Technogenic / Anthropogenic Pavement Material
Asphalt Concrete (Bituminous Pavement)
Aggregates in Bitumen Matrix
Hardness (Aggregate): 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Black to dark gray (weathering to light gray); Luster: Dull to oily; Structure: Granular composite; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.5
- Color
- Black to dark gray (weathering to light gray)
- Luster
- Dull to oily
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Physical properties
Hardness (Aggregate): 6-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Black to dark gray (weathering to light gray); Luster: Dull to oily; Structure: Granular composite; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.5
Formation & geological history
Man-made material composed of mineral aggregates (sand, gravel, or crushed stone) bound together by bitumen (asphalt cement), a sticky, black, and highly viscous form of petroleum.
Uses & applications
Primary material for road construction, parking lots, airport runways, and core liners for embankment dams.
Geological facts
Asphalt is the most recycled material in the world; nearly 99% of used asphalt is reclaimed and reused in new paving projects. It has been used since ancient times (around 625 BC) for waterproofing.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its dark, granular appearance, unique tar-like smell when hot, and presence in flat, engineered surfaces. Common worldwide in urbanized areas.
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Asphalt Chunk (with aggregate)
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Asphalt Concrete (Bituminous Conglomerate)
Anthropogenic Bituminous Conglomerate
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Slag
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