is among the relatively softer oxidized grades. Its combination of moderate softening point and relatively higher penetration can make it useful where greater flexibility and processability are required.

Potential applications include:

• Rubber compounds
• Rubberized materials
• Damping compounds
• Industrial rubber products
• Adhesive rubber formulations
• Flexible waterproofing products

Oxidized Bitumen 85/40

Oxidized Bitumen 85/40 offers a useful balance between hardness, thermal resistance and flexibility.

It can be considered for:

• Rubber processing
• Rubberized coatings
• Industrial rubber compounds
• Automotive applications
• Damping materials
• Sealants
• Waterproof rubber products

The grade is also documented in industrial applications involving rubber and plastic products.

Oxidized Bitumen 85/25

85/25 is harder than 85/40 because of its lower penetration. It may therefore be considered when the formulation requires greater body and resistance to deformation.

Potential applications include:

• Industrial rubber compounds
• Rubber sheets
• Rubberized coatings
• Sealants
• Automotive underbody compounds
• Protective rubber-bitumen products

Oxidized Bitumen 90/15

90/15 provides a higher softening point and relatively low penetration. It is consequently more suitable for formulations where increased hardness and resistance to elevated temperatures are important.

Potential applications include:

• High-temperature industrial compounds
• Rubberized sealants
• Protective coatings
• Automotive applications
• Specialized rubber products

Oxidized Bitumen 95/25 and Other Harder Grades

Higher-softening-point grades such as 95/25, 105/35, 105/15 and 115/15 may be considered for specialized formulations requiring higher thermal resistance and dimensional stability.

However, harder grades are not automatically better for tire or rubber production. A very hard oxidized bitumen can negatively affect flexibility, low-temperature performance or processing if it is not compatible with the formulation.

Industrial references list numerous oxidized grades, including 75/35, 85/25, 85/40, 95/25, 105/35 and 115/15, with applications varying according to the required physical properties.

Comparison of Oxidized Bitumen Grades for Rubber Applications

Grade	Approx. Softening Point	Relative Penetration	Relative Hardness	Potential Rubber Application
75/35	~75°C	Higher	Lower	Flexible rubber compounds, damping, rubberized products
85/40	~85°C	Higher	Medium	Rubber compounds, automotive products, sealants
85/25	~85°C	Medium	Medium-high	Industrial rubber, sheets, coatings
90/15	~90°C	Low	High	Heat-resistant compounds and sealants
95/25	~95°C	Medium	High	Specialized industrial rubber applications
105/35	~105°C	Higher	High	High-temperature industrial formulations
115/15	~115°C	Low	Very high	Specialized high-temperature applications

Actual specification ranges should be confirmed using the supplier’s TDS and the customer’s required standard. Grade suitability should also be validated by the rubber compound manufacturer.

Applications of Oxidized Bitumen in the Rubber Industry

Rubber Compound Manufacturing

Oxidized bitumen can be incorporated into selected rubber compounds as a formulation component or processing modifier.

Its relatively high softening point and low temperature susceptibility can be useful when the finished compound needs to maintain its physical characteristics over a broad temperature range.

Rubber Sheets and Mats

Oxidized bitumen may be used in certain rubberized sheet and mat formulations where properties such as:

• Water resistance
• Adhesion
• Flexibility
• Damping
• Thermal stability

are required.

This can be relevant to industrial mats, protective sheets and specialized rubberized products.

Vibration and Sound-Damping Products

The viscoelastic behavior of bituminous materials makes them useful in certain sound-damping and vibration-control formulations.

Applications can include:

• Automotive damping sheets
• Vehicle underbody materials
• Industrial vibration-control products
• Acoustic materials
• Machinery damping components

Automotive Rubber Products

Automotive manufacturers use a wide variety of rubber and rubberized materials.

Depending on the formulation, oxidized bitumen can be incorporated into products such as:

• Underbody protection materials
• Sealing compounds
• Damping materials
• Protective coatings
• Rubberized insulation products

Some oxidized bitumen grades are specifically described for automotive undercoating because of their waterproofing, dust-proofing and sound-damping characteristics.

Tire and Tire-Related Applications

The use of oxidized bitumen in tire manufacturing must be formulation-specific.

Tire compounds require carefully controlled mechanical, thermal and dynamic properties. Therefore, oxidized bitumen should not be regarded as a standard substitute for conventional tire polymers, carbon black, silica, process oils or specialty resins.

Instead, it may have potential in selected tire-related or rubber-compounding applications where the manufacturer requires:

• Binding properties
• Damping
• Adhesion
• Controlled hardness
• Processing modification
• Water resistance
• Thermal stability

The final suitability should be determined through laboratory trials and testing of the finished rubber compound.

Products Manufactured Using Oxidized Bitumen in Rubber Applications

Oxidized bitumen can be relevant to several categories of rubber and rubberized products.

Product	Possible Role of Oxidized Bitumen	Main Desired Property
Rubber sheets	Binder/modifier	Adhesion & water resistance
Rubber mats	Formulation component	Damping & durability
Automotive damping sheets	Damping component	Vibration/noise reduction
Rubberized waterproofing	Binder	Water resistance
Industrial seals	Formulation component	Adhesion & dimensional stability
Protective rubber coatings	Binder/modifier	Protection & adhesion
Underbody compounds	Bituminous component	Waterproofing & damping
Cable compounds	Insulating/impregnating component	Insulation & protection
Specialized rubber products	Modifier/binder	Formulation-dependent
Tire-related compounds	Selected formulation component	Application-dependent

The actual function of oxidized bitumen varies significantly according to the polymer system and formulation.

Benefits of Oxidized Bitumen in Rubber Manufacturing

1. Thermal Stability

Oxidized bitumen has a higher softening point than many conventional penetration-grade bitumens. This makes appropriate grades useful in formulations exposed to elevated temperatures.

2. Water Resistance

Bitumen is inherently hydrophobic. When incorporated appropriately into rubberized products, it can contribute to resistance against water and moisture.

3. Adhesion

Oxidized bitumen can provide useful adhesive characteristics in rubberized and bituminous formulations.

4. Damping Properties

Bituminous materials can contribute to vibration and sound damping, making them relevant to automotive and industrial applications.

5. Controlled Hardness

By selecting the appropriate grade, manufacturers can adjust the balance between hardness and flexibility.

6. Resistance to Flow

Higher-softening-point grades can provide greater resistance to deformation at elevated temperatures.

7. Formulation Flexibility

The availability of different grades allows rubber manufacturers to select materials according to the desired processing and finished-product properties.

Oxidized Bitumen vs. Conventional Bitumen for Rubber Applications

Property	Oxidized Bitumen	Penetration Bitumen
Softening point	Generally higher	Generally lower
Penetration	Generally lower	Generally higher
Thermal stability	Higher	Lower to moderate
Resistance to flow	Higher	Lower
Flexibility	Grade-dependent	Generally higher
Hardness	Higher	Lower
Rubber-like behavior	Relatively pronounced	Less pronounced
Industrial applications	Extensive	More commonly paving-oriented
Rubber formulation	Selected applications	Application-dependent

Oxidized bitumen is therefore generally selected when a rubber formulation requires more thermal stability, hardness or resistance to deformation than a conventional paving-grade bitumen can provide.

Other Raw Materials Used Together with Oxidized Bitumen in Rubber Manufacturing

Oxidized bitumen is normally only one component of a larger formulation.

Depending on the final product, manufacturers may use:

• Natural rubber
• SBR (Styrene-Butadiene Rubber)
• BR (Butadiene Rubber)
• EPDM
• NBR
• Carbon black
• Silica
• Process oils
• Sulfur
• Zinc oxide
• Stearic acid
• Antioxidants
• Accelerators
• Tackifying resins
• Hydrocarbon resins
• Plasticizers
• Mineral fillers
• Specialty additives

The exact formulation depends on whether the final product is a tire, rubber sheet, sealant, damping material, hose, gasket, coating or another rubber product.

How to Select the Right Oxidized Bitumen Grade for Rubber

The correct grade should be selected according to the requirements of the finished product rather than simply choosing the highest softening point.

Important parameters include:

Softening Point

A higher softening point can improve resistance to flow and deformation at elevated temperatures.

Penetration

Penetration provides an indication of the relative hardness and consistency of the material.

Compatibility

The oxidized bitumen must be compatible with the rubber polymer, oils, resins, fillers and other additives used in the formulation.

Processing Temperature

The melting and processing behavior of the oxidized bitumen should be compatible with the manufacturing process.

Final Product Flexibility

If the rubber product must remain flexible, an excessively hard oxidized bitumen may not be appropriate.

Required Mechanical Properties

Tensile strength, elongation, hardness, abrasion resistance, compression set and dynamic properties should be considered according to the final application.

Export Markets for Oxidized Bitumen Used in Rubber Industries

Demand for oxidized bitumen is connected to industrial manufacturing, automotive production, construction, waterproofing and rubber-product manufacturing.

Potential export destinations for oxidized bitumen used in rubber-related industries include:

Asia

• China
• India
• Indonesia
• Thailand
• Vietnam
• Malaysia
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• Philippines

These markets have substantial chemical, rubber, automotive and industrial manufacturing sectors.

Middle East

• UAE
• Saudi Arabia
• Oman
• Qatar
• Iraq
• Kuwait
• Turkey

The region has demand from automotive, industrial manufacturing, construction and rubberized-product industries.

Africa

• Egypt
• Kenya
• Tanzania
• Ethiopia
• South Africa
• Nigeria
• Ghana
• Algeria
• Morocco

African markets can be relevant for imported industrial raw materials used in rubber products, waterproofing materials and construction-related manufacturing.

Europe

• Italy
• Spain
• Germany
• Poland
• Romania
• Bulgaria
• Serbia
• Greece

European customers generally require detailed technical documentation, consistent specifications and compliance with the requirements applicable to their particular end use.

Why Choose Faragam Bitumen for Oxidized Bitumen?

Faragam Bitumen supplies oxidized bitumen for international industrial applications and can support customers looking for reliable specifications, consistent quality and export-oriented supply.

For rubber and tire-related applications, Faragam Bitumen can offer grades selected according to the customer’s required:

• Softening point
• Penetration
• Application
• Packaging
• Loading requirements
• Destination market
• Technical specification
• Quality-control requirements

For industrial customers, supplying the correct TDS, MSDS and certificate of analysis (COA) is an important part of evaluating an oxidized bitumen supplier.

Faragam Bitumen focuses on supplying oxidized bitumen for international B2B markets, helping manufacturers and distributors source suitable grades for industrial applications.

Packaging of Oxidized Bitumen for Export

Oxidized bitumen can be supplied in several packaging formats depending on the grade, customer’s handling system and destination.

Common options include:

Packaging	Typical Application
Meltable PE bags	Easy charging into industrial processes
Kraft paper bags	General industrial export
Cartons	Smaller industrial quantities
Drums	Specialized applications
Jumbo bags	Large-volume industrial handling
Palletized bags	Containerized export shipments

The exact packaging should be selected according to the customer’s production process and transportation requirements.

Conclusion

Oxidized bitumen is a versatile industrial material with potential applications in rubber processing, rubberized products, automotive damping materials, protective compounds, sealants and selected tire-related formulations.

Grades such as 75/35, 85/40, 85/25 and 90/15 can provide different combinations of penetration, hardness and thermal stability. Softer grades may be preferable where flexibility and processing are important, while harder grades can be considered where greater resistance to heat and deformation is required.

However, there is no single “best” oxidized bitumen grade for all rubber or tire applications. The correct selection depends on the rubber polymer, fillers, oils, additives, processing temperature and required performance of the final product.

Faragam Bitumen provides oxidized bitumen for international B2B customers and can help manufacturers and distributors identify a suitable grade according to their technical requirements and destination market.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oxidized Bitumen for Rubber and Tires

Is oxidized bitumen used in rubber manufacturing?

Yes. Oxidized bitumen is used in selected rubber and rubberized-product formulations, including industrial rubber products, damping materials, coatings, sealants and other applications. Its suitability depends on the formulation.

Is oxidized bitumen used directly in tire manufacturing?

It can be considered for selected tire-related or rubber-compounding applications, but it is not a universal replacement for tire polymers or conventional tire raw materials. Tire manufacturers should validate the grade through laboratory compounding and performance testing.

Which oxidized bitumen grade is best for rubber?

There is no single grade that is best for every rubber formulation. 75/35, 85/40, 85/25 and 90/15 may be considered depending on the required hardness, flexibility and thermal resistance.

Is Oxidized Bitumen 85/40 suitable for rubber products?

85/40 can be considered for selected rubber and rubberized applications where a balance between thermal stability, hardness and flexibility is required. Its suitability should be confirmed through formulation testing.

Is Oxidized Bitumen 75/35 suitable for flexible rubber products?

75/35 is a relatively softer oxidized grade and may be considered where greater flexibility and processability are required. The final suitability depends on the rubber system and required mechanical properties.

What is the difference between 85/40 and 85/25?

Both grades have a similar nominal softening-point level, but 85/25 has lower penetration and is therefore harder than 85/40. 85/40 generally offers greater flexibility, while 85/25 can provide greater body and resistance to deformation.

Can oxidized bitumen improve rubber waterproofing?

Yes. Because bitumen is hydrophobic, suitable oxidized-bitumen formulations can contribute to water resistance in rubberized waterproofing and protective products.

Can oxidized bitumen be used in automotive rubber products?

Yes. Selected oxidized bitumen grades are used in automotive-related applications such as damping, underbody protection and rubberized protective compounds.

Does Faragam Bitumen export oxidized bitumen?

Yes. Faragam Bitumen supplies oxidized bitumen for international B2B markets and can discuss grade, specification, packaging and shipping requirements with manufacturers, distributors and industrial buyers.

Can Faragam Bitumen supply different oxidized bitumen grades?

Yes. Different oxidized bitumen grades can be considered according to the customer’s required softening point, penetration, application and technical specification.

What documents are available for oxidized bitumen?

Depending on the product and order, customers can request technical documentation such as a Technical Data Sheet (TDS), Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) and Certificate of Analysis (COA).

How should a tire manufacturer select oxidized bitumen?

The manufacturer should evaluate compatibility with the rubber polymer system, processing temperature, hardness, penetration, softening point, dynamic properties and the performance requirements of the finished tire or rubber component. Laboratory trials should be performed before commercial production.