Durable, high-performance, and sustainable solutions are increasingly in focus in modern road construction. Especially when it comes to noise-reducing or heavily trafficked asphalt layers, the question arises: polymer-modified bitumen (PmB) or rubber-modified bitumen (RmB G)? In this article, we explain the technical differences, present real-world advantages of rubber modification – and show why using RmB G pays off in the long run.
Rubber-modified bitumen (RmB G) is a binder made by adding finely ground rubber from end-of-life truck tires – pretreated and blended with bitumen – to standard paving-grade bitumen. The modification is carried out in a thermal reaction process that activates the rubber polymers and permanently incorporates them into the bitumen matrix. CTS uses GRM by CTS, a product approved under TL RmB-StB By, which is successfully applied across Germany. Due to its pre-reaction, RmB G can also be used without issue in low-temperature asphalt applications.
✅ 1. Significantly longer service life
In all asphalts with RmB G, a significant extension of service life is achieved — with PmB, however, this is shorter. RmB G is used in the following types of asphalt: porous asphalt (PA), low-noise stone mastic asphalt (SMA-LA), standard stone mastic asphalt (SMA), asphalt concrete top layer (AC), thin-layer pavement (DSH-V), asphalt concrete binder layer (AC).
✅ 2. Lower maintenance costs
Fewer repairs mean: fewer construction sites, less traffic obstructions — and lower overall costs.
✅ 3. Environmental and climate benefits
A 2021 life cycle study by Umtec AG shows: due to the extended pavement life, annual CO₂ impact per ton of asphalt is significantly reduced. In PA, for example, savings of up to 6.1 kg CO₂ per ton per year are achievable. Additionally, the material reuse of end-of-life tires contributes positively to the circular economy.
✅ 4. Better performance resilience
With greater elasticity and reduced cracking potential, RmB G is particularly well suited for all types of roads (motorways, federal highways, state and county roads) as well as climate-sensitive regions with large temperature variations.
Rubber-modified bitumen (RmB G) is not just a technical alternative to PmB – in many applications, it’s the better solution. The combination of longer service life, lower CO₂ impact, high performance, and recycling compatibility makes RmB G a future-proof choice for sustainable road construction.
We are happy to advise you individually on your project. Whether for PA, SMA, or binder layers – we’ll show you how to build sustainably and cost-effectively with RmB G.
