How To Neutralize Gasoline-Soaked Asphalt
Things Needed
-
Cat litter
-
Broom
-
Dustpan
-
Hose
-
Dishwashing detergent
-
Scrub brush
-
Plastic scraper
Tip
Gas stations and other work areas where gasoline is used regularly would benefit from using concrete pavement, instead of asphalt. Substitute sawdust, powder or sand for the cat litter to absorb gasoline spills.
A gasoline spill on any pavement makes a mess, but when gasoline soaks asphalt, it can ruin the surface. When it's left to sit, the gas begins to eat away at the asphalt material. To avoid having the asphalt ruined, you must isolate, neutralize and remove the gasoline spill. By using a combination of quick action and effective supplies and removal techniques, you can remove the gasoline stain and the prevent damaging effects of gas.
Step 1
Cover the gasoline spill with a thick layer of cat litter to isolate the spill. Use enough litter to absorb the gasoline, adding more cat litter if needed.
Step 2
Sweep up the cat litter with a broom and dustpan.
Step 3
Wet the asphalt with water from the hose. Drizzle dishwashing detergent over the surface of the gasoline-stained asphalt.
Step 4
Scrub the dishwashing detergent to create a soapy lather on the asphalt. Allow the detergent solution to remain on the surface of the asphalt for 30 to 60 minutes to emulsify, causing the gasoline to be drawn out of the asphalt.
Step 5
Pour cat litter over the asphalt to absorb the detergent solution and soak up the remaining gasoline. Allow the cat litter and detergent solution combination to dry completely.
Step 6
Scrape the surface of the asphalt to remove the dried cat litter and detergent poultice. Rinse the asphalt with the hose to remove cat litter residue. Allow the surface to air-dry.