Petroleum Bitumen

Petroleum bitumen — the heaviest residual fraction of crude oil distillation — is the binding agent in asphalt paving, roofing membranes, and waterproofing systems, making it a direct indicator of infrastructure construction activity. Classified under a single 10-digit line (2713200000), its grade is defined by penetration value and softening point rather than chemical composition, and specification compliance is verified at the point of use. Canada is the dominant US import supplier, with Colombia and Venezuela also among the leading sources — a supply profile closely tied to heavy crude refining capacity in the Western Hemisphere. Viscosity-grade and performance-grade specifications set by AASHTO govern most US highway-paving procurement.