The first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions asphalt is most likely a road. However, asphalt is actually quite versatile and can be used for other things, such as tennis courts, the linings of fish hatcheries, and roofing shingles. Many people assume that asphalt cannot be reused and is difficult to recycle, but this is not the case. Recycling asphalt is better for the environment, it is more durable and it can be cheaper to produce. There is also a high demand for recycled asphalt. Today, we will be taking a look into 4 ways to recycle and reuse asphalt.
Asphalt Milling Process
Asphalt milling is the first step of the asphalt recycling process. It refers to the procedure of recycling and re-paving used asphalt. It aims to remove the top layer of asphalt from the roads or pavement without bothering the sub-base. Once the asphalt has been milled up, it will be transported to an asphalt plant. Here, it will be screened and sized again and will be prepared to make new surfaces. Asphalt can be recycled and reused more than once, which increases its lifespan. In order to get fresh looking asphalt without the negative impact, other materials can be recycled to create asphalt.
Asphalt Pulverisation
Asphalt pulverization is a method where the surface layer that is already present at the job site is ground up and blended with the sub-layers. The old materials are essentially used to create a new sub-base. Pulverisation is a popular process because it saves money, it is fast and it is good for the environment. Many asphalt laying companies, like Erickson Asphalt, are starting to use recycling methods to reduce the costs of the initial installation or repairs. As well as asphalt pavement, asphalt shingles can be recycled in order to create an aggregate source, but this is not a simple process.
Pavements and Roads
Asphalt is commonly used to build pavements and roads. Recycled asphalt requires fewer materials to produce, reducing the consumption of resources, such as labor, machinery, fuel, and transportation. As well as being kinder to the environment, recycled asphalt is more durable and stronger than new asphalt. This means that surfaces that have been covered with recycled asphalt will last longer and will be safer. It is also cheaper, which will save the homeowner or those who pay tax money when asphalt is required for installation or repairs.
Other Uses
As mentioned previously, asphalt can be used for more than pavements and roads and the same goes for recycled asphalt. Although it is less common, recycled asphalt can be used to construct parks, playgrounds, dams, and reservoirs by architects. Farmers may require asphalt to line the base of a retention pond (that are used to raise fish) and for containment pens for livestock. Asphalt is also heavily relied on by automakers, as it can help to prevent road noise and rust on the hoods and fenders of cars. Asphalt can also be a good solution for soil erosion and flood control.
The appearance of recycled asphalt may not be as dark and appealing as the new stuff, but there are so many positive reasons as to why it should be used wherever possible.
