What is the Difference Between Tarmac Asphalt and Bitumen?

Tarmac, asphalt, and bitumen are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences. Here's a breakdown of their characteristics:

• Tarmac: Tarmac, also known as tarmacadam, is a mix of aggregates and tar. It is a specific type of surfacing material used in road construction and has a long history of use in the UK and other countries. Tarmac is not as resistant to extreme weather conditions and requires more maintenance than asphalt.
• Asphalt: Asphalt is a mixture of aggregates and bitumen. It is a popular choice for road surfacing due to its strength, durability, and relatively low cost. Over 95% of UK roads and more than 90% of European roads use asphalt as their primary surfacing material. Asphalt is also more environmentally friendly than tarmac, as it can be reused and recycled.
• Bitumen: Bitumen is the liquid binder that holds asphalt together. It is created by distilling crude oil, which removes the lighter liquid and leaves a thick, sticky substance that holds heavy aggregate like stones and gravel with sand. Bitumen is often mistakenly used to describe asphalt, but they are not the same material.

In summary, tarmac and asphalt are both used in road construction, but they have different compositions and properties. Tarmac is a mix of aggregates and tar, while asphalt is a mix of aggregates and bitumen. Asphalt is more durable and environmentally friendly than tarmac, making it a more popular choice for road surfacing.

Comparative Table: Tarmac Asphalt vs Bitumen

Here is a table comparing the differences between tarmac (or tarmacadam), asphalt, and bitumen:

Tarmac, also known as tarmacadam, is a blend of tar and aggregates, while asphalt is a blend of bitumen and aggregates. Bitumen, on the other hand, is a liquid binder that holds asphalt together by binding heavy aggregate like stones, gravel, and sand.