How Do You Spell POROUS ASPHALT?

1. Porous asphalt, also known as permeable asphalt or pervious asphalt, is a type of pavement material specifically designed to allow rainwater and other natural liquids to pass through the surface and infiltrate into the ground below. Unlike traditional impermeable asphalt surfaces, which prevent water from seeping into the ground and contribute to runoff and water pollution, porous asphalt promotes natural drainage and helps to mitigate the effects of urbanization on the natural water cycle.

   Porous asphalt is made up of a combination of aggregates such as crushed stone, sand, and asphalt binder. The mixture is designed to create an interconnected network of void spaces that allow water to percolate through the surface and into the underlying soil layers. To enhance its permeability, the mixture is typically graded to provide larger void spaces and limit the amount of fine materials that would clog the pores.

   The ability of porous asphalt to allow water infiltration offers numerous environmental benefits. By reducing stormwater runoff, it helps to recharge groundwater supplies, maintain natural stream flow patterns, and prevent flooding. Additionally, the permeability of porous asphalt helps to filter pollutants and remove sediments from the runoff, thereby improving water quality.

   Furthermore, porous asphalt provides several advantages for road users. The pavement's porous structure allows for quicker drying after rainfall, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and improving traction. It also reduces surface temperatures during hot weather conditions, making it more comfortable for pedestrians and minimizing the urban heat island effect. Overall, porous asphalt is a sustainable and environmentally friendly pavement solution that provides both functional and ecological benefits.

The etymology of the term "porous asphalt" can be broken down as follows:

1. Porous: The word "porous" comes from the late Middle English word "poreus", which is derived from the Latin word "porus". "Porus" means "passage" or "pore" and can be traced back to the Ancient Greek word "poros", meaning "passage" or "porus". In the context of asphalt, "porous" refers to a material that has tiny openings or pores, allowing water to pass through.

2. Asphalt: The term "asphalt" is borrowed from the Middle French word "asphalte", which is derived from the Late Latin word "asphaltus".