What is the Difference Between Coal Tar and Bitumen?

Coal tar and bitumen are both thick, sticky, dark liquids composed mainly of carbon. However, they differ in their origin and composition:

• Coal Tar: This is a synthetic substance produced during the destructive distillation of coal to create coke, which is typically used in the production of steel. Coal tar is primarily composed of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), heterocyclic compounds, and phenols. It is commonly used as a sealing and waterproofing agent in construction.
• Bitumen: Also known as asphalt, bitumen is a naturally occurring substance found either in natural deposits or as a byproduct of refining processes. It is a composite material composed of mineral aggregates and bitumen, with varying degrees of hydrocarbon content. Bitumen has a wide range of applications, including road construction, where it serves as the glue or binder mixed with aggregates to create asphalt concrete.

In summary, the main difference between coal tar and bitumen is their origin: coal tar is synthetically produced from coal, while bitumen is a naturally occurring substance found in natural deposits or as a byproduct of refining processes.

Comparative Table: Coal Tar vs Bitumen

The key difference between coal tar and bitumen lies in their sources: coal tar is a synthetic substance, whereas bitumen is naturally occurring. Both are dark, thick, highly viscous liquids mainly composed of carbon atoms and are used in construction applications. Here is a table comparing their differences:

Coal tar is often used in medicine due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, antiparasitic, and antifungal properties, as well as in industrial applications for its flammable nature and sealing ability. Bitumen, also known as asphalt, is widely used in road construction as a binder for aggregates (stones and sand) and for waterproofing purposes, such as in roofing felt and damp-proof courses.