Things You Didn’t Know About Asphalt
Asphalt is the go-to material for pavement construction, and it is widely used on highways, roads, parking lots, and driveways. It is known for its durability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. However, there is much more to asphalt than meets the eye. There are a ton of interesting facts and statistics associated with the material that you probably didn't know about. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most fascinating things about asphalt that you may not have known. So, come along on this journey of asphalt discovery.
1. Asphalt is Recyclable
Did you know that asphalt is one of the most recyclable products in the world? When old asphalt is removed from the pavement, it can be reused and reprocessed into new asphalt, which experts in the field call "reclaimed asphalt pavement" (RAP). Recycling old asphalt has multiple benefits such as reducing landfill waste, natural resource conservation, and cost savings. In fact, studies have shown that using recycled asphalt can save up to 50% of the cost of producing new asphalt.
2. Asphalt is a Sustainable Material
Asphalt is a sustainable pavement material because it is energy-efficient, easily maintained, and recyclable. Asphalt pavements emit low carbon dioxide, which is an important green criterion for sustainability. The material is also known for its ability to absorb and reflect sunlight, making it a heat-resistant pavement that can reduce the heat island effect in cities. Therefore, if you're looking to make your paving more sustainable, asphalt is the way to go.
3. Asphalt comes in Different Colors
Most people think of asphalt as black and gray, but it actually comes in a range of colors including red, beige, and green. Colored asphalt can be used for decorative purposes on pavements and walkways or to convey important messages such as bike paths, pedestrian crosswalks, and bus lanes. The colored asphalt uses the same materials as the traditional black asphalt, but with added pigments or natural aggregates to produce different hues.
4. Asphalt Can Reduce Noise Pollution
Asphalt is a surprisingly effective material for reducing noise pollution. The pavement structure, as well as the smoothness and texture of the asphalt surface, can have a significant impact on noise levels. Specialized asphalt mixes, such as open-graded asphalt, and porous asphalt, are designed to reduce tire-pavement noise when vehicles drive over them. These mixes can help cut urban noise levels by up to 10 decibels.
5. Asphalt is Used for More Than Just Paving
Asphalt has a range of applications beyond paving and construction. In the automotive industry, asphalt is used to make car parts such as undercoating, shock absorbers, and vibration dampers. The material is also a critical component in the roofing industry, where it is used to make waterproofing and sealing products. In addition, asphalt is used in the production of adhesives, coatings, and insulation materials.
Conclusion
Asphalt has been a staple in the pavement industry for centuries. It's tough, durable, and affordable, but also sustainable. Beyond its traditional uses, there are a ton of fascinating things you may not have known about asphalt. From its recyclability to its diverse color range, asphalt is a top choice in many industries. So, if you're considering a paving project soon, you now know why asphalt should be your first choice. If you're looking for asphalt paving in Sacramento, CA, contact M. Carroll Asphalt in today for a free quote.