What is Tar?

Tar is a black, viscous, hydrocarbon material that is derived from the distillation of coal and other organic materials such as wood. The tar is often refined further to become asphalt, which is used in various applications in construction, paving, and road building. Tar is a by-product of the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, giving off a flammable and smoky smell when burnt. Tar has been in use since antiquity, when it was used as a binding agent and sealant.

Uses of Tar

Tar is used in many applications relating to carpentry, masonry, and roofing. It also serves as an adhesive, sealant, and waterproofing material. It is also commonly used in shipbuilding and for erecting dock buildings. In addition to its uses in construction, tar is used for fireproofing, coal gasification, and road paving. It is also used as an antiseptic to form protective barriers on wood and metal.

Environmental Impact

The use of tar has caused concerns in relation to air and water pollution. Tar-based products and the burning of these materials release a variety of pollutants into the environment, such as nitrogen oxides, volatile organic compounds, and carbon dioxide. These pollutants can have a serious impact on soil and water quality, as well as human health. Asphalt production, in particular, has been known to negatively affect air quality, with emissions of toxic chemicals and particulate matter increasing significantly during the paving process.

In addition to air and water pollution, the improper disposal of tar-based materials can also be a major source of environmental contamination. Used tar products can leach toxic chemicals, such as benzene, into the soil and groundwater. These toxins can then enter the food chain and cause toxicological problems in animals and humans.

Despite the environmental concerns of tar and its usage, it remains a popular source of material in the construction, paving, and fireproofing industries. Tar is relatively cheap and easy to produce and process, which makes it a viable option for many applications. To combat the potential environmental impacts of tar, technological advancements in tar production and usage are being continuously made, such as the use of low-volatile tar for road paving.