: Phoenicians and Egyptians used natural bitumen (asphalt) to waterproof their ships , ensuring the wood survived long voyages. The Industrial Revolution
The story of asphalt is one of transformation—from a rare natural resource found in ancient pits to the literal foundation of modern global travel. The Ancient Origins asphalt
For thousands of years, asphalt was a "miracle" substance found naturally in places like and the Dead Sea . : Phoenicians and Egyptians used natural bitumen (asphalt)
: In 1870, Belgian chemist Edmund J. DeSmedt laid the first true asphalt pavement in the U.S. in Newark, New Jersey. The Modern Era : In 1870, Belgian chemist Edmund J
Modern asphalt began with two Scottish engineers in the early 19th century:
Asphalt is now one of the most recycled materials in the world. Old roads are ground up, reheated, and laid down again as "Recycled Asphalt Pavement" (RAP), making the "story" of a single piece of road one that can repeat for decades. One Bumpy Ride: The Evolution of Asphalt | by Ernie Smith
As cars replaced horses, the demand for smooth, durable roads skyrocketed.