Asphalt cement is a binding agent used to adhere aggregate materials, such as stone, gravel, and sand, together in constructing roads and other paved surfaces. It is a semi-solid form of black petroleum and is composed of various hydrocarbons.
Asphalt cement is also known as bitumen, tar, or pitch. Mainly used to pave roads, highways, and parking lots, there is more than meets the eye for asphalt cement. However, which materials are needed in creating the semi-liquid material? Here are some ideas.
1. Natural Deposits
Asphalt cement is derived from natural petroleum deposits, a viscous liquid containing hydrocarbons. The production of asphalt cement is an involved process that begins with drilling for crude oil. The oil is then refined to extract the asphalt cement and blended with other ingredients to create asphalt.
Asphalt cement acts as a binder, holding all of the other components of asphalt together and providing the strength and durability needed for roads and other paved surfaces. It can also be used to seal asphalt surfaces, helping to protect them against weathering and wear. Asphalt cement is also an excellent choice for roofing and waterproofing applications.
2. Petroleum Byproducts
Refining petroleum byproducts also produce asphalt cement. Petroleum byproducts are a byproduct of the petroleum refining process and are used to create various products, including asphalt cement. The refining process involves breaking petroleum molecules into smaller components and recombining them multiple ways to develop asphalt cement.
Asphalt cement derived from petroleum byproducts is often used in paving, roofing, and waterproofing applications. It is also used to seal asphalt surfaces, helping to protect them from weathering and wear. Asphalt cement derived from petroleum byproducts is also often used in asphalt shingles, commonly used for roofing.
How is Asphalt Cement Made?
Asphalt cement combines petroleum byproducts with other materials such as air, water, and minerals. The byproducts are heated, mixed, and then processed in a refinery to form asphalt cement.
a. Blend
The first step involves blending the byproducts to create asphalt cement. The byproducts are heated to a high temperature and combined with air, water, and minerals. As a result, the materials come out as a cohesive mixture.
b. Emulsify
The next step is to emulsify the mixture, which involves breaking down the particles of the mixture into tiny droplets suspended in a mixture of water and oil, creating a stable emulsion used in asphalt production.
c. Pulverize
The third step is to pulverize the asphalt cement, grinding the material into a fine powder. Crushing the material can happen using various tools, such as a hammer, chisel, or even a blender. Breaking the asphalt into smaller pieces will make it easier to ensure a more consistent result.
Common Uses of Asphalt Cement
Asphalt cement is commonly used in paving, roofing shingles, and other waterproofing materials. It is also used to create roads and highways and seal driveways and parking lots. Asphalt cement is also used in concrete production, as it helps bind the ingredients together.
Conclusion
Asphalt cement is a versatile material that can be used for various applications. It is essential to understand the steps involved in its production and the common uses of asphalt cement. By following the proper steps and understanding the standard benefits, you can ensure that you get the best results from your asphalt cement.
Todd Heldt Excavating, Inc. is one of Sacramento, CA’s leading asphalt paving contractors. We specialize in asphalt driveways but also do pavement markings and other asphalt jobs our clients may need. Learn more about our services by browsing the website of the asphalt companies near you today.