ASTM D7113/D7113M-10(2016)

Standard Test Method for Density of Bituminous Paving Mixtures in Place by the Electromagnetic Surface Contact Methods

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 The test method described is useful as a rapid, nondestructive technique for determining the in-place density or relative compaction of compacted bituminous mixtures.  
3.2 The test method can be used to establish the proper rolling effort and pattern to achieve the required density.  
3.3 The non-destructive nature of the test allows repetitive measurements to be made at a single test location between roller passes or at multiple locations across the mat to monitor changes in density.  
3.4 The density results obtained by this test method are relative. Device calibration (correlation with other test methods] is required to convert the results obtained using this method to actual density. Section 6 of this test method describes a method that has proven to be acceptable for correlation.
Note 1: The personnel and equipment used in performing this test can be evaluated in accordance with Specification D3666.
Note 2: Research and evaluation of devices used in this test method has been conducted. Reference is made to “Evaluation of Non-Nuclear Gauges to Measure Density of Hot-Mixed Asphalt Pavements,” a pooled fund study, Pedro Romero, Ph.D., P.E., July 2002.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the procedures for determining the in-place density and relative compaction of bituminous concrete pavement paving mixtures by an electromagnetic surface contact device by measuring changes in the electromagnetic field resulting from the compaction process.  
1.2 The equipment referenced in this method is a surface contact device, which must accommodate surface moisture and temperature variation in the range typically encountered in paving applications. This can be accomplished by design parameters that reduce the device’s sensitivity to surface moisture and temperature variation or by measurements and algorithms to account for surface moisture and temperature variance in the rolling pattern.  
1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices prior to use.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Apr-2016
• ICS: 93.080.20 - Road construction materials
• Technical Committee: D04 - Road and Paving Materials
• Drafting Committee: D04.21 - Specific Gravity and Density of Asphalt Mixtures

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D7113/D7113M-10 - Standard Test Method for Density of Bituminous Paving Mixtures in Place by the Electromagnetic Surface Contact Methods
• Effective Date: 01-May-2016
• Refers: ASTM C670-24a - Standard Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM C670-24 - Standard Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM D3666-16 - Standard Specification for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Testing and Inspecting Road and Paving Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2016
• Refers: ASTM D3666-13 - Standard Specification for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Testing and Inspecting Road and Paving Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2013
• Refers: ASTM C670-13 - Standard Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2013
• Refers: ASTM D3665-12 - Standard Practice for Random Sampling of Construction Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2012
• Refers: ASTM D2726-11 - Standard Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Non-Absorptive Compacted Bituminous Mixtures
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2011
• Refers: ASTM D3666-11 - Standard Specification for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Testing and Inspecting Road and Paving Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2011
• Refers: ASTM C670-10 - Standard Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2010
• Refers: ASTM D2726-10 - Standard Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Non-Absorptive Compacted Bituminous Mixtures
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2010
• Refers: ASTM D6752-09 - Standard Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Compacted Bituminous Mixtures Using Automatic Vacuum Sealing Method
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2009
• Refers: ASTM D3666-09a - Standard Specification for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Testing and Inspecting Road and Paving Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2009
• Refers: ASTM D2726-09 - Standard Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Non-Absorptive Compacted Bituminous Mixtures
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2009
• Refers: ASTM D2726-08 - Standard Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Non-Absorptive Compacted Bituminous Mixtures
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2008

Overview

ASTM D7113/D7113M-10(2016), Standard Test Method for Density of Bituminous Paving Mixtures in Place by the Electromagnetic Surface Contact Methods, provides a comprehensive procedure for determining the in-place density and relative compaction of bituminous (asphalt) concrete pavement using electromagnetic surface contact devices. This method emphasizes rapid, nondestructive testing, contributing to quality control in pavement construction by enabling real-time density evaluations. The standard is maintained by ASTM Committee D04 on Road and Paving Materials and aligns with globally recognized principles for developing international standards.

Key Topics

• In-place Density Evaluation: Measures changes in the electromagnetic field as bituminous mixtures are compacted, providing quick assessment of the pavement's in-situ density.
• Nondestructive Testing: The method allows for repeated testing at the same location or across multiple locations without damaging the pavement, making it ideal for monitoring rolling patterns and compaction progress in real time.
• Calibration Requirements: Since density results are relative, device calibration is essential. Users must correlate results with established methods, such as core sampling (ASTM D1188, D2726, D6752) to ensure accuracy.
• Environmental Adaptability: Equipment must operate effectively under varying levels of surface moisture and temperature, typical for paving processes. Devices may include design features or software algorithms to adjust for these conditions.
• Data Collection and Reporting: The standard details necessary reporting requirements, including job identification, calibration data, individual readings, average density, and environmental or material conditions that may influence results.
• Precision Considerations: The procedure includes recommendations for minimizing variability and details on the expected range of measurement precision and bias.

Applications

ASTM D7113/D7113M-10(2016) is designed for a variety of practical applications within the construction and maintenance of paved surfaces, such as:

• Quality Control in Asphalt Paving: Enables contractors, engineers, and inspectors to monitor and verify that compaction levels meet specified requirements throughout the paving process.
• Optimizing Rolling Patterns: Facilitates the determination of proper rolling effort and number of passes needed to achieve uniform pavement density, reducing the likelihood of over- or under-compacted areas.
• Non-nuclear Density Measurement: Offers an alternative to nuclear density gauges, addressing safety and regulatory concerns associated with radioactive materials.
• Rapid Assessment for Project Efficiency: Supports quick, field-based decision-making and adjustments, improving efficiency on paving projects and reducing project delays due to slow laboratory turnaround.
• Routine Field Assessments: Useful for state departments of transportation (DOTs), quality control labs, and contractors conducting daily compaction control and verification.

Related Standards

Practitioners using ASTM D7113/D7113M-10(2016) may also reference the following related ASTM standards to supplement procedures or verify test results:

• ASTM D1188: Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Compacted Bituminous Mixtures Using Coated Samples
• ASTM D2726: Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Non-Absorptive Compacted Asphalt Mixtures
• ASTM D3665: Practice for Random Sampling of Construction Materials
• ASTM D3666: Specification for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Testing and Inspecting Road and Paving Materials
• ASTM D5361: Practice for Sampling Compacted Bituminous Mixtures for Laboratory Testing
• ASTM D6752: Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Compacted Bituminous Mixtures Using Automatic Vacuum Sealing Method
• ASTM C670: Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials

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Leveraging the ASTM D7113/D7113M-10(2016) standard ensures reliable, efficient, and nondestructive measurement of bituminous pavement density, supporting best practices in pavement construction and quality assurance. Use of electromagnetic surface contact methods enhances field testing efficiency while maintaining adherence to international quality standards.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D7113/D7113M − 10 (Reapproved 2016)
Standard Test Method for
Density of Bituminous Paving Mixtures in Place by the
Electromagnetic Surface Contact Methods
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D7113/D7113M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This test method covers the procedures for determining
C670 Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements
the in-place density and relative compaction of bituminous
for Test Methods for Construction Materials
concrete pavement paving mixtures by an electromagnetic
D1188 TestMethodforBulkSpecificGravityandDensityof
surface contact device by measuring changes in the electro-
Compacted Bituminous Mixtures Using Coated Samples
magnetic field resulting from the compaction process.
D2726 Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density
1.2 The equipment referenced in this method is a surface
of Non-Absorptive Compacted Asphalt Mixtures
contact device, which must accommodate surface moisture and
D3665 Practice for Random Sampling of Construction Ma-
temperature variation in the range typically encountered in
terials
paving applications. This can be accomplished by design
D3666 Specification for Minimum Requirements for Agen-
parameters that reduce the device’s sensitivity to surface
cies Testing and Inspecting Road and Paving Materials
moisture and temperature variation or by measurements and
D5361 Practice for Sampling Compacted Bituminous Mix-
algorithms to account for surface moisture and temperature
tures for Laboratory Testing
variance in the rolling pattern.
D6752 Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density
of Compacted Bituminous Mixtures Using Automatic
1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
Vacuum Sealing Method
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
3. Significance and Use
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
3.1 The test method described is useful as a rapid, nonde-
values from the two systems may result in non-conformance
structive technique for determining the in-place density or
with the standard.
relative compaction of compacted bituminous mixtures.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
3.2 The test method can be used to establish the proper
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
rolling effort and pattern to achieve the required density.
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3.3 The non-destructive nature of the test allows repetitive
priate safety and health practices prior to use.
measurements to be made at a single test location between
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
roller passes or at multiple locations across the mat to monitor
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
changes in density.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
3.4 The density results obtained by this test method are
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
relative. Device calibration (correlation with other test meth-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
ods] is required to convert the results obtained using this
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
method to actual density. Section 6 of this test method
describes a method that has proven to be acceptable for
correlation.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D04 on Road
and Paving Materials and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D04.21 on
Specific Gravity and Density of Asphalt Mixtures. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved May 1, 2016. Published May 2016. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 2005. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as D7113 – 10. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/D7113_D7113M-10R16. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D7113/D7113M − 10 (2016)
NOTE 1—The personnel and equipment used in performing this test can
6.2 Record the calibration method used and the specific
be evaluated in accordance with Specification D3666.
values obtained for future use of the device on the same type
NOTE 2—Research and evaluation of devices used in this test method
of material.
has been conducted. Reference is made to “Evaluation of Non-Nuclear
Gauges to Measure Density of Hot-Mixed Asphalt Pavements,” a pooled
6.3 The calibration must be conducted on the mat within the
fund study, Pedro Romero, Ph.D., P.E., July 2002.
mat temperature range that will be encountered during subse-
quent testing.
4. Interferences
6.4 The core calibration allows the device to be offset to a
4.1 Electromagnetic force fields such as high-tension power
specific density measured using Test Method D1188, Test
lines, or large metal objects in close proximity may interfere
Method D2726, or Test Method D6752.
with the device reading.
6.4.1 Identify three to ten test locations withina3m[10ft]
length in the direction of the paving train on the mat.
4.2 The chemical composition of the material being tested
6.4.2 At each location take a minimum of four measure-
may significantly affect the measurement and adjustments may
ments following the device manufacturer’s recommendation
be necessary. The device can be calibrated to the specific mix
for seating the device on the pavement and the procedures of
design being used in the field.
operation noted in 7.7.
4.3 The test method exhibits spatial bias in that the device is
6.4.3 Record each individual measurement and the average
most sensitive to the density of the material in closest prox-
for each location.
imity to the sensor.
6.4.4 Cut a 150 mm [6 in.] core from the pavement location
4.4 The surface texture of the material being tested may in accordance with Practice D5361 and proceed with the
cause lower than actual density determination. appropriate test method for determining the bulk specific
gravity of the compacted specimen.
4.5 Oversize aggregate particles in the sensor path may
6.4.5 Averagealldevicereadings.Averageallcoremeasure-
cause variations in density determination.
ments. Compare these values to determine a device offset.
4.6 The actual sample volume varies with the apparatus and
6.4.6 Offsetthedevicereadingtoreflectthevaluederivedin
the density of the material. In general, the higher the density
step 6.4.5.
the smaller the volume (see Note 3).
7. Procedure of Operation
NOTE 3—The volume of field compacted material represented by a test
7.1 The device should be turned on sufficiently in advance
can effectively be increased by repeating the test at adjacent locations and
averaging the results.
of taking any readings to allow the device to stabilize.
7.2 Standardize the device using the manufacturer’s proce-
5. Apparatus
dures as described in the device operation manual.
5.1 Electronic Sensing Device—An electronic counting
7.3 Select a test location in accordance with the project
device, capable of being seated on the surface of the material
specifications,or,ifnototherwisespecified,inaccordancewith
under test, and which meets the outline below:
Practice D3665.
5.1.1 The device shall be housed in an enclosure of heavy-
7.4 Ensure that no sources of elect
...