CCCC Coal-Derived Asphalt

Led by scientists at Western Research Institute (WRI), a baseline formulation of coal-derived asphalt  (COphalt) has been produced using the extract intermediate that is yielded from solvent extraction of raw Powder River Basin coal. COphalt is an alternative to petroleum-based asphalt and can be customized to suit the properties required for either whole paving or roofing applications.

 

By taking Wyoming coal and converting it into a viscoelastic material and reacting it with different plant-based oils, the research team has formulated a high-performance asphalt binder. Additionally, Wyoming’s coal properties have allowed the team to engineer a consistent product and deliver it to a wide range of markets for testing and development.

 

Cradle-to-gate, COphalt from Powder River Basin coal emits less than 1/3 the amount of CO2 compared to conventional asphalt. With a very low volatile organic compound (VOC), coal derived asphalt meets the requirements outlined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Coal-Derived Asphalt

  • 3 Times less the amount of CO2 produced than conventional asphalt
  • Consistent chemistry
  • Engineered for different environments
  • Less sulfur compounds emitted, making Wyoming coal asphalt a safer alternative for construction workers

Petroleum-Based Asphalt

  • High-VOC and emits higher quantities of CO2
  • “Leftovers” from oil refinery/processing means inconsistent feedstock
  • Asphalt binders can leach into water supplies

Did you know?

The EPA is promulgating national emissions standards for the control of emissions of hazardous air pollutants (HAP) from the asphalt processing and asphalt roofing manufacturing area source category. These standards implement Section III of the Clean Air Act and are based on the Administrator’s determination that asphalt processing and asphalt roofing manufacture cause or contribute significantly to air pollution, which may reasonably be anticipated to endanger public health or welfare.

 

Wyoming Road Landscape Photo