Asphalt

Asphalt

Asphalt, also known as bitumen, is a sticky, black, and highly viscous liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum. It is commonly used in the construction industry as a binder for aggregates such as sand, gravel, and crushed stone to create asphalt concrete, which is used for road surfacing, airport runways, parking lots, and other paved areas. Asphalt is also used as a waterproofing agent in roofing materials and as a sealant in various applications. Asphalt is produced by refining crude oil through a process called fractional distillation. During this process, the crude oil is heated and separated into different components based on their boiling points. Asphalt is obtained from the heaviest and thickest fraction of the crude oil, which is called the residuum. The residuum is further processed to remove impurities and to adjust its properties to meet specific requirements for different applications. Asphalt has many advantages as a construction material. It is durable, flexible, and resistant to weathering, abrasion, and heavy traffic. It also provides good skid resistance and reduces noise levels. However, asphalt is not without its drawbacks. It can soften and deform under high temperatures, and it can become brittle and crack in cold temperatures. It is also prone to oxidation and can deteriorate over time if not properly maintained.

Bitumen, Petroleum, Asphalt Concrete, Waterproofing, Skid Resistance

— Joseph Moore

CITATION : "Joseph Moore. 'Asphalt.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=263536 (Accessed on August 28, 2025)"