Asphalt is a popular material used in road construction due to its durability and affordability. It is made from a mixture of aggregates, binder, and filler materials that are heated and mixed together to form a black, sticky substance that can be poured onto a roadway. However, not all asphalt is created equal, there are several types of asphalt that are used for different applications. In this blog post, we will discuss four types of asphalt.
Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA)
Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) is the most commonly used type of asphalt for road construction. It is made by heating aggregates, such as crushed rock and sand, and then mixing them with asphalt cement.
The mixture is then poured onto the roadway and compacted to create a smooth surface. HMA is ideal for high-traffic roads and highways because it is durable, long-lasting, and able to withstand heavy loads.
Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA)
Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) is a newer type of asphalt that is becoming increasingly popular in road construction. It is made by adding a small amount of water to the asphalt mixture, which lowers the temperature required to mix and lay the asphalt.
This not only reduces the amount of energy required to produce the asphalt, but it also results in lower greenhouse gas emissions. WMA is also more workable than HMA, which means that it can be laid at lower temperatures and in colder weather conditions.
Porous Asphalt
Porous Asphalt is a type of asphalt that is designed to allow water to pass through it. It is made by using a larger aggregate size and a lower amount of binder material, which creates small voids on the surface of the roadway.
When it rains, water is able to seep through the voids and into the ground below. This helps to reduce stormwater runoff and prevent flooding. Porous Asphalt is commonly used in parking lots, sidewalks, and other areas where stormwater management is a concern.
Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA)
Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA) is a type of asphalt that contains a higher percentage of stone than traditional HMA. The stone particles are coated with asphalt binder, which creates a stronger and more durable surface.
SMA is ideal for roads with heavy truck traffic or areas with high levels of wear and tear. It is also resistant to cracking and rutting, which makes it ideal for use in colder climates where freeze-thaw cycles are common.
These four types of asphalt each have unique characteristics that make them ideal for different road construction applications. From the commonly used Hot Mix Asphalt to the environmentally friendly Warm Mix Asphalt, the water-permeable Porous Asphalt to the strong and durable Stone Matrix Asphalt, road builders have a variety of options to choose from when constructing roads that meet the needs of their communities.