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Shell Multiphalte is a process-modified bitumen, which was developed specifically to increase the structural performance of asphalt mixtures on heavy traffic roads.

Pavements are subject to multiple distresses: deformation; rutting; shoving; delaminating; raveling; cracking; potholes; stripping; bleeding and flushing. These distresses cannot be ignored as they reduce road safety and increase the community cost of road repairs and maintenance. Multiphalte grades are recognised as the leading solution worldwide to combat rutting and cracking and improve the robustness of the pavement. They allow the production of high-performance asphalt mixes and offer true solutions wherever heavy traffic is putting high stress on the pavement.

High performance

Created by Shell, Multiphalte grades are manufactured in refineries using a non-conventional process. The Multiphalte range includes grades with different anti-rutting and structural properties. These grades have high thermal stability and thus perform well at high and low temperatures. They can therefore be used for both the wearing course and the binder course.

Protection of sensitive areas

Multiphalte mixes have demonstrated better durability wherever heavy lorry traffic is dense or temperature variations are high (i.e. severe freezing in winter, extreme heat in summer).

Multiphalte grades are therefore suitable for:

• Highways
• Motorways
• Tollgates
• Roundabouts
• Traffic-light intersections
• Bus lanes
• Heavy lorry lanes

They also perform well on high declivity roads and on heavy lorry parking areas.

Better safety

Going for Multiphalte is also going for safety. Multiphalte-based pavements provide more durable surface roughness, skid resistance and increased riding comfort.

Easy mixing and laying

Multiphalte grades are easy to use. The paving can be done with conventional equipment and processes. Supply and storage do not require extra attention. The only specific recommendations are:

• A 10 degree Celsius higher mix temperature
• Compaction to be done as close as possible to finishing

Less maintenance

The use of Multiphalte grades reduces the rut depth by half. The pavement therefore requires less maintenance, causing less inconvenience for road users and generating life-cycle cost reductions.

Durable investments

Multiphalte solutions are highly competitive as they provide:

• Better resistance to stress
• Better safety
• Easy to lay and maintain

The technology also provides durable performance and delivers return on investment to the asset owner.