Asphalt: Meaning, properties, types and uses

Asphalt is a semi-solid, black, viscous substance derived from petroleum and is used in a variety of construction applications.

If you’re searching for asphalt meaning, then you’re at the right place. Asphalt is a semi-solid, black, viscous substance derived from petroleum. It is used in a variety of construction applications, including as a binder or adhesive in road pavements, waterproofing, and roof repairs. In addition to natural asphalt, asphalt emulsions, residual asphalt, mastic asphalt and asphalt cement are other types of asphalt. Each type has unique properties and uses, with viscosity, plasticity, temperature sensitivity, and stability in the atmosphere being some of the most important properties of asphalt.

 

Asphalt: Meaning, properties, types and uses

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See also: Different types of road roller and their uses

 

Asphalt: Types

The following are the major types of asphalt used in construction.

Natural asphalt

Asphalt: Meaning, properties, types and uses

Source: Pinterest

 

Natural asphalt can be found as fossil deposits in lakes and rocks at depths of 3 to 60 meters. In addition to bitumen, it contains between 40 and 70 percent water.

 

Residual asphalt

Asphalt: Meaning, properties, types and uses

Source: Pinterest

 

Residual asphalt is made by distilling crude petroleum oil with an asphaltene base, while mastic asphalt is a mixture of the required minerals, such as limestone and aggregates, with black bitumen that has been heated to a liquid state.

 

Asphalt cement

Asphalt: Meaning, properties, types and uses

Source: Pinterest

 

In asphalt cement, bitumen and asphalt are mixed with flux oil, which has adhesive properties, while in cutback asphalt, asphalt cement and petroleum solvent are combined.

 

Asphalt emulsion

Asphalt: Meaning, properties, types and uses

Source: Pinterest

 

An asphalt emulsion consists of globules of asphalt cement suspended in 50 to 60 percent water with a 1 percent emulsifier.

Asphalt: Uses

Asphalt has many uses, including waterproofing and road pavement construction. Its waterproof property makes it an ideal material for roof repairs. Asphalt’s viscosity and plasticity also make it an ideal binder or adhesive in construction applications. Additionally, its temperature sensitivity allows it to be used in a variety of weather conditions, making it a versatile material in construction.

One of the most important uses of asphalt is in road pavements. Asphalt is a popular choice for road pavements due to its durability, smoothness, and ability to withstand heavy traffic. It is also an environmentally friendly option, as it is made from a renewable resource and can be recycled. Asphalt road pavements can be designed to meet specific performance requirements, making them an ideal choice for both residential and commercial areas.

 

FAQs

How is asphalt used?

In roads and highways, asphalt cement is created by mixing a binder with an aggregate.

How is asphalt made?

As a result of fractional distillation, crude petroleum is converted into asphalt.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you.

Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com

 

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