It’s a fact of life that everything ages, and oxidation is a big part of why this happens. And, it’s not just iron – even asphalt paving and, in fact, cells in the human body!
This makes the job of any contractor involved in asphalt challenging as oxidation happens right at the moment it’s exposed to air, whether you’ve laid it out or not.
What Is Asphalt Oxidation?
As the name suggests, oxidation is the exposure of any substance to oxygen. This degrades the material’s molecular structure, and, while it doesn’t break it right away, it starts to happen the very moment it comes into contact with air.
Note that not all materials “break” when exposed to oxygen. For example, iron rusts while colors fade. Wine also loses its crispness and freshness.
Oxidation in asphalt, meanwhile, takes a more structural effect. Oxygen destroys asphalt’s molecular bonds, which, over time, makes the entire thing brittle and frail. Trouble is, when it starts, the degradation accelerates. As the brittle asphalt cracks, it lets in more water and oxygen, which further exacerbates the oxidation process.
The question is, how do you stop this thing from happening?
Choose the Bonness Inc. difference when you’re looking for paving contractors. We are the top authority when it comes to asphalt and concrete. Learn the difference we can make by reaching out to us at (239) 597-6221.