Typically black or brown in color, asphalt is a petroleum-like substance with a viscosity ranging from liquid to solid. It can either be a byproduct of the distillation of petroleum or a natural deposit. Asphalt is made up primarily of hydrogen and carbon molecules, with a small amount of nitrogen, sulfur, and oxygen thrown in there for good measure. In contrast to petroleum asphalt, natural asphalt (also known as brea) typically contains minerals, whereas residual petroleum asphalt is not.
When heated, asphalt becomes pliable and elastic. When asphalt is utilized as a sealant or glue, its mechanical qualities have little impact. Road paving is the most common use of asphalt; however, it can be used in a variety of ways. Light oil “dust layer” treatments can be built up by repetition in order to make a hard surface, as well as the addition of crushed stone or dirt from the road surface itself to an asphalt coat, or even a granular aggregate can be used.
How Is Asphalt Used?
Asphalt is used in many important applications, such as in the building of reservoir and canal linings, dams, and other body-of-water structures. When used this way, it’s typically sprayed in a thin layer, covered with soil to protect against mechanical damage and weathering. Either this, or it’s protected by thicker surfaces, such as riprap (also known as crushed rock). Asphalt is also used in roofing, flooring, coatings, water-proofing, sound-proofing, and other construction elements.