Last week we began going over the history of asphalt, from its ancient roots, all the way to its arrival in America. This week, we will continue exploring the journey of asphalt on its way to becoming one of the most important substances in America. Keep reading to learn the history of America’s obsession with asphalt.

The Competitive Edge

Soon after the paving of Pennsylvania Avenue, contractors rushed to trademark their specific form of asphalt composition. The first person to file a patent was Nathan B. Abbott, from New York, in 1871. There was a wide variety of types of patents.

  • Warren Brothers Company “Bitulithic” pavement. A mix of bitumen and aggregate.
  • Wilite
  • Romanite
  • National Pavement
  • Imperial
  • Indurite
  • Macasphalt

The asphalt industry was quickly adopted into the highly competitive capitalism of the late 19th century. That meant that technological innovation happened rapidly, but that restrictions were placed on the industry just as quickly.

Turn Of The Century Changes

For the rest of the 19th century, contractors used natural deposits of asphalt for paving. However, this all changed at the turn of the century. By the year 1907, contractors relied more heavily on plant-produced refined asphalt than natural asphalt deposits. Simultaneously, cars, and therefore roads were experiencing a massive surge in popularity. The demand for asphalt roads, with their smooth ride and low amount of dust, surged as well.

The first modern-ish asphalt plant was built in 1901 by the Warren Brothers near Boston Massachusetts. Slowly, the mechanization improved between 1900 through the 1930s. By the end of the decade, asphalt was absolutely essential to the function of the United States.

World War II

World War II led to massive leaps in asphalt development. The primary reason for this development was the distinct shift to reliance on military air power. Planes were substantially heavier than automobiles, so the asphalt needed to handle heavier loads. The end of the war led to the establishment of the suburbs and the consequent building boom.

Mid-Century Modern

The 1950s

Pavers bring in electronic leveling controls to ensure even roads. In the mid-50s, the United States Congress passed the State Highway Act. This allotted $51 billion to various states for major road construction.

The 1960s

Contractors introduce automated screen controls and wide finishers to their work. They increase efficiency and contractors can now finish off two lanes at one. Environmental concerns become a greater issues and plant owners installed environmental protections.

The 1980s

The material transfer vehicle (MTV) enters the field. The new vehicle accepts asphalt mix from trucks and passes it on to the paver.

Newer History

Asphalt is finding increasing applications in the United States. One of the biggest changes is the increasing use of asphalt for heavy duty work. The strength of the material, as well as the economic efficiency are primarily responsible for this rise. Primarily, this means asphalt runways for planes as well as pavement for freight yards.