Abstract: A process is provided for producing an improved asphalt composition is air blown for a reduced period of time prior to addition of polyphosphoric acid. The air blowing process is performed at temperatures and using air volumes typically used for air blown asphalt. The process may be performed using neat asphalt, or it may be used on mixtures of asphalt with flux, slop, or mixtures of flux and slop. After the initial air blowing period, polyphosphoric acid is added to the asphalt. The polyphosphoric acid may be added while the asphalt is at temperature, or the asphalt may be allowed to cool slightly before the addition of the polyphosphoric acid. Following addition of the polyphosphoric acid, the asphalt may undergo further air blowing to obtain desired properties.