man-made rock (technosol)
Asphalt (Bituminous Concrete)
Composite material (bitumen binder with mineral aggregate)
Hardness: variable but brittle (approx. 2-3 on Mohs when cold); Color: Dark gray to black; Luster: Dull/Matte; Structure: Granular/Composite; Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.5
- Hardness
- variable but brittle (approx
- Color
- Dark gray to black
- Luster
- Dull/Matte
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Physical properties
Hardness: variable but brittle (approx. 2-3 on Mohs when cold); Color: Dark gray to black; Luster: Dull/Matte; Structure: Granular/Composite; Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.5
Formation & geological history
Manufactured through the thermal mixing of bitumen (heavy petroleum byproduct) and mineral aggregates (sand, gravel, crushed stone). This specific piece is a detached fragment (spall) from a paved surface, likely broken due to weathering or mechanical stress.
Uses & applications
Primary material for road construction, parking lots, driveways, and roofing shingles due to its waterproof and binding properties.
Geological facts
Asphalt is 100% recyclable and is the most recycled material in the United States. While found in nature as 'bitumen' or 'tar pits,' the specimen shown is the industrial variant used for infrastructure.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its dark color, granular texture (containing bits of quartz, basalt, or granite), and characteristic 'tar' smell when heated. It is ubiquitous in urban environments and often found near road debris or potholes.
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