Learning - Asphalt

Asphalt is a sticky, brownish-black substance used commonly in road making, roofing, and waterproofing. Chemically, it is a natural mixture of hydrocarbons. It varies in consistency from a solid to a semisolid, has great tenacity, melts when heated, and when ignited will burn with a smoky flame leaving very little or no ash. It is found in nature in deposits called asphalt lakes. Asphalt is obtained as a residue in the distillation or refining of petroleum. It also occurs in asphalt rock, a natural mixture of asphalt with sand and limestone, which when crushed is used as road-building material. Asphalt is also used in the manufacture of paints and varnishes, giving an intensely black color.

Asphalt being carefully removed from the top of the viewing platform
Asphalt being carefully removed from the top of the viewing platform

Close-up of the asphalt being carefully removed
Close-up of the asphalt being carefully removed

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Last updated: 16 January, 2008