anthropogenic sedimentary (technolith)
Asphalt (Road Aggregate)
Asphalt concrete / Bituminous mixture
Hardness: 1-3 (Mohs), highly variable; Color: Black to dark grey; Luster: Dull to greasy; Structure: Heterogeneous mixture of mineral aggregates and bitumen; Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.5.
- Hardness
- 1-3 (Mohs), highly variable
- Color
- Black to dark grey
- Luster
- Dull to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 1-3 (Mohs), highly variable; Color: Black to dark grey; Luster: Dull to greasy; Structure: Heterogeneous mixture of mineral aggregates and bitumen; Specific Gravity: 2.3-2.5.
Formation & geological history
Formed by mixing mineral aggregates (crushed rock, sand, gravel) with its binder, bitumen (petroleum-derived). Not a natural geological specimen, but a man-made road material.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in road construction, pavement, parking lots, and roofing. Known for flexibility and durability under heavy loads.
Geological facts
While asphalt occurs naturally in 'pitch lakes' like La Brea in Trinidad, most specimens found in urban environments are man-made asphalt concrete. It is one of the most recycled materials on the planet.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its dark color, porous appearance, and often a faint smell of tar if heated. It is commonly found near roadworks, driveways, or construction sites.
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Other anthropogenic sedimentary (technolith) specimens
Concrete rubble
Anthropogenic conglomerate
sedimentary
Chert (Arrowhead)
Chert (SiO2)
sedimentary
Fordite
Anthropogenic paint-rock
mineraloid (human-made geological specimen)
Asphalt Concrete (Bituminous Conglomerate)
Anthropogenic Bituminous Conglomerate
sedimentary
Asphalt Chunk (with aggregate)
Bituminous concrete / Anthropogenic conglomerate
sedimentary (anthropogenic/man-made conglomerate)
Aggregate Concrete
Anthropogenic Conglomerate (Technosol)
sedimentary