Iraq’s construction boom is raising demand for certified bitumen that can handle heat, traffic, and tight timelines. If you manage procurement for highways, airports, ports, or industrial parks, understanding how bitumen is produced, tested, packed, and delivered in Iraq helps you make informed purchasing decisions and avoid costly delays. In simple terms, the right producer provides two key benefits: consistent quality and reliable availability.
How Bitumen Is Produced
Bitumen is typically produced by refining crude oil and separating heavier fractions through controlled processes. At our plant near Karbala, the process starts with Vacuum Distillation Units (VDUs) that concentrate the heavier fractions required for paving grades and specialty binders. The output can then be further processed in an asphalt blowing unit or blended to achieve precise penetration or performance grades.
Why This Matters for Buyers
- You get stable specifications that match your mix design.
- Lead times are easier to plan because production is continuous, not batch-limited.
- Grades can be fine-tuned for local conditions in Baghdad, Basra, and Erbil.
Capacity and Supply Security
Our current production capacity is 2,756 m³ per day, supported by a total VDU capacity of 3,000 m³ per day. As a result, we can serve national programs and private developments without frequent stockouts. Consistent production means consistent delivery windows, which keeps projects on schedule.
What This Means for Tendering
- Firm delivery dates and fewer change orders.
- Ability to scale orders for seasonal peaks.
- Confidence that the same grade will be available throughout the project.
Grades and Specifications
Different projects demand different grades. Penetration grades suit many standard road works, while performance grades target heat, cold, and heavy loads. Polymer Modified Bitumen and CRMB serve high-stress locations like freight corridors, bus lanes, and airport taxiways.
Penetration Grades You Will See in Iraq
Common ranges include ASTM 60–70 and 85–100, along with BS EN 50–70 and 160–220. The choice depends on climate, traffic, and the asphalt mix.
Performance Grades for Climate and Traffic
PG 70, PG 76, and PG 82 are mapped to pavement temperature and load cycles. For example, PG 76 helps resist rutting in hot zones while PG 82 pushes performance even further on desert highways and heavy-duty intersections.
Specialty Binders
PMB grades such as 10/40-65 and 25/55-65, and CRMB variants, enhance elasticity, reduce cracking, and extend pavement life under demanding conditions.
Quality Assurance and Testing
Every batch should pass standard tests before it ships. Buyers should ask about penetration, softening point, kinematic and dynamic viscosity, rotational viscosity, ductility, flash point, and specific gravity. We run 12 or more tests per batch and provide a Certificate of Analysis on request. Third-party audits by international agencies add another layer of assurance.
How to Review a CoA Quickly
- Confirm the grade and standard, for example, ASTM D5 or EN 1426 for penetration.
- Check that tolerances match the project specification.
- Make sure sampling dates align with production and shipping dates.
Packaging and Logistics
Packaging has a real impact on cost, safety, and project flow. Bulk supply is most efficient for large, continuous works. Flexitanks reduce unit costs for marine transport. Steel drums and jumbo bags support smaller sites and precise dosing. A temperature-controlled chain protects integrity during loading, transit, and unloading.
Choosing a Format
- Bulk for national highway lots and refinery-to-site supply.
- Flexitanks for international shipments with strong cost control.
- Drums for smaller contractors and precise on-site handling.
- Jumbo bags when you need recyclable materials and fast forklift handling.
Compliance and Documentation
Iraq projects often reference AASHTO, ASTM, and BS EN standards. Your supplier should clearly list the relevant standards and keep records aligned with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 practices. Safety requirements should follow NFPA 30 for storage and handling. The goal is simple: traceability from raw material to finished product.
Common Procurement Questions
How Soon Can I Get Delivery in Baghdad or Basra?
Lead times depend on volume and packaging. With continuous production and in-house logistics, typical delivery windows are competitive within Iraq.
Can I Request Grade Matching?
Yes. Share climate data, traffic category, and mix design details. Our team will recommend a grade and provide supporting test data.
What Documentation Will I Receive?
TDS, MSDS, and Certificates of Analysis are available for each batch. We can also share third-party audit summaries on request.
Speak to our expert
Request a quote for your next tender or talk to our experts about grade matching for Baghdad, Basra, or Erbil. Get in touch today, and we will share sample CoAs and delivery options that match your timeline.
