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IS 5871:1970 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for bitumen based sealing compounds for joints in concrete. This standard specifies the requirements and testing methods for hot-applied, bitumen-based sealing compounds. These compounds are used for sealing expansion and contraction joints in concrete structures like pavements, canals, and roofs to prevent water ingress and protect the joint.
Specifies requirements for bitumen based sealing compounds for joints in concrete pavements and structures.
! This is an old standard for a basic type of sealant. For modern or high-performance applications, consider newer materials like polysulphide, polyurethane, or silicone-based sealants specified in other codes.
! Strict adherence to the pouring temperature is critical. Overheating can damage the bitumen's properties, while underheating results in poor flow and bonding.
! Proper joint preparation, including thorough cleaning, drying, and priming (if required), is essential for the long-term performance of the sealant.
Consolidated list per BIS. For the text of each amendment, refer to the BIS portal link above.
bitumensealing compoundconcretejoint sealant
International Equivalents
Similar International Standards
ASTM D6690-15(2021)ASTM International, USA
HighCurrent
Standard Specification for Joint and Crack Sealants, Hot-Applied, for Concrete and Asphalt Pavements
Covers modern hot-applied sealants, which are the direct evolution of the materials specified in IS 5871.
BS EN 14188-1:2004BSI / CEN, UK / Europe
HighCurrent
Joint fillers and sealants. Specifications for hot applied sealants
European standard for hot-applied sealants for joints in pavements and airfields, covering similar material types.
ASTM D1190-97(2017)ASTM International, USA
HighWithdrawn
Standard Specification for Concrete Joint Sealer, Hot-Poured Elastic Type
Classic historical equivalent to IS 5871, focusing specifically on hot-poured elastic sealants for concrete.
BS 2499-1:1993BSI, UK
HighWithdrawn
Hot-applied joint sealant systems for concrete pavements. Specification for joint sealants
The preceding British standard with a very similar scope and material technology to IS 5871.
Key Differences
≠IS 5871 specifies a single grade of sealing compound, whereas modern standards like ASTM D6690 define multiple types (e.g., Type I, II, III, IV) based on climatic conditions and performance requirements like elastic recovery.
≠Modern international standards include performance tests not found in IS 5871, such as resilience/elastic recovery (ASTM D6690) and resistance to heat and aging, providing a more detailed characterization of sealant durability.
≠The low-temperature bond test in IS 5871 is conducted at -10°C. In contrast, higher-performance grades in ASTM D6690 require testing at much lower temperatures (e.g., -29°C for Type II), indicating suitability for colder climates.
≠ASTM D6690 and BS EN 14188-1 include requirements for compatibility with asphalt and resistance to fuels (for airfield applications), which are not addressed in the more generic scope of IS 5871.
Key Similarities
≈All standards cover thermoplastic, hot-applied sealing compounds based on a bitumen or polymer-modified bitumen binder, which are heated for application and solidify on cooling.
≈The fundamental test methods for basic properties are conceptually similar, including tests for penetration (consistency), flow (slump resistance at elevated temperatures), and bond (adhesion at low temperatures).
≈The primary application specified across all standards is for sealing expansion and contraction joints in rigid concrete pavements, such as roads, bridges, and canal linings.
≈All standards require the material to be homogeneous, free from lumps, and stable when heated to the application temperature, ensuring consistent performance.
Parameter Comparison
Parameter
IS Value
International
Source
Penetration (at 25°C)
30 to 50 (100 g, 5 s)
≤ 90 (150 g, 5 s)
ASTM D1190
Flow (at 60°C)
≤ 5 mm
≤ 3 mm
ASTM D6690 (Type I/II)
Bond Test Temperature
-10°C, 5 cycles, no failure
-29°C, 3 cycles, no failure (for Type II)
ASTM D6690
Resilience / Elastic Recovery
Not Specified
Minimum 60%
ASTM D6690 (Type II)
Pouring Temperature
150°C to 180°C
Manufacturer's recommended pour temperature (e.g., ~190°C)
ASTM D6690
Adhesion and Cohesion (after extension)
Specified via Bond Test
Specified requirement at -20°C (Class 200)
BS EN 14188-1
⚠ Verify details from original standards before use
Key Values6
Quick Reference Values
Maximum Pouring Temperature180 °C
Maximum Flow at 75°C for 5 hours5 mm
Penetration at 25°C (150 g, 5 s)40 to 90 (in 1/10 mm)
Bond Test Requirement at -10°CNo failure in adhesion or cohesion after 5 hours
Minimum Flash Point (Pensky-Martens)230 °C
Maximum Water Content0.5 percent by mass
Tables & Referenced Sections
Key Tables
Table 1 - Requirements for Bitumen Based Sealing Compounds
What is the required penetration value for this sealing compound?+
The penetration at 25°C must be between 40 and 90 (in units of 1/10 mm) as per Table 1.
What is the maximum temperature the bitumen should be heated to for pouring?+
The pouring temperature shall not exceed 180°C, as stated in Clause 3.2.
How is the bond strength evaluated?+
A bond test is performed at -10°C for 5 hours. The specimen should show no signs of failure in either adhesion to the concrete blocks or cohesion within the sealant itself (Table 1 & Appendix C).
Is this sealant suitable for joints in a chemical plant?+
No, this is a basic bitumen sealant. It is not designed for chemical resistance; a specialized sealant would be required for such environments.