What are "asphalt emulsions"?

Asphalt emulsions are specifically defined as suspensions of asphalt binder in water, stabilized by an emulsifying agent. This formulation allows the asphalt to remain dispersed in water, enabling easier application and use, particularly in construction and maintenance projects. The emulsifying agent helps to create a stable mixture, ensuring that the asphalt does not separate from the water phase over time.

This property of emulsions makes them highly versatile for various applications, including surface treatments, road construction, and maintenance, where neat asphalt may be too viscous or challenging to work with in its pure form. The water component aids in the mixing process, and once the emulsified asphalt is applied, the water evaporates, leaving behind a layer of asphalt that binds materials together effectively.

Understanding the composition and behavior of asphalt emulsions is crucial for professionals in the field, as they must know how to handle and apply these products to achieve optimal performance in road construction and repair.