man-made composite (lithified equivalent of sedimentary)
Asphalt (Bituminous Concrete)
Bituminous mix / Anthropogenic conglomerate
Hardness: 1-3 (Mohs scale, varies with temperature); Color: Dark grey to black; Luster: Dull to greasy (due to bitumen content); Structure: Granular/fragmental; Specific Gravity: 2.1-2.4
- Hardness
- 1-3 (Mohs scale, varies with temperature)
- Color
- Dark grey to black
- Luster
- Dull to greasy (due to bitumen content)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 1-3 (Mohs scale, varies with temperature); Color: Dark grey to black; Luster: Dull to greasy (due to bitumen content); Structure: Granular/fragmental; Specific Gravity: 2.1-2.4
Formation & geological history
Formed through the industrial mixture of mineral aggregate (crushed stone, gravel, sand) and a liquid bitumen binder. While the rocks within it are ancient, the compound is modern (Holocene/Anthropocene).
Uses & applications
Used primarily in civil engineering for road construction, pavement, roofing, and waterproofing.
Geological facts
Natural asphalt (bitumen) has been used since ancient Mesopotamia for waterproofing temple baths. The modern version shown here is a 'synthetic rock' designed to mimic the properties of conglomerate or breccia.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its dark, tar-like matrix binding heterogeneous rock fragments together. It is ubiquitous in urban environments and often found near roadwork sites. Unlike natural rocks, it may soften or smell like oil/tar if heated.
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