What is the difference between RC, MC, and SC cutback bitumen?

The difference between Rapid Curing (RC), Medium Curing (MC), and Slow Curing (SC) cutback bitumen lies in the type of solvent used and the resulting curing speed. RC grades use highly volatile solvents such as naphtha, allowing rapid evaporation and fast curing, making them ideal for prime coats and surface dressing. MC grades use kerosene, providing a balanced curing rate suitable for mixed-in-place road construction and plant-mix applications. SC grades use low-volatility fuel oils, resulting in slow curing that allows deeper penetration, making them suitable for dust suppression, road stabilisation, and long-term stockpile mixes.

Which ASTM standards apply to cutback bitumen?

Cutback bitumen is governed by three primary ASTM standards depending on the curing classification. ASTM D2028 applies to Rapid Curing (RC) grades, ASTM D2027 covers Medium Curing (MC) grades, and ASTM D2026 defines specifications for Slow Curing (SC) grades. These standards outline requirements for viscosity, distillation characteristics, flash point, and residue properties, ensuring consistency, safety, and performance in road construction applications.

What viscosity grades are available in cutback bitumen?

Cutback bitumen is available in a wide range of viscosity grades, typically ranging from 30 to 3000 centistokes (cSt) at 60°C. Common grades include RC 30, RC 70, RC 250, RC 800, RC 3000, as well as equivalent MC and SC grades. Lower viscosity grades are designed for better penetration into granular bases, while higher viscosity grades are used for surface treatments and heavy-duty applications where stronger binding performance is required.

Is cutback bitumen suitable for use in cold weather conditions?

Cutback bitumen is generally less suitable for cold or humid climates because its curing process depends on solvent evaporation, which slows significantly at lower temperatures. In such conditions, adhesion may be delayed and performance compromised. For cold or wet environments, bitumen emulsion is often preferred as it breaks and sets through a chemical process rather than evaporation, providing more reliable bonding under adverse weather conditions.

What safety precautions are required when handling cutback bitumen?

Cutback bitumen is classified as a flammable liquid due to the presence of petroleum solvents, so proper safety measures are essential during handling, storage, and transportation. It should be stored in well-ventilated areas away from open flames or ignition sources, and personnel should use appropriate personal protective equipment including gloves, goggles, and protective clothing. Compliance with international shipping regulations such as the IMDG Code is required for export, along with proper labeling and documentation to ensure safe transit and handling.

Cutback bitumen

Cutback bitumen that applies without heating. Rapid, medium and slow curing.

Solvent-blended RC, MC and SC grades that apply without heating and cure at controlled speeds for surface dressing, patching and general paving.

Sourced from Dubai, UAE and shipped worldwide, for cold climates and time-sensitive road works.

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Three curing speeds

The solvent sets how fast the binder cures.

Rapid curing (RC)5 grades

Light solvent, sets quickly for rapid construction and maintenance.

Medium curing (MC)5 grades

Balanced setting time for patching, tack coats and general paving.

Slow curing (SC)5 grades

Extended working time for heavy-duty pavements and low temperatures.

RC · MC · SCNo preheatingBulk & drum export

The basics

What is cutback bitumen?

Bitumen blended with a volatile petroleum solvent, such as kerosene, naphtha or diesel, to lower its viscosity so it can be applied at ambient or lower temperatures.

The type and proportion of solvent set the curing speed and the class: RC, MC or SC. As the solvent evaporates, the bitumen returns to an adhesive binder for aggregates.

Typical uses are surface dressing, tack coats and patch repairs, especially in cooler climates or where heating equipment is limited.

3 types

RC, MC and SC

15 grades

30 to 3000

No heating

Applied at ambient temperature

Dubai

Export hub

Cutback bitumen

Curing types & grades

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Choosing a cutback

Which curing type fits the job?

Match the curing speed to your timeline, climate and application method.

Fast jobs: rapid curing

RC grades suit surface dressing, chip seals, tack coats and prime coats, and fast-turnaround maintenance.

RC 30 · RC 70 · RC 250 · RC 800

Patching and paving: medium curing

MC grades are used for road patching, tack coats and general paving, from MC 30 to MC 3000.

MC 30 to MC 3000

Heavy duty and cold: slow curing

SC grades suit heavy-duty pavements, low-temperature work and coatings that need extended working time.

SC 30 to SC 3000

Weather matters. Curing speed also depends on solvent volatility, ambient temperature and weather. Tell us your conditions and we will suggest the grade.

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