Repsol YPF

Rubber modified bitumens

The use of rubber from old tyres makes it possible to improve the rheological properties of base bitumen. Using rubber modified bitumens considerably increases the durability of the road surface in comparison with conventional bitumens, leading to a significant financial saving in the medium-term.

In light of the initial incompatibility of the tyre powder with the bitumens, specific bitumens had to be used along with chemical compatibilizing agents. This has led to the development of a particular manufacturing process which enables us to obtain products which are stable in storage at a wide range of specifications.

In addition to the above-mentioned advantages, these bitumens entail significant environmental advantages. First of all, they help by removing old tyres from dumps and secondly, they minimise the acoustic impact by reducing noise levels when vehicles drive over the surface, a characteristic which is particularly relevant in urban areas and on ring roads.

The technical specifications of rubber modified bitumens are those listed in article 215 of PG-3, as indicated in the OC 21/2007 approved by the Ministry of Development.

Rubber modified bitumens can be used for the same applications as polymer modified bitumens, in particular: road surfaces, F and M discontinuous mixtures for thin layers, drainage mixes and S mixes for intermediate layers with improved properties in plastic fatigue and deformation.

Repsol makes its Technical Assistance department available to you for advice in every situation about the best conditions for usage, handling and storage of this kind of special binders.