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 EMULSION
| Residue by Distillation | AASHTO T59 | Required |
|---|
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 T59 | Required |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Stability | AASHTO T59 | 24 hour storage stability recommended if not used in 72 hours |
| Residue by Distillation | AASHTO T59 | Required |
| Particle Charge | AASHTO T59 | Optional |
| Sieve | AASHTO T59 | Required |
| Demulsibility | AASHTO T59 | Optional |
| Oil Distillate | AASHTO T59 | Required |
Tests on Residue
| Penetration | AASHTO T49 | Required |
|---|---|---|
| MSCR | ASTM D7405 | Required |
| Ash Content | AASHTO T | Required |
| Viscosity | AASHTO T | Required |
Note: If a rejuvenator or polymer modifier is used, those properties should be certified by the manufacturer.
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 gallon and then take two, 1/2 gal samples.
Post-Construction Testing
| Percent Embedment | Sand Patch Test | Recommended |
Let's Connect
Get the latest in industry trends, research, success stories, and technical updates in a succinct e-newsletter.
