Coal Tar Testing for Reclaimed Asphalt: Identify Risk, Classify Correctly
Coal tar testing is essential when managing reclaimed asphalt, because the presence of coal tar can significantly change how the material must be handled, reused, recycled, or disposed of. A structured testing approach (such as the ADEPT methodology) helps highway authorities, contractors, and asset managers make safe, compliant decisions.
Testing typically follows a tiered process:
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Historical and visual assessment (pavement age, records, tar odour, binder appearance)
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On-site screening (rapid indicators such as spray/UV methods)
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Laboratory confirmation (the critical stage), including PAH profiling, benzo(a)pyrene, and analytical testing such as GC-MS where required
Laboratory results are then used to help classify the material and determine the correct management route. If coal tar is confirmed, stricter controls may apply for segregation, storage, transport, reuse, and disposal, with appropriate documentation to support duty of care and compliance.
Why choose The Testing Lab PLC?
At The Testing Lab PLC, we provide clear, decision-ready coal tar testing reports to help you classify reclaimed asphalt with confidence. Our practical, reliable service supports compliant project planning, reduces delays, and helps protect workers and the environment.
Need coal tar testing for reclaimed asphalt? Contact The Testing Lab PLC to discuss your samples and turnaround requirements.
Dear The Testing Lab PLC,
Many thanks for your prompt and professional asbestos survey report service, I would not hesitate to recommend your company in this regard.
This must be an absolute record for getting a report back, considering the surveyor arrived around 3pm – very well done!
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Bradley, thank you for your efforts at short notice today, please pass on our gratitude to your surveyor Tim who did your company proud!
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Your analyst, Lee, was very helpful and his suggestions and advice appreciated.
We would have no hesitation in recommending The Testing Lab and will be in touch soon with regards arrangements for a full asbestos survey for the rest of the site.
TTL have been working directly as my analyst for the last 12 months on a very complex asbestos removal scheme, they have achieved all of their KPI’s without fail and on a number of occasions surpassed their SLA in acting for us on planning issues associated with the demolition in regard to contamination which cannot be removed as part of the normal sequence of operation.
There reports are always issued within timescales and they have policed the reports by the Licensed asbestos contractor faultlessly sometimes in very difficult circumstances.
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