Asphalt, also known as bitumen in some areas, is a
viscous,
black and highly sticky form of petroleum used in mainly manufacturing and industrial
applications. It can occur naturally or can be refined with crude oil and is usually
mixed with a set (eg sand, gravel, or crushed stone) to create durable paving materials.
Asphalt is given importance to its waterproofing, adhesive and flexible properties,
making it necessary for infrastructure projects worldwide.
USAGE:-
Asphalt is widely used in road construction (representing over 90% of paved roads
worldwide), coverage systems (tiles, membranes and waterproof coatings), airport
clues, bridge decks and industrial sealants. It is applied in different forms,
including hot mix asphalt (HMA) for paving, cold mixture asphalt for repair, cutting
asphalt (with solvent) for initial surfaces and emulsified asphalt (water based) for
spraying applications. In addition, oxidized asphalt (such as bitumen 85/25) is used
in waterproofing and corrosion coatings.
Asphalt offers superior durability, flexibility and cost efficiency compared to
other paving materials. The water resistant nature prevents moisture damage, while
its thermoplastic properties allow it to resist temperature fluctuations without
cracks. Asphalt sidewalk provides a smooth, noise -reducing surface that improves
driving comfort and safety. It is also 100% recyclable, making it an environmentally
sustainable choice. In ceilings and waterproofing, asphalt forms long-lasting,
weather-resistant barriers that protect structures from UV rays, rain and extreme
temperatures. The strong adhesive ensures reliable bonding with different materials,
including concrete, metal and aggregates, making it indispensable in construction
and industrial applications.