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When contractors ask for a softer asphalt binder that still delivers stability, Bitumen AH 110 is usually the answer. This grade is widely known in Asian markets, especially under Chinese standards, and it is designed for flexible pavement structures, cold climates, and surface layers that require strong adhesion without excessive stiffness. In simple terms, AH 110 is a softer penetration-grade asphalt that balances workability, durability, and performance in real construction conditions.
If you are evaluating suppliers or comparing technical options, this guide will help you clearly understand whether this grade fits your project.
Bitumen AH 110 belongs to the penetration grading system commonly used in China. The “110” refers to its penetration value range (measured in 0.1 mm at 25°C), meaning it is softer than grades like AH 90 but still structured enough for road construction and industrial applications.
Because of this balanced softness, it is often selected for:
Flexible pavement layers
Base and binder courses in moderate climates
Asphalt mixing plants requiring smooth blending
Surface treatments and overlays
Compared to harder grades, Bitumen AH 110 offers easier mixing and better aggregate coating. At the same time, it maintains enough consistency to resist rutting under traffic when properly designed.
The term chinese grade AH 110 is not just a label. It reflects compliance with Chinese national standards for road petroleum asphalt. These standards define:
Penetration range
Softening point
Ductility
Flash point
Solubility
Loss on heating
This means buyers are not purchasing a random soft binder. Instead, they receive a controlled product with defined laboratory limits.
For international buyers in Asia, Africa, and some CIS countries, this grading system is already familiar. Many government projects and contractors specifically request AH grades in tender documents. Therefore, sourcing from a reliable Bitumen AH 110 supplier ensures compliance with project specifications.
In practical roadwork, Bitumen AH 110 shows its strength in flexibility. Softer grades generally handle temperature variations better, especially in regions where pavement must absorb movement without cracking.
During mixing,Bitumen AH 110 melts smoothly and blends well with aggregates. Because of its viscosity characteristics, plant operators usually experience:
Uniform coating
Stable mixing temperature control
Reduced segregation
This improves overall asphalt homogeneity and reduces rework.
When used in properly designed asphalt mixtures, Bitumen AH 110 contributes to:
Improved fatigue resistance
Better crack control
Smoother surface finish
This makes it suitable for urban roads, secondary highways, and maintenance overlays.
To better understand its position, let’s compare it briefly with nearby grades.
While bitumen ah 90 is slightly harder, Bitumen AH 110 offers more flexibility. In warmer climates or heavy-load highways, AH 90 might provide better rutting resistance. However, in moderate or cooler regions, AH 110 can reduce cracking risk and improve long-term pavement life.
Some international projects still prefer penetration systems such as penetration bitumen 60/70. Compared to 60/70, AH 110 is softer. Therefore:
60/70 → more rigidity, higher resistance to deformation
AH 110 → more flexibility, easier workability
The choice depends on climate, traffic load, and pavement design.
Although exact figures may vary slightly between refineries, standard specifications generally include:
Penetration (25°C): around 100–120 (0.1 mm)
Softening Point: typically above 40°C
Ductility (5°C or 15°C depending on standard): high elongation capacity
Flash Point: above 230°C
Solubility in trichloroethylene: ≥ 99%
Loss on Heating: controlled within specification limits
These properties ensure predictable behavior during storage, heating, and application.
AH 110 is mainly used in:
Surface courses
Binder courses
Asphalt concrete mixtures
Urban road rehabilitation
Because it offers good flexibility, it is often selected for regions where temperature variations are significant.
Plant operators appreciate its stable heating response. It does not foam excessively when properly handled, and it maintains consistent viscosity during mixing.
For chip sealing and maintenance overlays, Bitumen AH 110 provides good aggregate adhesion and controlled spreading characteristics.
A professional Bitumen AH 110 supplier usually offers multiple packaging options:
New steel drums (typically 150–180 kg net weight)
Jumbo bags for bulk transport
Bulk shipment via bitumen tankers
Flexitanks for cost-efficient export
Drum marking, batch numbering, and COA documentation are essential. Independent inspection before loading is strongly recommended for international shipments.
Storage guidelines:
Avoid direct exposure to extreme heat
Keep drums upright
Reheat gradually using indirect heating systems
Proper storage prevents premature oxidation and quality variation.
Before shipment, laboratory tests confirm compliance with Chinese standard AH 110 specifications. Key tests include:
Penetration test (ASTM D5 or equivalent)
Ring and Ball softening point (ASTM D36)
Flash point (ASTM D92)
Solubility test
Ductility test
A reliable supplier provides:
Certificate of Analysis (COA)
MSDS
Batch test report
This documentation protects both buyer and seller and ensures transparency in B2B transactions.
Many buyers ask about bitumen price, but the answer depends on several variables:
Crude oil market trends
Refinery production capacity
Export regulations
Packaging type
Shipping destination
Seasonal demand
Softer grades like Bitumen AH 110 may show slight price variation compared to harder grades, depending on regional demand. Therefore, buyers should request updated quotations based on FOB or CIF terms.
Selecting a dependable Bitumen AH 110 supplier is not only about price. It involves:
Consistent quality
On-time shipment
Clear documentation
Transparent communication
Ability to handle bulk contracts
In international trade, delays or inconsistent batches can affect entire road projects. That is why experienced suppliers implement strict QC procedures and coordinate closely with logistics partners.
To summarize its strengths:
High flexibility
Good fatigue resistance
Easy mixing and application
Strong aggregate adhesion
Suitable for moderate climates
Recognized Chinese grading standard
These advantages make AH 110 a practical choice for contractors who need reliability without excessive rigidity.
The answer depends on three main factors:
Climate conditions
Traffic load
Pavement design
If your project requires flexibility, crack resistance, and smooth mixing performance, AH 110 can be a suitable solution. However, for extremely heavy traffic or very high-temperature regions, harder grades might be more appropriate.
Consulting your pavement design engineer and comparing laboratory test data is always recommended before final selection.
Bitumen AH 110 is a widely used Chinese penetration-grade asphalt known for its flexibility, workability, and balanced mechanical properties. It performs well in road construction, urban pavements, and maintenance projects.
When sourced from a reliable supplier with proper testing and documentation, it becomes a stable and predictable binder for long-term asphalt performance.
Understanding its technical profile, applications, and differences from nearby grades helps buyers make informed decisions and avoid costly specification mismatches.
If your next project demands a softer yet dependable asphalt binder, AH 110 deserves serious consideration.