bitumen mastic for flooring for industries handling LPG and other light hydrocarbon products
1991 Edition

IS 13026 specifies that the bitumen mastic includes carbon black or graphite to provide electrical conductivity and anti-static properties. While the standard mandates bitumen content between 13% and 18% by mass, it does not explicitly state the exact carbon black or graphite percentage. Typically, industry practice incorporates about 5% to 15% by mass of carbon black or graphite in the mastic to achieve the desired conductivity. Exact proportions depend on specific electrical and mechanical requirements and should be optimized through laboratory testing.

For the flooring to qualify as anti-static under IS 13026, the electrical resistance should fall between 5 × 10^4 ohms (50,000 Ω) and 2 × 10^6 ohms (2,000,000 Ω). Resistance below 5 × 10^4 Ω ensures adequate dissipation of static charges to prevent fire or shock hazards for voltages up to 250 V. Resistance higher than 2 × 10^6 Ω may not sufficiently provide anti-static protection. Testing is performed using insulation testers at 500 V DC for resistance up to 10^6 Ω and 1000 V DC for higher resistances, with accuracy within ±15% and power dissipation limited to 3 watts.

Hardness of the bitumen mastic is determined by measuring the penetration depth of a flat-ended steel rod with a diameter of 6.35 mm into the mastic. A load of 317 N (equivalent to 10 N/mm²) is applied for 1 minute at a controlled temperature of 35 ± 0.5°C. The hardness number is expressed as the penetration depth in hundredths of a centimeter (0.01 cm). Acceptable hardness values range from 4 to 12, ensuring the flooring is neither too soft nor too brittle, suitable for environments involving hydrocarbon handling.

Before applying bitumen mastic flooring as per IS 13026, the base surface must be thoroughly cleaned, dry, and free from dust, oils, grease, or loose materials. It should be level and structurally sound, with any cracks or uneven areas repaired. Compatibility of the base material, typically concrete or cement screed, with the bitumen mastic should be confirmed. A primer is applied to enhance adhesion and prevent bitumen absorption. Temperature conditions for both base and ambient air must fall within recommended ranges, usually between 10°C and 40°C. Standards such as IS 1196:1978 and IS 13974:1991 provide detailed guidelines for surface preparation and laying.

IS 13026:1991 is designed for bitumen mastic flooring used primarily in industries managing LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) and other light hydrocarbon substances. It is applicable to LPG storage and handling facilities, petrochemical plants, hydrocarbon processing industries, and areas exposed to light hydrocarbons where chemical resistance and fire safety are paramount. This flooring standard ensures anti-static, chemically resistant, and durable surfaces to minimize fire hazards in volatile industrial environments.