Erica has wanted to be a travel writer since college and now as a mom of two, she's finally pursuing that dream. She takes pride in researching the best trip information and test driving the recommendations you'll find on this site. When she's not immersed in travel research you can find her with her kids or attempting to learn tennis (advice accepted!).
: In 1870, Belgian chemist Edmund J. DeSmedt laid the first true asphalt pavement in the U.S. in Newark, New Jersey. The Modern Era
For thousands of years, asphalt was a "miracle" substance found naturally in places like and the Dead Sea .
: Later builders realized that adding hot tar to these stones reduced dust and wear, creating "tarmacadam" (tarmac).
: The Babylonians used it as a mortar for brick walls and as a sealant for their famed Hanging Gardens .
: Today, asphalt is high-tech. Modern pavers use automation and thermal mapping to ensure the mix is laid at the perfect temperature (usually between 150°C and 170°C) to prevent cracks. The Future of the Road