Asphalt Emulsion Production

To create an asphalt emulsion, the asphalt and water are blended by a colloid mill, which uses spinning discs to break the asphalt up into droplets so it can be dispersed into the water. Some water droplets may also end up inside the asphalt droplets, making this a “water-in-oil-in-water” or double emulsion. Typically an emulsifying agent or “soap” will be added to the emulsion, which helps the asphalt and water break apart and blend with each other. Polymers and chemical stabilizers may also be added depending on the desired properties of the emulsion.