
The elements of weather degrade the asphaltic oils from the surface and chemicals dissolve them away. Asphalt has very poor resistance to weathering and is easily attacked by chemicals, gasoline, oils, fats and deicing salts. The asphalt mix on the top of the pavement is, so to speak, the “roof” of the pavement as it repels water and keeps the underlying base dry and structurally stable.ĭespite its redeeming values as a paving material, asphalt has some major deficiencies. Additionally it has excellent binding (or cementing) properties to hold the aggregates in the pavement. INTRODUCTIONĪsphalt is used extensively for paving roads, parking lots, airfields, and many other surfaces because it has excellent waterproofing properties. Sealcoating specifications, delineating the proper ratios of various components in the mix design are of critical importance for the optimum performance of sealcoating systems.

Considering the myriad of such additives, it is imperative to understand the basic chemistries of such additives and recognize the ones that will truly enhance the performance of the sealcoating in terms of better flexibility, toughness, fuel & chemical resistance and overall longevity. Many latex polymers have been used for specific purposes ever since the introduction of sealcoatings. Additives are specialty chemicals and other substances that are added to enhance the performance properties of sealcoatings.

Sealcoatings are refined coal tar or asphalt emulsion based coatings, which are commonly used for the protection and preservation of off-street asphalt surfaces home driveways, parking lots, airports, gas stations, etc.
