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Pre-Construction Testing

Performing a mix design is crucial to the success of your project. The following tests are applicable when performing a mix design for either the McLeod Method or Kearby Method. Refer to the mix design section for more details on these design methods.

AGGREGATE

Gradation AASHTO T27/ASTM C136 Required
Absorption AASHTO T84-94 Required for McLeod
Bulk Specific Gravity AASHTO T84-94 Required
Flakiness Index CFLHD DFT-508 Required for McLeod
Loose Unit Weight ASTM C29 Required

ASPHALT CEMENT OR ASPHALT EMULSION

Residue by Distillation AASHTO T59/ASTM D6997 Required

MIXTURE

Sweep Test ASTM D7000 Recommended

The below are some of the tests that could be required or recommended when developing a specification.  Please review your local specifications for area specific tests.  Materials should be qualified before construction starts. Refer to ISSA A165 for the below target values.

AGGREGATE

Gradation AASHTO T27/ASTM C136 Required
LA Abrasion AASHTO T96/ASTM C131 Required
Fractured Faces AASHTO T335/ASTM D5821 Required
Flat and Elongated ASTM D4791 Required
Flakiness Index CFLHD DFT-508 Optional
Soundness of Aggregate AASHTO T104/ASTM C88 Optional

ASPHALT EMULSION

Tests on Emulsion

Viscosity AASHTO T72 Required
Storage Stability AASHTO T59/ASTM D6930 24 hour storage stability recommended if not used in 72 hours
Residue by Distillation AASHTO T59/ASTM D6997 Required
Particle Charge AASHTO T59 Optional
Sieve AASHTO T59 Required
Demulsibility AASHTO T59 Required

Tests on Residue

Ductility AASHTO T51

Required for unmodified emulsions

Penetration AASHTO T49/ASTM D5

Required

Elastic Recovery AASHTO T301

Required

Float Test AASHTO T50

Reqired for High Float Emulsions

HOT ASPHALT CEMENT

Viscosity AASHTO T202 Required
Penetration AASHTO T49 Required
Ductility AASHTO T51 Required
Elastic Recovery AASHTO T Required
Softening Point AASHTO T53 Required
Flash Point AASHTO T48 Required
Solubility AASHTO T Required
DSR AASHTO T315 Modified Tire Rubber Only

Construction Testing

Periodic checks of the application rate (aggregate and asphalt) Recommended
Sampling and testing of the asphalt emulsion of binder Recommended
Sampling and testing of the aggregate Recommended

Before taking samples, draw and dispose of 1 gal and then take two 1/2 gal samples.


Post-Construction Testing

Percent Embedment     Sand Patch Test     Recommended