What type of asphalt product is formed when petroleum distillates are mixed with asphalt cement?

Asphalt cutback is formed when petroleum distillates are mixed with asphalt cement. This process involves adding a volatile solvent to asphalt cement, which temporarily reduces its viscosity, allowing for easier handling and application, particularly in cold weather conditions or when rapid curing is necessary.

Cutbacks are particularly useful for applications where quick drying or setting is required, such as in construction tasks where immediate traffic access is a priority. The solvents used in cutbacks evaporate after application, leaving behind the asphalt component that binds materials together.

In contrast, asphalt emulsions involve the suspension of asphalt in water with the addition of an emulsifying agent, which differs from the cutback process. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for selecting the appropriate asphalt product based on specific project requirements.