What is bituminous concrete?
Bituminous concrete is a type of building material used for paved roads, driveways and parking. It is made of a mixture of stone and other forms of aggregated materials connected together by a binding agent. This binding agent is called "bitumen" and is a by -product of oil refine. When heated, it has a strong, sticky texture like a tar, after it dries, forms a thick solid surface. Bituminous concrete is also widely known as asphalt in many parts of the world.
Despite its name, bituminous concrete is completely different from the standard concrete and contains no cement. While most cement -based surfaces are white or gray, bituminous concrete is known for its distinctive black look. It is often laid directly through the gravel base to form new roads and parking lots, but can also be poured through existing concrete for repairing or smoothing the bumps and cavities. Once the bituminous concrete is poured on the road, the installations use large paved machines for smoothing and Compact POvrch.
While asphalt tiles do not offer the same power as traditional concrete, it is still the most popular material for most pavement applications. Bituminous concrete is strong enough to handle the years of operation of the vehicle, and it is relatively easy to repair or specify. It also provides smoother and quieter driving than cement surfaces, helping to reduce noise pollution around motorways and other busy roads. Asphalt paving is also fully recyclable, although recycled products may not be as strong as raw materials. Some manufacturers add recycled tires or glass aggregate to recycled asphalt to increase its strength and durability.
Many disadvantages associated with bituminous concrete concerns its environmental impact. Bituminous binding agents in the asphalt are derived from fossil fuels. Not only are fossil fuels non -renewable and in a limited offer you also contribute to pollutantsMany ways. The fuel derivation process releases toxic fumes into the air that contributes to poor air quality and global warming.
Asphalt also issues a clear odor during and after the paving process. This odor comes from bituminous binding substances that over time turn even more harmful fumes into the air. Rain and rainwater drain can also cause pollutants from concrete to be washed into areas and watercourses. Some of the negative environmental effects of bituminous concrete may be reduced by alternative paving techniques, including lowering the temperature of hot asphalt before pouring.