Viscosity grade bitumen is a petroleum grade bitumen derived from crude oil. This grade of bitumen is tested and classified differently from other types of bitumen. After production, refiners test the VGs by a viscometer to classify them according to their level of viscosity in various temperatures.
The viscosity test results in four VG grades of bitumen including VG10 Bitumen, VG20 Bitumen, VG30 Bitumen, and VG40 Bitumen. The higher the number, the harder the bitumen in the viscosity grading system.
In comparison to penetration grade bitumen, VG bitumen grades are more reliable and easier to handle (both mixing and compaction) and their resistance to temperature changes is more predictable.