ASTM D1188/D1188M-22

Standard Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Compacted Asphalt Mixtures Using Coated Samples

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 This test method is useful in calculating percent air voids as given in Test Method D3203/D3203M. Since specific gravity has no units, it must be converted to density when this type of measurement is required. This conversion is made by multiplying the specific gravity at a given temperature by the density of water at the same temperature.
Note 2: The quality of the results produced by this standard are dependent on the competence of the personnel performing the procedure and the capability, calibration, and maintenance of the equipment used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Specification D3666 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing, sampling, inspection, etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Specification D3666 alone does not completely ensure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; following the suggestions of Specification D3666 or some similar acceptable guideline provides a means of evaluating and controlling some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of bulk specific gravity of specimens of Parafilm-coated, compacted asphalt mixtures.  
1.2 This method should be used with samples that contain open or interconnecting voids or absorb more than 2.0 % of water by volume, or both.
Note 1: A method for calculating the percent water absorbed by the specimen on a volume basis is described in Test Method D2726/D2726M.  
1.3 The bulk specific gravity of the compacted asphalt mixtures may be used in calculating the unit weight of the mixture.  
1.4 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 nonconformance with the standard.  
1.5 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.  
1.6 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.7 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.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-Jun-2022
• ICS: 91.100.50 - Binders. Sealing materials
• 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

• Refers: ASTM D4753-24 - Standard Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Balances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and Construction Materials Testing
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM D2726/D2726M-17 - Standard Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Non-Absorptive Compacted Asphalt Mixtures
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2017
• 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 D4753-15 - Standard Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Balances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and Construction Materials Testing
• Effective Date: 01-May-2015
• Refers: ASTM D5361/D5361M-14 - Standard Practice for Sampling Compacted Bituminous Mixtures for Laboratory Testing
• Effective Date: 07-Mar-2014
• 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 D2726/D2726M-13 - Standard Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Non-Absorptive Compacted Bituminous Mixtures
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2013
• Refers: ASTM E1-13 - Standard Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers
• Effective Date: 01-May-2013
• Refers: ASTM D979/D979M-12 - Standard Practice for Sampling Bituminous Paving Mixtures
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2012
• Refers: ASTM D1461-11 - Standard Test Method for Moisture or Volatile Distillates in Bituminous Paving Mixtures
• Effective Date: 15-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 D3203/D3203M-11 - Standard Test Method for Percent Air Voids in Compacted Dense and Open Bituminous Paving Mixtures
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2011
• Refers: ASTM D979/D979M-11 - Standard Practice for Sampling Bituminous Paving Mixtures
• Effective Date: 15-Jun-2011
• Refers: ASTM D5361/D5361M-11 - Standard Practice for Sampling Compacted Bituminous Mixtures for Laboratory Testing
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2011
• Refers: ASTM D5361/D5361M-11a - Standard Practice for Sampling Compacted Bituminous Mixtures for Laboratory Testing
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2011

Overview

ASTM D1188/D1188M-22 is the internationally recognized Standard Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Compacted Asphalt Mixtures Using Coated Samples. Developed by ASTM International, this standard provides a reliable laboratory procedure to determine the bulk specific gravity of compacted asphalt (bituminous) paving mixtures, particularly where open or interconnecting voids or high water absorption may affect accuracy.

This test method is essential in evaluating the density and air void content in asphalt pavements, factors that significantly impact pavement durability and service performance. It involves coating the compacted asphalt specimen with Parafilm to prevent water penetration, improving measurement accuracy for samples that absorb more than 2.0% water by volume.

Key Topics

• Bulk Specific Gravity Measurement
  The standard details a test procedure for measuring the bulk specific gravity of Parafilm-coated, compacted asphalt mixtures. This value is crucial for further density calculations and quality assessment.

• Sample Requirement and Preparation
  The method recommends its use for specimens with high water absorption or interconnected voids and prescribes specific procedures for sample molding, extraction, and drying.

• Density Calculation
  Since specific gravity is dimensionless, the document explains the conversion to density by multiplying with the density of water at the test temperature.

• Use of SI and Inch-Pound Units
  Measurements can be reported in either International System of Units (SI) or inch-pound units, but not mixed to ensure compliance.

• Quality Assurance Factors
  The precision of results relies on personnel competence, equipment calibration, and adherence to relevant standards such as ASTM D3666.

• Moisture Correction
  The test includes procedures for moisture correction when samples are not dried prior to testing to ensure accurate bulk specific gravity values.

Applications

• Pavement Quality Control
  This method is widely used by construction agencies, laboratories, and transportation departments to verify asphalt pavement compaction and quality. Accurate bulk specific gravity determinations allow calculation of air voids, a critical performance metric.

• Mixture Design Verification
  Assists in asphalt mixture design processes by reliably quantifying density and void content, informing adjustments to materials or compaction processes to meet specification.

• Forensic and Maintenance Evaluations
  Utilized for core samples taken from in-service pavements to assess degradation, compaction quality, and need for maintenance or rehabilitation.

• Regulatory Compliance and Research
  Supports compliance with local, national, and international regulations for road and highway materials and is used in research focused on advancing pavement materials science.

Related Standards

• ASTM D3203/D3203M - Standard Test Method for Percent Air Voids in Compacted Asphalt Mixtures
• ASTM D2726/D2726M - Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Non-Absorptive Compacted Asphalt Mixtures
• ASTM D3666 - Specification for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Testing and Inspecting Road and Paving Materials
• ASTM D979/D979M - Practice for Sampling Bituminous Paving Mixtures
• ASTM D5361/D5361M - Practice for Sampling Compacted Asphalt Mixtures for Laboratory Testing
• ASTM D1461 - Test Method for Moisture or Volatile Distillates in Asphalt Mixtures
• ASTM D6752/D7227/D7227M - Test Methods for Bulk Specific Gravity and Rapid Drying of Compacted Asphalt Mixtures
• ASTM E1137/E1137M - Specification for Industrial Platinum Resistance Thermometers

Practical Value

By following ASTM D1188/D1188M-22, organizations can ensure accurate, consistent measurement of bulk specific gravity and density in challenging asphalt mixtures. This builds confidence in pavement performance, supports mixture design, and meets quality assurance protocols in line with international best practices for road construction and maintenance. Incorporating this test method improves reliability in test results and contributes to longer-lasting, safer pavement structures.

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:D1188/D1188M −22
Standard Test Method for
Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Compacted Asphalt
Mixtures Using Coated Samples
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D1188/D1188M; 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.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope 2. Referenced Documents
1.1 This test method covers the determination of bulk 2.1 ASTM Standards:
specific gravity of specimens of Parafilm-coated, compacted D979/D979MPractice for Sampling Bituminous Paving
asphalt mixtures. Mixtures
D1461Test Method for Moisture or Volatile Distillates in
1.2 This method should be used with samples that contain
Asphalt Mixtures
open or interconnecting voids or absorb more than 2.0% of
D2726/D2726MTest Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and
water by volume, or both.
Density of Non-Absorptive Compacted Asphalt Mixtures
NOTE 1—A method for calculating the percent water absorbed by the
D3203/D3203MTest Method for PercentAirVoids in Com-
specimenonavolumebasisisdescribedinTestMethodD2726/D2726M.
pacted Asphalt Mixtures
1.3 The bulk specific gravity of the compacted asphalt
D3666Specification for Minimum Requirements for Agen-
mixtures may be used in calculating the unit weight of the
cies Testing and Inspecting Road and Paving Materials
mixture.
D4753Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Bal-
ances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and
1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
Construction Materials Testing
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
D5361/D5361MPractice for Sampling Compacted Asphalt
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
Mixtures for Laboratory Testing
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
D7227/D7227MPractice for Rapid Drying of Compacted
values from the two systems may result in nonconformance
Asphalt Mixture Specimens Using Vacuum DryingAppa-
with the standard.
ratus
1.5 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes
E1Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers
which provide explanatory material.These notes and footnotes
E1137/E1137MSpecification for Industrial Platinum Resis-
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered
tance Thermometers
as requirements of the standard.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
3. Significance and Use
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
3.1 This test method is useful in calculating percent air
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
voids as given in Test Method D3203/D3203M. Since specific
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
gravity has no units, it must be converted to density when this
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
type of measurement is required. This conversion is made by
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
multiplying the specific gravity at a given temperature by the
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
density of water at the same temperature.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
NOTE 2—The quality of the results produced by this standard are
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
dependent on the competence of the personnel performing the procedure
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
and the capability, calibration, and maintenance of the equipment used.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Agencies that meet the criteria of Specification D3666 are generally
considered capable of competent and objective testing, sampling,
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 June 15, 2022. Published June 2022. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1951. Last previous edition approved in 2015 as D1188–07 (2015). Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/D1188_D1188M-22. the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D1188/D1188M−22
inspection, etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with
mately the same diameter of the specimen (interface between
Specification D3666 alone does not completely ensure reliable results.
specimen and load used to press film onto surface).
Reliable results depend on many factors; following the suggestions of
Specification D3666 or some similar acceptable guideline provides a NOTE 7—The soft, compressible interface between the counter and
means of evaluating and controlling some of those factors.
specimen, and between the top of the specimen helps minimize the
potential for sharp aggregate edges to puncture the film.
4. Apparatus
5.3 Calibration Specimen—A smooth-sided aluminum cyl-
inder approximately the same size as the asphalt mixture
4.1 Balance, with ample capacity and with sufficient sensi-
specimens being tested.
tivity to enable bulk specific gravities to the specimens to be
calculated to at least four significant figures, that is, to at least
NOTE 8—Aluminum is used for the calibration specimen because it is
three decimal places. It shall be equipped with a suitable
readily available from local machine shops and has a specific gravity that
is close to that of traditional compacted dense-graded asphalt mixture
apparatus to permit weighing the specimen while it is sus-
specimens (from around 2.64 to 2.81).
pended in water. To avoid erroneous readings by undue
displacement of water, use wire or fishing line of the smallest
6. Test Specimens
practical size to suspend the specimen and holder. Do not use
6.1 Test specimens may be molded from laboratory-mixed
chains, strings, or sash cords. The balance shall conform to
fieldsamplesorbecutfromasphaltpavementinthefield.Field
Guide D4753 as a Class GP2 balance.
samples should be obtained in accordance with Practice
NOTE 3—Since there are no more significant figures in the quotient
D979/D979M. Pavement specimens shall be taken from pave-
(bulk specific gravity) than appear in either the dividend (the mass of the
ments with a core drill, diamond or carborundum saw, or other
specimen in air) or in the divisor (the volume of the specimen, obtained
suitable means, in accordance with Practice D5361/D5361M.
from the difference in mass of the specimen in air and in water), this
means that the balance must have a sensitivity capable of providing both
6.2 Size of Specimens—It is recommended (1) that the
mass and volume values to at least four figures. For example, a sensitivity
diameter of cylindrically molded or cored specimens, or the
of 0.1 g would provide four significant figures for the determination of a
lengthofthesidesofsawedspecimens,beatleastequaltofour
massintherangefrom130.0to999.9gwhenthespecificgravityis2.300.
times the maximum size of the aggregate; and (2) that the
4.2 Water Bath, capable of maintaining a temperature of 25
thickness of specimens be at least one and one half times the
6 1°C [77 6 1.8°F] for immersing the specimen in water
maximum size of the aggregate.
while suspended, and equipped with an overflow outlet for
6.3 Take pavement specimens from pavements with a core
maintaining a constant water level. The water in the bath shall
alwaysbekeptatthesamelevelastheoverflowoutlet.Theuse drill,diamondorcarborundumsaw,orbyothersuitablemeans.
6.3.1 Take care to avoid distortion, bending, or cracking of
of an overflow outlet is mandatory.
specimens during and after removal from pavement or mold.
NOTE 4—The water bath does not need to be a sophisticated device.
Store specimens in a safe, cool place.
Anymethodthatmaintains25 61°C[77 61.8°F]canbeusedincluding
6.3.2 Specimens shall be free of foreign materials such as
tempering, aquarium heaters, stirrers, or other devices.
seal coat, tack coat, foundation material, soil, paper, or foil.
4.3 Thermometer, for measuring the temperature of the
When any of these materials is visually evident, it shall be
water bath, with a temperature range from at least 20 to 30°C
removed in accordance with 6.3.3.
[68 to 86°F] with a tolerance range of 60.25°C [60.45°F].
6.3.3 If desired, specimens may be separated from other
4.3.1 Thermometers that can meet these requirements in-
pavement layers by sawing or other suitable means.
clude a 17C [17F] Specification E1, a Class A Pt-100 RTD
(Specification E1137/E1137M) with a three or four-wire con-
7. Procedure
figuration at the connection terminal, and an NTC thermistor.
7.1 Mass of Uncoated Specimens:
The electronic sensors need to be in a stainless steel metal
7.1.1 For cores and for other specimens that may contain
sheath and paired with an appropriate meter capable of
moisture or solvents, thoroughly dry specimens under a fan
displaying the temperature to at least two decimal places.
until a constant mass has been achieved and determine the
NOTE 5—The ASTM 17C has a maximum scale error of 0.1°C and
mass of the specimen. A constant mass is defined as less than
Class A Pt-100 RTD thermometers have a tolerance range of 60.1°C.
a 0.05% change in mass between consecutive 15 min drying
This tolerance range is also typically available for thermistor thermom-
intervals.OthermethodssuchasPracticeD7227/D7227Mmay
eters.
be used to dry the specimen as long as a constant mass is
achieved (mass repeats within 0.1%). Designate this mass as
5. Materials
A.
5.1 Parafilm—100 mm [4 in.] wide roll of elastomeric film
7.1.2 Laboratory-prepared specimens,
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D1188 − 07 (Reapproved 2015) D1188/D1188M − 22
Standard Test Method for
Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Compacted
BituminousAsphalt Mixtures Using Coated Samples
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D1188;D1188/D1188M; 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.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope
1.1 This test method covers the determination of bulk specific gravity of specimens of Parafilm-coated, compacted bituminous
mixtures as defined in Terminology asphalt mixtures.E12.
1.2 This method should be used with samples that contain open or interconnecting voids or absorb more than 2 %2.0 % of water
by volume, or both, as determined by Section both.8.
NOTE 1—A method for calculating the percent water absorbed by the specimen on a volume basis is described in Test Method D2726/D2726M.
1.3 The bulk specific gravity of the compacted bituminousasphalt mixtures may be used in calculating the unit weight of the
mixture.
1.4 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 nonconformance with the standard.
1.5 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.
1.6 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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.7 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
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.
Current edition approved July 1, 2015June 15, 2022. Published October 2015June 2022. Originally approved in 1951. Last previous edition approved in 20072015 as
ε1
D1188 – 07 (2015). . DOI: 10.1520/D1188-07R15.10.1520/D1188_D1188M-22.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D1188/D1188M − 22
D979D979/D979M Practice for Sampling Bituminous Paving Mixtures
D1461 Test Method for Moisture or Volatile Distillates in Asphalt Mixtures
D2726D2726/D2726M Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density of Non-Absorptive Compacted Asphalt Mixtures
D3203D3203/D3203M Test Method for Percent Air Voids in Compacted Asphalt Mixtures
D3666 Specification for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Testing and Inspecting Road and Paving Materials
D4753 Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Balances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and Construction
Materials Testing
D5361D5361/D5361M Practice for Sampling Compacted Asphalt Mixtures for Laboratory Testing
D6752D7227/D7227M Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density Practice for Rapid Drying of Compacted Asphalt
Mixtures Mixture Specimens Using Automatic Vacuum Sealing MethodDrying Apparatus
E12E1 Terminology Relating to Density and Specific Gravity of Solids, Liquids, and GasesSpecification for ASTM Liquid-
in-Glass Thermometers (Withdrawn 1996)
E1137/E1137M Specification for Industrial Platinum Resistance Thermometers
3. Significance and Use
3.1 This test method is useful in calculating percent air voids as given in Test Method D3203D3203/D3203M. Since specific
gravity has no units, it must be converted to density when this type of measurement is required. This conversion is made by
multiplying the specific gravity at a given temperature by the density of water at the same temperature.
NOTE 2—The quality of the results produced by this standard are dependent on the competence of the personnel performing the procedure and the
capability, calibration, and maintenance of the equipment used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Specification D3666 are generally considered capable
of competent and objective testing, sampling, inspection, etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Specification D3666 alone does
not completely ensure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; following the suggestions of Specification D3666 or some similar
acceptable guideline provides a means of evaluating and controlling some of those factors.
4. Apparatus
4.1 Balance, with ample capacity,capacity and with sufficient sensitivity to enable bulk specific gravities to the specimens to be
calculated to at least four significant figures, that is, to at least three decimal places. It shall be equipped with a suitable apparatus
to permit weighing the specimen while it is suspended in water. To avoid erroneous readings by undue displacement of water, use
wire or fishing line of the smallest practical size to suspend the specimen and holder. Do not use chains, strings, or sash cords. The
balance shall conform to SpecificationGuide D4753 as a classClass GP2 balance.
4.1.1 Since there are no more significant figures in the quotient (bulk specific gravity) than appear in either the dividend (the mass
of the specimen in air) or in the divisor (the volume of the specimen, obtained from the difference in mass of the specimen in air
and in water), this means that the balance must have a sensitivity capable of providing both mass and volume values to at least
four figures. For example, a sensitivity of 0.1 g would provide four significant figures for the determination of a mass in the range
from 130.0 to 999.9 g when the specific gravity is 2.300.
NOTE 3—Since there are no more significant figures in the quotient (bulk specific gravity) than appear in either the dividend (the mass of the specimen
in air) or in the divisor (the volume of the specimen, obtained from the difference in mass of the specimen in air and in water), this means that the balance
must have a sensitivity capable of providing both mass and volume values to at least four figures. For example, a sensitivity of 0.1 g would provide four
significant figures for the determination of a mass in the range from 130.0 to 999.9 g when the specific gravity is 2.300.
4.2 Water Bath, capable of maintaining a temperature of 25 6 1 °C [77 6 1.8 °F] for immersing the specimen in water while
suspended, and equipped with either an overflow outlet for maintaining a constant water level or an electronic tare feature on the
scale.level. The water in the bath shall always be kept at the same level as the overflow outlet. The use of an overflow outlet is
mandatory.
NOTE 4—The water bath does not need to be a sophisticated device. Any method that maintains 25 6 1 °C [77 6 1.8 °F] can be used including tempering,
aquarium heaters, stirrers, or other devices.
4.3 Thermometer, for measuring the temperature of the water bath, with a temperature range from at least 20 to 30 °C [68 to 86 °F]
with a tolerance range of 60.25 °C [60.45 °F].
4.3.1 Thermometers that can meet these requirements include a 17C [17F] Specification E1, a Class A Pt-100 RTD (Specification
D1188/D1188M − 22
E1137/E1137M) with a three or four-wire configuration at the connection terminal, and an NTC thermistor. The electronic sensors
need to be in a stainless steel metal sheath and paired with an appropriate meter capable of displaying the temperature to at least
two decimal places.
NOTE 5—The ASTM 17C has a maximum scale error of 0.1 °C and Class A Pt-100 RTD thermometers have a tolerance range of 60.1 °C. This tolerance
range is also typically available for thermistor thermometers.
5. Materials
5.1 Parafilm—Is an 100 mm [4 in.] wide roll of elastomeric film obtainable from most scientific suppliers.
NOTE 6—Parafilm rolls come in various lengths. Typical lengths range from 38 to 76 m [125 to 250 ft].
5.2 Polyurethane Foam—Foam Mat (Two Pieces)—A foam mat of a minimum of 50 × 50 cm (20 × 20 in.) shall To be used for
the working surface by about 12.5 mm (0.5 in.) thick. Additionally, a minimum of one foam pad with a size approximately equal
to the top surface dimensions of the sample shall be on hand.pressing the Parafilm onto the surface of the specimen. One piece
of the foam mat shall be larger than the specimen diameter (working surface). The second piece shall be approximately the same
diameter of the specimen (interface between specimen and load used to press film onto surface).
NOTE 7—The soft, compressible interface between the counter and specimen, and between the top of the specimen helps minimize the potential for sharp
aggregate edges to puncture the film.
5.3 Calibration Cylinder—Specimen—An approximately 100-mm (4-in.) diameter by 60-mm (2.5-in.) smooth-sided aluminum
cylinder.A smooth-sided aluminum cylinder approximately the same size as the asphalt mixture specimens being tested.
NOTE 8—Aluminum is used for the calibration specimen because it is readily available from local machine shops and has a specific gravity that is close
to that of traditional compacted dense-graded asphalt mixture specimens (from around 2.64 to 2.81).
6. Test Specimens
6.1 Test specimens may be molded from laboratory-mixed field samples or be cut from bituminousasphalt pavement in the field.
Field samples should be obtained in accordance with Practice D979D979/D979M. Pavement specimens shall be taken from
pavements with a core drill, diamond,diamond or carborundrumcarborundum saw, or other suitable means, in accordance with
Practice D5361D5361/D5361M.
6.2 Size of Specimens—It is recommended,recommended (1) that the diameter of cylindrically molded or cored specimens, or the
length of the sides of sawed specimens, be at least equal to four times the maximum size of the aggregate; and (2) that the thickness
of specimens be at least one and one half times the maximum size of the aggregate.
6.3 Take pavement specimens from pavements with a core drill, diamond or Carborundumcarborundum saw, or by other suitable
means.
6.3.1 Take care to avoid distortion, bending, or cracking of specimens during and after removal from pavement or mold. Store
specimens in a safe, cool place.
6.3.2 Specimens shall be free of foreign materials such as seal coat, tack coat, foundation material, soil, paper, or foil. When any
of these materials areis visually evident, theyit shall be removed in accordance with 6.3.3.
6.3.3 If desired, specimens may be separated from other pavement layers by sawing or other suitable means.
7. Determine if Coating of Specimens is Needed
7.1 Determine the bulk specific gravity of the uncoated specimen according to Test Methods D2726 or D6752.
7.2 Use the data collected in 7.1 to calculate the percent water absorbed by the specimen (on volume basis) as follows:
D1188/D1188M − 22
B 2 A
% Water Absorbed by Vol. 5 100 (1)
B 2 C
where:
A = mass of the dry specimen in air, g
B = mass of the saturated surface-dry specimen in air, g
C = mass of specimen in water, g.
7.3 If the percent water absorbed by the specimen in Section 7.2 exceeds 2 %, continue with the procedures outlined in Section
8. If the percent water absorbed by the specimen does not exceed 2 %, report the bulk specific gravity of the uncoated specimen
as determined in 7.1.
7. Procedure
7.1 Mass of Uncoated Specimens—Specimens: After the sample has been dried under a fan until a constant mass has been
achieved, determine the mass of the sample. Designate this as mass A.
7.1.1 For cores and for other specimens that may contain moisture or solvents, thoroughly dry specimens under a fan until a
constant mass has been achieved and determine the mass of the specimen. A constant mass is defined as less than a 0.05 % change
in mass between consecutive 15 min drying intervals. Other methods such as Practice D7227/D7227M may be used to dry the
specimen as long as a constant mass is achieved (mass repeats within 0.1 %). Designate this mass as A.
7.1.2 Laboratory-prepared specimens, including plant-mixed, laboratory compacted specimens, are considered to be dry and can
be tested without additional drying.
7.2 Mass of Coated Specimen:
7.2.1 On a hard surface, cut two 100 × 100-mm
...