Coal Tar vs. Asphalt: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on January 2, 2024
Coal tar is a byproduct of coal processing, used in sealants and medications, while asphalt, derived from petroleum, is primarily used in road construction.
Key Differences
Coal tar, a thick, dark liquid, is produced during the coal distillation process and is known for its waterproofing and preservative properties. Asphalt, on the other hand, is a sticky, black substance derived from the distillation process of crude oil, widely used in paving roads and highways. Both coal tar and asphalt are used in construction and industrial applications due to their binding and waterproofing qualities.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
In terms of composition, coal tar is a complex mixture of phenols, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and heterocyclic compounds. Asphalt primarily consists of bitumen, a viscous organic substance, along with mineral aggregates. While coal tar has a more varied chemical composition, asphalt is predominantly known for its bitumen content.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Coal tar is utilized in medical treatments for skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema due to its antiseptic properties. Asphalt, in contrast, is not used for medicinal purposes but is essential in construction for its durability and ability to form a smooth, solid surface. Both substances, however, require careful handling due to potential health risks associated with their components.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Environmental considerations differentiate coal tar and asphalt; coal tar can be more environmentally hazardous due to the presence of high levels of PAHs. Asphalt is considered more environmentally friendly and is often recycled in various applications. Both materials, nevertheless, pose environmental concerns and require proper disposal.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
In terms of applications, coal tar is also used in manufacturing coatings, sealants, and as a base for paints and varnishes. Asphalt is extensively used in road construction, roofing materials, and waterproofing products. Both coal tar and asphalt are integral to various industrial and construction processes, each with unique properties and uses.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
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Comparison Chart
Environmental Impact
Higher PAHs, more hazardous
More environmentally friendly
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Jan 02, 2024
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Coal Tar and Asphalt Definitions
Coal Tar
Used in the production of coatings and paints.
The boat's hull was coated with a layer of coal tar for protection.
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Dec 20, 2023
Asphalt
Often recycled in construction projects.
Recycled asphalt was used to reduce the environmental impact of the highway project.
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Dec 20, 2023
Coal Tar
Known for its medicinal properties in treating skin conditions.
She used a coal tar-based shampoo for her scalp psoriasis.
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Dec 20, 2023
Asphalt
Known for its durability and ability to form smooth surfaces.
The freshly laid asphalt created a perfect surface for the new bike path.
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Dec 20, 2023
Coal Tar
Contains a complex mixture of organic chemicals.
Researchers analyzed the chemical composition of coal tar for potential applications.
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Dec 20, 2023
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Asphalt
A sticky, black substance used mainly in paving roads.
The city contracted for the laying of new asphalt on Main Street.
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Dec 20, 2023
Coal Tar
A byproduct of coal distillation, used in industrial applications.
The company used coal tar to produce waterproof sealants.
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Dec 20, 2023
Asphalt
Derived from the distillation of crude oil.
Asphalt production increased with the rise in demand for road construction materials.
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Dec 20, 2023
Coal Tar
A dark, viscous liquid with antiseptic qualities.
Coal tar was historically used as a disinfectant in medical settings.
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Dec 20, 2023
Asphalt
A mixture of bitumen with crushed stone gravel or sand, used for paving or roofing.
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Dec 13, 2023
Asphalt
A sticky, black and highly viscous liquid or semi-solid, composed almost entirely of bitumen, that is present in most crude petroleums and in some natural deposits.
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Dec 13, 2023
Asphalt
Ellipsis of asphalt concrete, a hard ground covering used for roads and walkways.
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Dec 13, 2023
Asphalt
Mineral pitch, Jews' pitch, or compact native bitumen. It is brittle, of a black or brown color and high luster on a surface of fracture; it melts and burns when heated, leaving no residue. It occurs on the surface and shores of the Dead Sea, which is therefore called Asphaltites, or the Asphaltic Lake. It is found also in many parts of Asia, Europe, and America. See Bitumen.
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Dec 13, 2023
Asphalt
A composition of bitumen, pitch, lime, and gravel, used for forming pavements, and as a water-proof cement for bridges, roofs, etc.; asphaltic cement. Artificial asphalt is prepared from coal tar, lime, sand, etc.
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Dec 13, 2023
Asphalt
Mixed asphalt and crushed gravel or sand; used especially for paving but also for roofing
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Dec 13, 2023
Asphalt
A dark bituminous substance found in natural beds and as residue from petroleum distillation; consists mainly of hydrocarbons
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Dec 13, 2023
Asphalt
Used in roofing and waterproofing applications.
The new building's roof was covered with asphalt shingles for better water resistance.
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Dec 20, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
What is the main use of asphalt?
The main use of asphalt is in road construction, creating durable and smooth surfaces.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Can coal tar be used medicinally?
Yes, coal tar is used in treatments for skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
What is asphalt?
Asphalt is a sticky, black substance derived from petroleum, primarily used in road construction and roofing.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Is coal tar used in road construction?
Coal tar is not typically used in road construction; it's more common in sealants and medicinal applications.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
What is coal tar?
Coal tar is a byproduct of coal distillation, used in sealants, medicinal treatments, and industrial applications.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Are coal tar and asphalt environmentally friendly?
Coal tar can be hazardous due to PAHs, while asphalt is more environmentally friendly and often recycled.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
What are the differences in composition between coal tar and asphalt?
Coal tar contains phenols and PAHs, while asphalt is mainly composed of bitumen and mineral aggregates.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Is asphalt environmentally hazardous?
While asphalt is more environmentally friendly than coal tar, improper handling and disposal can pose environmental risks.
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Jan 02, 2024
How is coal tar produced?
Coal tar is produced during the process of coal distillation.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Can asphalt be recycled?
Yes, asphalt is often recycled and reused in various construction projects.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
What are the health risks associated with coal tar?
Coal tar can pose health risks due to its high levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
What are the applications of asphalt in construction?
Asphalt is used in road paving, roofing materials, and waterproofing products.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Why is coal tar used in skin treatment products?
Coal tar has antiseptic properties and is effective in treating certain skin conditions.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Is asphalt used in medicinal applications?
No, asphalt is not used medicinally. Its primary use is in construction and industrial applications.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Can coal tar be used in paint production?
Yes, coal tar is used as a base for certain types of paints and varnishes.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Is the production of asphalt linked to the petroleum industry?
Yes, asphalt production is directly linked to the petroleum industry as it is derived from crude oil distillation.
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Jan 02, 2024
What makes asphalt suitable for road construction?
Asphalt's durability and ability to form smooth, solid surfaces make it ideal for road construction.
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Jan 02, 2024
Are there alternatives to coal tar in industrial applications?
Yes, there are various alternative products and materials that can be used in place of coal tar.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
How does the environmental impact of coal tar compare to asphalt?
Coal tar has a higher environmental impact due to its toxic components, whereas asphalt is less harmful.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
Can coal tar be used in roofing?
Coal tar can be used in certain types of industrial roofing, particularly for its waterproofing properties.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 02, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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