Abstract: In a method of melting asphalt in a vessel, the molten asphalt normally emitting fumes, 0.2 weight percent to 6 weight percent of a polymer is added to the asphalt to reduce the visual opacity of the fumes by at least 25% over the same asphalt without the polymer. In another embodiment, the total emissions of benzene soluble suspended particulates is reduced by at least 15% over the same asphalt without the polymer. Preferably, the added polymer has a melt flow index of from 15 grams/10 minutes to 95 grams/10 minutes, and the added polymer reduces the visual opacity of the fumes by forming a skim on the upper surface of the molten asphalt.

Abstract: In a method for reducing hydrogen chloride emissions from an asphalt blowing process, ferric chloride and/or ferrous chloride are added to the asphalt. A chemical modifier is also added to the asphalt. The asphalt is subjected to a blowing process which produces hydrogen chloride emissions. The addition of the chemical modifier reduces the hydrogen chloride emissions by at least 25% compared to the same process without the addition of the chemical modifier. The addition of the ferric chloride and/or ferrous chloride provides beneficial effects such as increased blowing rate and increased final penetration of the asphalt. Preferably, the addition of the chemical modifier does not significantly reduce these beneficial effects.