is a solution of asphalt cement and a petroleum diluent. Upon exposure to the atmosphere, the diluent evaporates, leaving the asphalt cement to perform its function. There are three grades: RC asphalt — rapid curing cutback asphalt, composed of asphalt cement and a naphtha-type diluent of high volatility; MC asphalt — medium-curing asphalt, composed of asphalt cement and a kerosene-type diluent of medium volatility; SC asphalt — slow-curing cutback asphalt, composed of asphalt cement and a low-volatility oil. For industrial uses, oxidized asphalts can be blended with a petroleum diluent to meet the specific requirements of coatings, mastics, etc.

Also see asphalt, solvent-cutback.