Asphalt and tar are two very common materials used in carriageway paving, with different characteristics and applications.
Although they are often confused, each material has distinct properties that make them more suitable for different types of projects.
Explore in this article the differences between asphalt and tarmac, the pros and cons of each option and how to choose the best option.
Before explaining the characteristics and advantages of each material, it’s important to distinguish between them.
Although they look like the same material, the main difference between asphalt and tar lies in the materials used in their composition.
What’s The Difference Between Asphalt And Tar?
Asphalt is a mixture of bitumen and mineral aggregates (such as sand and stone), used mainly for paving roads and streets. Tar, on the other hand, is a by-product of coal distillation, used on a smaller scale due to its environmental impact.
What Does Asphalt Mean?
Asphalt is a natural or petroleum-derived bituminous material widely used in road and pavement construction.
It has waterproof and adhesive properties, making it ideal for creating durable, traffic-resistant surfaces.
What Is Asphalt Made Of?
This material is produced from oil in a separation process called fractional distillation. Petrol, a homogeneous liquid mixture, is heated and then cooled so that its components can be separated.
As the compounds in asphalt have high boiling points, they don’t turn into gases during heating. Instead, they separate from the other components of the oil, such as:
What Types Of Applications For Asphalt?
This is a material with many applications, especially for paving streets and roads, in industrial areas, car parks and as a base for airport runways.
In addition, this material is widely used in drainage works, paving cycle paths or in construction works such as foundations.
Another growing use is rubber asphalt, which combines recycled tires and offers greater resistance and less environmental impact.
Is Asphalt Safe For The Environment?
Although its use is very common, this material has various environmental impacts throughout its production and use. Because it is derived from oil, its production involves processes that consume large amounts of energy and emit polluting gases. On the other hand, asphalt contains substances such as asphaltenes, chemical compounds that are harmful to the environment.
Another problem is the use of paraffin, a product resulting from the fractional distillation of petroleum, as a solvent in some types of asphalt. When spilt, it can contaminate and damage soil fertility.
A Yale University study concludes that asphalt releases polluting compounds even after it has been applied. On hot days, this process intensifies, with increased emissions of gases and fine particles into the air, harming both the environment and public health.
What Are The Advantages Of Asphalt?
The main advantages of this material are:
- Durability: withstands heavy traffic and weather conditions;
- Flexibility: adapts to different types of soil and applications;
- Ease of maintenance: quick repairs, such as applying cold asphalt;
- Cost-effectiveness: competitive price compared to other materials.
How Is Asphalt Maintained?
Maintaining asphalt is essential to extend its lifespan and ensure safety. To do this, it is essential to carry out regular inspections to identify cracks, holes or deformations.
If these anomalies are detected, it is recommended to fill in the cracks to prevent water infiltration and further damage. A protective layer is then applied to revitalize the surface.
Another way to preserve the good condition of the asphalt is to ensure that the drainage systems are unobstructed. This helps prevent erosion during heavy rainfall and reduces the risk of dangerous situations such as aquaplaning, which jeopardize driver safety.
What Is Tar?
Tar is a by-product of the coal carbonization process. It is a viscous, black substance that is very common in road surfacing.
What Types Of Applications For Tarmac?
Tarmac is used in a variety of applications, particularly in the construction and paving industries. The main uses include:
- Tar Roads paving: serves as a base for asphalt and other paving materials, guaranteeing strength and durability;
- Waterproofing: to cover surfaces and protect against water infiltration;
- Chemical industry: as a raw material to produce various products such as dyes and paints.
Is Asphalt Better Than Tar?
As a general rule, asphalt is more durable than tarmac due to its chemical composition, which is more resistant to wear and weather conditions.
It also has greater elasticity, which helps it withstand heavy vehicle traffic and temperature variations without cracking easily.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Using Tar Compared To Asphalt?
Tar has advantages such as lower initial cost and good adhesion in cold climates, making it an economical option for smaller-scale or temporary projects. However, it is less durable, as it is more prone to deformation, cracking and wear due to heat or heavy traffic.
Asphalt, on the other hand, stands out for its greater durability, elasticity and resistance to climatic variations, as well as requiring less long-term maintenance. However, its initial cost is high, which can be a disadvantage in limited budgets.
The choice between tar or asphalt depends on the intended use and the budget.
How To Choose Between Asphalt And Tarmac For a Project?
Asphalt is ideal for roads with heavy traffic and long-term projects, thanks to its durability and low maintenance. Tarmac, on the other hand, is more economical but less resistant, making it ideal for temporary or low-traffic projects.
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