OREANDA-NEWS. September 19, 2011. According to TNK-BP, the city of Moscow used TNK-Alfabit polymer-modified bitumen (PMB) in an experiment to pave one of the heaviest-used sections of the Moscow Beltway (MKAD) between 66th and 67th kilometer marks, reported the press-centre of TNK-BP.

Asphalt concrete made with TNK-Alfabit polymer-modified bitumen (PMB) has improved performance and durability characteristics compared with conventional pavement mixtures.

“TNK-Alfabit’s unique properties are the product of innovative manufacturing technologies. We apply a proprietary technology to cross-link polymer and asphaltene molecules, rendering unique properties to the pavement made with TNK-Alfabit—strength, durability, and stability of basic characteristics under extreme service conditions,” says Wolfgang Garbe, Technical Director, Performance Unit Bitumen, TNK-BP.

The experimental roadway section will undergo testing before decisions are made on the format of further cooperation and setting up deliveries of TNK-Alfabit for road construction in Moscow.

Information for editors:
TNK-Alfabit is an innovative product manufactured by TNK-BP. TNK-Alfabit helps address automobile road degradation problems: it prevents road surface cracking caused by sharp temperature differences and makes road surface more durable and stable against rutting. TNK-Alfabit extends the life of roadways in heavy service to 7–8 years.

Worldwide experience of polymer-modified bitumen application in road construction has demonstrated its indisputable advantages over other asphalt concrete improvers. In recent years, PMBs have gained a 10–12% share of the European road bitumen market. PMBs are increasingly in demand in the Russian Federation as the country’s road traffic grows.

The experimental roadway section is located at Volokolamsk Highway–MKAD interchange along the outer side toward Crocus Expo trade fair center.

TNK-BP, parity-owned by BP and AAR consortium (Alfa Group / Access Industries / Renova), is Russia’s third largest oil company. TNK-BP also owns approximately 50% of Slavneft, a Russian oil company. ТNК-ВР contributes almost 16% to Russia’s oil production (including TNK-BP share in Slavneft). Company’s total SEC proven reserves without license cutoff stood at 8.794 billion barrels of oil equivalent as of December 31, 2010.