Asphalt pavement is made up of several components. Understanding the science behind asphalt will help you better understand why it is a popular choice for road construction and repairs.
This blog post by AAA Paving Since 1964 LLC will take a closer look at the different elements that make up asphalt and explain how they work together to create a strong surface.
By understanding the science of asphalt, you can be sure that you are making an informed decision regarding your home’s pavement needs.
What Is Asphalt Pavement Made Up Of?
Asphalt pavement is made up of two main ingredients: asphalt binder and aggregate.
Asphalt Binder
Asphalt binder is a sticky, black substance that binds the aggregate together. It is made up of bitumen, a by-product of petroleum refining.
Bitumen is a black, sticky substance produced by distilling crude oil. This substance gives asphalt its waterproofing properties and helps bind the other ingredients together.
The asphalt binder helps to keep the pavement flexible so that it can withstand changes in temperature and weather conditions.
Aggregate
Aggregate is the second ingredient in asphalt pavement. It is a mix of gravel, sand, and stone that gives the pavement strength and stability. The asphalt binder binds the aggregate together to create a strong surface.
The asphalt binder and aggregate are mixed and then compacted into place using a paver machine.
Paver machines come in different sizes and have different capabilities. They all work to compress the mixture evenly into place.
What Goes into Pavement Construction?
Once the asphalt has been readied, it is installed on top of a subgrade.
The subgrade is the layer of soil or other material that forms the foundation of the road. The subgrade must be compacted to provide a solid foundation for the asphalt.
After the asphalt has been placed on the subgrade, it is compacted using a roller within a certain time frame and to a certain compression density.
The last step in creating asphalt pavement is to smooth it out using a roller. Rollers come in different sizes and weights, but they all work to create a smooth, level surface.
Why is Asphalt so Popular in Road Construction?
- Asphalt is a durable material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. It is also resistant to damage from weather and traffic.
- Asphalt pavement is easy to repair, making it a popular choice for road construction and repairs.
- Asphalt is also a relatively inexpensive material, making it a good choice for budget-conscious road projects.
Overall, asphalt is a versatile and durable material that is well-suited for use in road construction.
AAA Paving Since 1964 has served the Sugarland area with a wide variety of paving solutions for over 50 years. We specialize in new asphalt paving construction and repairs of all sizes and complexities for municipal, industrial, commercial, and private property sectors.
Our asphalt services include milling, tac/overlay, repairs (potholes/cracking), and maintenance (seal coating). We are a family-owned business that takes pride in our work and our commitment to customer satisfaction.
