Asphaltic compositions and uses therefor

Abstract

Asphaltic concrete compounds comprised of asphalt cement and aggregate have, as a substantial portion of their respective aggregates, anthracite coal particles and fines, which are added specially as a lossy microwave material. These asphaltic concrete compounds are particularly useful when laid down as a pavement, or a top layer of a pavement, which thereafter can be freed of ice, by using microwave energy to debond the ice. The debonding of the ice occurs without causing any noticeable melting of the ice, and the debonded ice is thereafter easily lifted and removed from the pavement of the way, serving as a roadway, highway, runway, or walkway. Also these asphaltic concrete compounds are particularly useful as patching materials when damaged pavement is being repaired, especially during cold weather. They are used to coat the damaged pavement portions, creating a coating, to thereafter receive microwave energy, which results in the penetration of heat into both the coating and the portions of the damaged pavement. This heat insures their bond, and also the bond of the asphaltic concrete compound, which is filled into the damaged pavement cavities. Also the top layer and/or the entire filled cavities of the originally damaged pavement, include this asphaltic concrete compound, which has the anthracite coal, added as the lossy microwave material, to thereby facilitate the penetration of heat, which in turn insures the creation of strong bonds throughout the repaired pavement.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.