sedimentary
Asphalt Concrete
Bituminous conglomerate
Hardness: 1-3 (matrix), 6-7 (aggregate); Color: Dark grey to black; Luster: Dull to greasy; Structure: Clastic bituminous matrix; Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5
- Hardness
- 1-3 (matrix), 6-7 (aggregate)
- Color
- Dark grey to black
- Luster
- Dull to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 1-3 (matrix), 6-7 (aggregate); Color: Dark grey to black; Luster: Dull to greasy; Structure: Clastic bituminous matrix; Specific gravity: 2.3-2.5
Formation & geological history
Man-made via the heating of bitumen (crude oil derivative) mixed with mineral aggregates such as gravel, sand, or crushed rock; 20th century to present.
Uses & applications
Primary material for road construction, airport runways, parking lots, and roofing.
Geological facts
While man-made, natural asphalt (bitumen) has been used since ancient Mesopotamia for waterproofing; it is one of the world's most recycled materials.
Field identification & locations
Identify by the distinct smell of petroleum when heated, presence of varied gravel aggregates held in a black tar-like binder; found globally in urban infrastructure.
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