BS en 12697-25-2016 - (2020-07-07 - 11-30-14 Am)

BS EN 12697-25:2016
BSI Standards Publication
Bituminous mixtures — Test

methods
Part 25: Cyclic compression test
BS EN 12697-25:2016 BRITISH STANDARD
National foreword
This British Standard is the UK implementation of EN 12697-25:2016.
It supersedes BS EN 12697-25:2005 which is withdrawn.
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted to Technical
Committee B/510/1, Asphalt products.
A list of organizations represented on this committee can be
obtained on request to its secretary.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary
provisions of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct
application.
© The British Standards Institution 2016.
Published by BSI Standards Limited 2016
ISBN 978 0 580 84020 3
ICS 93.080.20
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal obligations.
This British Standard was published under the authority of the
Standards Policy and Strategy Committee on 31 August 2016.
Amendments/corrigenda issued since publication
Date Text affected
BS EN 12697-25:2016
EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 12697-25

NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM July 2016
ICS 93.080.20 Supersedes EN 12697-25:2005
English Version
Bituminous mixtures - Test methods - Part 25: Cyclic

compression test
Mélanges bitumineux - Méthodes d'essai - Partie 25 : Asphalt - Prüfverfahren - Teil 25: Druckschwellversuch
Essai de compression cyclique
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 19 May 2016.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and
United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels
© 2016 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 12697-25:2016 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
BS EN 12697-25:2016
EN 12697-25:2016 (E)
Contents Page
European foreword....................................................................................................................................................... 4
1 Scope .................................................................................................................................................................... 8
2 Normative references .................................................................................................................................... 8
3 Terms and definitions ................................................................................................................................... 9
4 Principle .......................................................................................................................................................... 10
5 Equipment ...................................................................................................................................................... 10
5.1 Control and loading system ...................................................................................................................... 10
5.2 Displacement transducers ........................................................................................................................ 10
5.3 Data registration equipment ................................................................................................................... 10
5.4 Thermostatic chamber ............................................................................................................................... 10
5.5 Measuring instruments and accessories needed.............................................................................. 11
6 Test specimen preparation....................................................................................................................... 11
6.1 Number of test specimen ........................................................................................................................... 11
6.2 Test specimen compaction ....................................................................................................................... 11
6.3 Preparation of mastic asphalt test specimen ..................................................................................... 11
6.3.1 Accessories for test specimen preparation ........................................................................................ 11
6.3.2 Procedure for moulded test specimen ................................................................................................. 12
6.3.3 Procedure for cored test specimen........................................................................................................ 12
6.4 Preparation of test specimen surfaces ................................................................................................. 12
6.5 Determination of bulk density ................................................................................................................ 12
6.6 Drying of the test specimen ...................................................................................................................... 12
6.7 Dimensions ..................................................................................................................................................... 12
7 Test method A — Uniaxial cyclic compression test with confinement ..................................... 13
7.1 Principle .......................................................................................................................................................... 13
7.2 Test method A1 – block pulse loading .................................................................................................. 13
7.2.1 Upper loading plate ..................................................................................................................................... 13
7.2.2 Loading pulse................................................................................................................................................. 13
7.3 Test method A2 – Haversine pulse loading......................................................................................... 15
7.3.1 Upper loading plate ..................................................................................................................................... 15
7.3.2 Loading pulse................................................................................................................................................. 16
7.4 Test specimen ................................................................................................................................................ 17
7.5 Conditioning................................................................................................................................................... 17
7.5.1 Storing conditions ........................................................................................................................................ 17
7.5.2 Cleaning and drying of test specimens ................................................................................................. 18
7.5.3 Reduction of friction to loading platens .............................................................................................. 18
7.5.4 Temperature conditioning ....................................................................................................................... 18
7.6 Test procedure .............................................................................................................................................. 18
7.6.1 Test temperature ......................................................................................................................................... 18
7.6.2 Positioning of test specimen in test device ......................................................................................... 18
7.6.3 Testing of test specimen ............................................................................................................................ 18
7.6.4 Measurement of permanent deformation........................................................................................... 19
7.6.5 End of loading ................................................................................................................................................ 19
7.7 Calculation and expression of results ................................................................................................... 19
7.7.1 Permanent deformation ............................................................................................................................ 19
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7.7.2 Creep rate and creep modulus ................................................................................................................. 20

7.8 Test report ...................................................................................................................................................... 21
7.8.1 General ............................................................................................................................................................. 21
7.8.2 Information on the test specimens......................................................................................................... 21
7.8.3 Information on test conditions ................................................................................................................ 21
7.8.4 Test results...................................................................................................................................................... 21
7.9 Precision .......................................................................................................................................................... 22
8 Test method B — Triaxial cyclic compression test........................................................................... 22
8.1 Principle ........................................................................................................................................................... 22
8.2 Apparatus and test system ........................................................................................................................ 24
8.2.1 General ............................................................................................................................................................. 24
8.2.2 Loading platens ............................................................................................................................................. 27
8.2.3 Control system ............................................................................................................................................... 27
8.2.4 Load cell ........................................................................................................................................................... 27
8.2.5 Height measurements ................................................................................................................................. 27
8.2.6 Temperature conditioning ........................................................................................................................ 27
8.3 Test specimen preparation ....................................................................................................................... 28
8.3.1 Dimensions ..................................................................................................................................................... 28
8.3.2 Handling ........................................................................................................................................................... 28
8.4 Conditioning ................................................................................................................................................... 28
8.4.1 Storing conditions ........................................................................................................................................ 28
8.4.2 Cleaning and drying ..................................................................................................................................... 28
8.4.3 Reduction of friction to loading platens ............................................................................................... 29
8.4.4 Temperature conditioning ........................................................................................................................ 29
8.5 Test procedure .............................................................................................................................................. 29
8.5.1 Number of tests ............................................................................................................................................. 29
8.5.2 Test temperature .......................................................................................................................................... 29
8.5.3 Positioning of test specimen in test device ......................................................................................... 29
8.5.4 Testing of test specimen............................................................................................................................. 29
8.5.5 Loading conditions ....................................................................................................................................... 30
8.5.6 Measurements of permanent deformation ......................................................................................... 30
8.6 Calculation and expression of results ................................................................................................... 31
8.6.1 Cumulative strain ......................................................................................................................................... 31
8.6.2 Creep curve ..................................................................................................................................................... 31
8.7 Test report ...................................................................................................................................................... 32
8.7.1 General ............................................................................................................................................................. 32
8.7.2 Information on the test specimens......................................................................................................... 33
8.7.3 Information on the test conditions......................................................................................................... 33
8.7.4 Test results...................................................................................................................................................... 33
8.8 Precision .......................................................................................................................................................... 33
Annex A (informative) Procedure for correction of test results obtained from test specimen
of varied age ................................................................................................................................................... 35
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EN 12697-25:2016 (E)
European foreword
This document (EN 12697-25:2016) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 227 “Road
materials”, the secretariat of which is held by DIN.
This document supersedes EN 12697-25:2005.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by January 2017, and conflicting national standards shall
be withdrawn at the latest by January 2017.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
Compared with EN 12697-25:2005 the following changes have been made:
a) addition of uniaxial compression test with confinement for mastic asphalt;
b) precision of friction-reducing system for loading surfaces;
c) definition of loading signal for triaxial tests by identifying loading time and rest time, to be
considered in EN 13108-20;
d) implementation of digit numbers for test results;
e) clarification of formulae and definitions.
This European standard is one of a series of standards as listed below:
— EN 12697-1, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 1: Soluble binder
content
— EN 12697-2, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 2: Determination of particle size

distribution
— EN 12697-3, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 3: Bitumen recovery:
Rotary evaporator
— EN 12697-4, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 4: Bitumen recovery: Fractionating

column
— EN 12697-5, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 5: Determination of the
maximum density
— EN 12697-6, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 6: Determination of
bulk density of bituminous specimens
bulk density of bituminous specimens by gamma rays
void characteristics of bituminous specimens
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EN 12697-25:2016 (E)
— EN 12697-10, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 10: Compactability
the affinity between aggregate and bitumen
the water sensitivity of bituminous specimens
— EN 12697-13, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 13: Temperature
measurement
— EN 12697-14, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 14: Water content
the segregation sensitivity
— EN 12697-16, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 16: Abrasion by studded tyres
— EN 12697-17, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 17: Particle loss of
porous asphalt specimen
— EN 12697-18, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 18: Binder drainage
— EN 12697-19, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 19: Permeability of
specimen
— EN 12697-20, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 20: Indentation using
cube or cylindrical specimens (CY)
— EN 12697-21, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 21: Indentation using
plate specimens
— EN 12697-22, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 22: Wheel tracking
the indirect tensile strength of bituminous specimens
— EN 12697-24, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 24: Resistance to
fatigue
— EN 12697-25, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 25: Cyclic compression test (this
document)
— EN 12697-26, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 26: Stiffness
— EN 12697-27, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 27: Sampling
— EN 12697-28, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 28: Preparation of
samples for determining binder content, water content and grading
the dimensions of a bituminous specimen
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EN 12697-25:2016 (E)
— EN 12697-30, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 30: Specimen
preparation by impact compactor
preparation by gyratory compactor
— EN 12697-32, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 32: Laboratory
compaction of bituminous specimens by vibratory compactor
prepared by roller compactor
— EN 12697-34, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 34: Marshall test
— EN 12697-35, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 35: Laboratory mixing
the thickness of a bituminous pavement
— EN 12697-37, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 37: Hot sand test for
the adhesivity of binder on precoated chippings for HRA
— EN 12697-38, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 38: Common
equipment and calibration
— EN 12697-39, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 39: Binder content by
ignition
— EN 12697-40, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 40: In situ
drainability
— EN 12697-41, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 41: Resistance to de-
icing fluids
— EN 12697-42, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 42: Amount of foreign
matters in reclaimed asphalt
— EN 12697-43, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 43: Resistance to fuel
— EN 12697-44, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 44: Crack
propagation by semi-circular bending test
— EN 12697-45, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 45: Saturation ageing
tensile stiffness (SATS) conditioning test
— EN 12697-46, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 46: Low temperature
cracking and properties by uniaxial tension tests
the ash content of natural asphalts
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EN 12697-25:2016 (E)
— prEN 12697-48, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 48: Interlayer bonding 1)
friction after polishing
— CEN/TS 12697-50, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 50: Resistance to scuffing
— FprCEN/TS 12697-51, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 51: Surface shear strength test 2)
— prCEN/TS 12697-52, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 52: Conditioning to address
oxidative ageing 3)
— prEN 12697-53, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 53: Cohesion increase by spreadability-
meter method1)
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia,
France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta,
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
Turkey and the United Kingdom.
1) Currently at Enquiry stage.
2) In preparation.
3) In preparation for CEN/TS or EN.
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EN 12697-25:2016 (E)
1 Scope
This European Standard specifies three test methods (A1, A2 and B) for determining the resistance of
bituminous mixtures to permanent deformation by cyclic compression tests with confinement. The
tests make it possible to rank various mixtures or to check on the acceptability of a given mixture. They
do not allow making a quantitative prediction of rutting in the field to be made.
Test methods A1 and A2 describe methods for determining the creep characteristics of bituminous
mixtures by means of a uniaxial cyclic compression test with some confinement present. In this test a
cylindrical test specimen is subjected to a cyclic axial stress. Method A2 is preferred for mastic asphalt
and Method A1 for other asphalt mixtures. To achieve a certain confinement, the diameter of the
loading platen is taken smaller than that of the test specimen. In test method A1, the test specimen is
loaded by block-pulses whereas in method A2 haversine loading with rest time is applied.
Test method B describes the method for determining the creep characteristics of bituminous mixtures
by means of the triaxial cyclic compression test. In this test a cylindrical test specimen is subjected to a
defined confining stress and a cyclic axial stress. This test is most often used for the purpose of
evaluation and development of new types of mixtures.
This European Standard applies to test specimens prepared in the laboratory or cored from the road.
The maximum size of the aggregates is 32 mm.
NOTE 1 Confinement of the test specimen is necessary to simulate realistic rutting behaviour, especially for
gap-graded mixtures with a large stone fraction.
NOTE 2 For the purpose of Type Testing, the test conditions are given in EN 13108–20.
2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated
references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 12697-6, Bituminous mixtures - Test methods for hot mix asphalt - Part 6: Determination of bulk
density of bituminous specimens
EN 12697-27, Bituminous mixtures - Test methods for hot mix asphalt - Part 27: Sampling
EN 12697-29, Bituminous mixtures - Test method for hot mix asphalt - Part 29: Determination of the
dimensions of a bituminous specimen
EN 12697-30, Bituminous mixtures - Test methods for hot mix asphalt - Part 30: Specimen preparation by
impact compactor
EN 12697-31, Bituminous mixtures - Test methods for hot mix asphalt - Part 31: Specimen preparation by
gyratory compactor
EN 12697-33, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods for hot mix asphalt — Part 33: Specimen prepared by
roller compactor
EN 12697-35, Bituminous mixtures - Test methods - Part 35: Laboratory mixing
EN 13108-20, Bituminous mixtures - Material specifications - Part 20: Type Testing
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3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1
contact area
portion of the pressure platen that is in contact with the test specimen
3.2
creep curve
display of the cumulative axial strain, expressed in %, of the test specimen as a function of the number
of loading cycles
Note 1 to entry: Generally the following stages can be distinguished (see Figure 1):
— stage 1: the (initial) part of the creep curve, where the slope of the curve decreases with increasing number of
loading cycles;
— stage 2: the (middle) part of the creep curve, where the slope of the curve is quasi constant and can be
expressed by the creep rate fc (See key 5 of Figure 1). The exact turning point of the creep curve lies within
this stage;
— stage 3: the (last) part of the creep curve, where the slope increases with increasing number of loading cycles.
Depending on the testing conditions and on the mixture, one or more stages may be absent.
Key
εn cumulative axial strain
n number of loading cycles
1 stage 1
2 stage 2
3 stage 3
4 turning point
5 creep rate fc
Figure 1 — Example of creep curve
3.3
Creep rate
slope of axial strain of the test specimen after a given number of loading cycles
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3.4
permanent deformation
cumulative axial deformation of the test specimen after a given number of loading cycles
4 Principle
This test method determines the resistance to permanent deformation of a cylindrical test specimen of
bituminous mixture by repeated load. The test specimens may be either prepared in the laboratory or
be cored from a pavement.
During the test, the change in height of the test specimen is measured at specified numbers of loading
cycles. From this, the cumulative axial strain εn of the test specimen is determined as a function of the
number of loading cycles. The results are represented in a creep curve as given in Figure 1. From this,
the creep characteristics of the test specimen are computed.
5 Equipment
5.1 Control and loading system
PC and software for controlling, reading and collecting necessary data. The control system shall
guarantee that during the test the physical parameter to be controlled (force) shows no over-
modulation. The load cell shall have a capacity of at least 5000 N with a precision of ± 10 N. All
components shall be constructed out of hardened corrosion-resistant steel. The load cell should be able
to generate a block or haversine loading pulse with or without rest periods. Resonance frequencies of
the load cell, as mounted, shall be at least 10 times higher as the test frequency. Test frequencies in the
range of 0,5 Hz to 5 Hz are most often applied.
It is recommended that the control system should include a programmable function generator and a
control circuit with which the desired loading signal can be generated.
5.2 Displacement transducers
The deformation measurement system shall include two displacement transducers for measuring and
recording the cumulative axial deformation to the test specimen, by measuring the change of the upper
loading plate position during the test. The transducers shall have a tolerance of not more than 2 % for
the measuring range of 5 mm.
NOTE Another number of suitable displacement transducers is possible, if proven, that inhomogeneous test
specimen deformation is levelled during the test.
5.3 Data registration equipment
A data-acquisition system shall be provided for controlling and collecting the signals from the load and
displacement transducers.
A system for graphical follow-up of the creep curve during testing is recommended.
5.4 Thermostatic chamber
A thermostatic chamber to maintain the temperature in the vicinity of the test specimen constant with a
tolerance of ± 0,5 °C .
It is recommended that a sufficiently large thermostatic chamber should be chosen, so that during the
test additional test specimens can be acclimatised inside the thermostatic chamber
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5.5 Measuring instruments and accessories needed
5.5.1 Balance and other equipment required to determine the bulk density in accordance with
EN 12697-6.
5.5.2 Vernier callipers or other suitable apparatus to determine the test specimen dimensions in
accordance with EN 12697-29.
5.5.3 Angle meter (Protractor), which shall be capable of measuring to ± 0,5° for controlling the
angularity of the test specimen.
5.5.4 Thermometer of appropriate range, which shall be capable of measuring to ± 0,1 °C for
determining the temperature of the test specimen and the storage and test environment.
5.5.5 System for reducing the friction between test specimen and loading plate, see Clause 7.5.3
and/or 8.4.3.
6 Test specimen preparation

6.1 Number of test specimen
At least three test specimens shall be prepared for testing.

6.2 Test specimen compaction
For rolled asphalt the test shall be performed on

— test specimens prepared in the laboratory by gyratory compaction in accordance with
EN 12697-31;
— test specimens drilled from laboratory-prepared slab of asphalt by roller compactor in accordance
with EN 12697-33;
— test specimens prepared from drilled core test specimen taken from the road in accordance with
EN 12697-27;
— test specimens prepared in the laboratory by impact compactor in accordance with EN 12697-30.
NOTE 1 The way of compaction has a considerable impact on the results.
NOTE 2 For type testing: the compaction method is given in EN 13108–20.
6.3 Preparation of mastic asphalt test specimen

6.3.1 Accessories for test specimen preparation
— Cylindrical steel mould consisting of a ring (inner diameter (148 ± 5) mm, height ≥ 70 mm, steel
thickness ≥ 6 mm) and a bottom plate (diameter shall be 2 ( ± 1) mm smaller than the inner
diameter of the ring)
— Moulds of appropriate size so that cores can be taken at least 20 mm from the edges (in case of
6.3.3)
— Wooden tamper for levelling mastic asphalt
— Extruding device
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— Release agent, (e.g. silicone grease or glycerine)
— Silicone paper disk with the same diameter ( ± 1 mm) as the bottom plate
— Core drill with an inner diameter of (148 ± 5) mm if cored test specimens are tested
6.3.2 Procedure for moulded test specimen
Heat the mould in a heating cabinet to a temperature of (150 ± 10) °C, apply release agent to the inner
surface, place it on top of the bottom plate and put the silicone paper disk into the mould.
Preheat the mixture without allowing fresh air circulation in an oven or a thermostatically regulated
heating mantle up to the reference temperature according EN 12697-35 or the temperature indicated
by the producer.
Revise national regulation about maximum temperatures. If the mixture is spreadable by that
temperature this can be applied instead of the temperature according to EN 12697-35.
Fill the homogenized asphalt mixture into the mould and tamp it in two layers and even the surface.
As soon as the test specimen has cooled to a temperature of between 18 °C and 28 °C remove it from the
mould and place it on a flat base.
6.3.3 Procedure for cored test specimen
Alternatively test specimens can be cored from site or from laboratory prepared slabs. The slab shall be
prepared in a height of at least 65 mm. Therefore, an adequate amount of mastic asphalt is filled into the
mould in two layers. When the slab is cooled down, the test specimens can be drilled with a core drill
with an inner diameter of (148 ± 5) mm. The cores shall be taken at least 20 mm from the edges of the
slab.
6.4 Preparation of test specimen surfaces
The ends of the test specimen shall be even and plan parallel, which is achieved by sawing both ends of
the test specimen. A diamond saw equipped with parallel blades is recommended. The ends shall be
parallel and perpendicular to the cylinder axis with an angle of less than 3° as measured by angle
meter/protractor. For a rough control of evenness brush the hand over the surface. If it feels even
without blemishes it shall be considered adequate, otherwise it shall be polished.
6.5 Determination of bulk density
The bulk density of the test specimen shall be measured in accordance with EN 12697-6.
6.6 Drying of the test specimen
Before testing, the test specimens shall be dried to constant mass in air at a relative air humidity of less
than 80 % at a temperature not more than 20 °C.
A test specimen shall be considered to be dry after at least 8 h drying time and when two weightings
performed minimum 4 h apart differ by less than 0,1 %.
6.7 Dimensions
The dimensions measured on the dry test specimen according to EN 12697-29.
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7 Test method A — Uniaxial cyclic compression test with confinement

7.1 Principle
A cylindrical test specimen with a nominal diameter of 150 mm, maintained at elevated conditioning
temperature, is placed between two plan parallel loading platens. The lower platen shall have an area
that stretches at least 5 mm outside the test specimen. Both the bottom surface (the lower platen) and
the upper platen shall be made from hardened corrosion-resistant steel with a polished (flat and
smooth) surface. The weight of the upper load platen shall be considered as static (permanent) load if it
is not fixed to the test apparatus.
7.2 Test method A1 – block pulse loading
7.2.1 Upper loading plate
The upper platen has a diameter of 100 mm (by an inclination the pressure area against the test
specimen has a real diameter of 96 mm).
The dimensions of the upper platen shall be as follows: diameter (100 ± 0,5) mm, thickness (25 ±
0,5) mm and mass (1,55 ± 0,05) kg. The platen shall at the lower edge have an inclination as shown in
Figure 2, which gives a loading circular surface with a diameter of (96 ± 1) mm. The upper platen shall
be fitted with hemispherical self-aligning seating while the lower platen shall be fixed or held in place
by e.g. a spigot/slot system
NOTE The inclination of the lower edge can also be rounded off.
Dimensions in millimetres
Figure 2 — Lower edge of the platen
7.2.2 Loading pulse
A schematic representation of the test device is given in Figure 3. There is no additional lateral
confinement pressure applied.
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Figure 3 — Test apparatus
The test specimen is loaded by a rectangular (see Figure 4 and Figure 5) and periodical vertical stress
pulse, with a frequency of 0,5 Hz and a load of (100 ± 2) kPa.
NOTE For this test method pneumatic test devices are applicable.
Key
1 strain, percent (%) t time, s
2 stress, kPa A strain at preload, percent (%)
3 preload, kPa εn cumulative axial strain, percent (%)
4 minimum stress, kPa
Figure 4 — Stress and strain curve for rectangular pulse loading
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Key
1 load
2 duration of the pulse
x1 + x2 + x3 + x4 < 20 % of the whole pulse
Figure 5 — Loading curve for block pulse loading
7.3 Test method A2 – Haversine pulse loading

7.3.1 Upper loading plate
The upper platen has a diameter of 56,4 ± 0,2 mm (resulting in a loading area of 2500 mm2), thickness
(30 ± 0,5) mm and mass (0,59 ± 0,05) kg. A schematic representation of the upper platen is
represented in Figure 6.
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Dimensions in millimetres
Key
1 steel sphere: allow adjustment of non-horizontal specimen surface
Figure 6 — Upper loading platen for test method A2
7.3.2 Loading pulse
The test specimen is subjected to a cyclic axial haversine-pulse pressure with rest time, as represented
in Figure 7. The loading pulse shall have a duration of 0,2 s with a rest period of 1,5 s between the
loading pulses (see Figure 7).
NOTE For this test method hydraulic test devices are applicable.
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Key
1 loading cycle σ stress, kPa σ min minimum pulse stress, 80 kPa
a loading pulse t time, s σ max maximum pulse stress, 350 kPa
b rest period
Figure 7 — Loading curve for haversine pulse loading
7.4 Test specimen
The test specimen shall have the following dimensions:

— the test specimen shall have a height of (60 ± 2) mm and a diameter of (148 ± 5) mm;
— the variations between the measurements according to EN 12697-29 shall not vary more than
1,0 mm for the height and 2,0 mm for the diameter.
In case of cored test specimens from the road and if the height of the individual test specimen is not
high enough, two test specimens may be put one on top of the other (but not more than two). The same
demands for evenness and plan-parallelism as for one test specimen shall be met for each of the test
specimens as for the two put together. Each of the test specimens shall have a height of at least 25 mm
(the two test specimens put together shall still have a height of (60 ± 2) mm). The test specimens are
put together without the use of any kind of substance.
Damage to the test specimen shall be avoided in all stages of sampling, transport and preparation
before testing. During transport and storage the slab and drilled core test specimen shall be fully
supported to prevent deformation or damage.
7.5 Conditioning
7.5.1 Storing conditions
The test specimens shall be stored for between 14 days and 42 days from the time of their manufacture
at a temperature not more than 20 °C. Test specimens shall be fully supported and not be stacked on
top of each other. Any damage shall be prevented.
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NOTE 1 Storage time influences the mechanical properties of the test specimen.
For other applications of the test other than CE marking other conditioning times can be applied.
NOTE 2 For specific types of bituminous mixtures and if data are available, the strain for a given curing time
can be calculated with the procedure presented in Annex A (informative).
7.5.2 Cleaning and drying of test specimens
If necessary, the test specimens shall be cleaned by brushing or washing, as required.

If necessary, the test specimens shall be dried at a temperature not higher than 20 °C to constant mass.
7.5.3 Reduction of friction to loading platens
For reducing the friction between test specimen and loading plate, silicon oil with lubricants or a
mixture of glycerine and talcum can be used for coating of the plan-parallel areas of the test specimen.
7.5.4 Temperature conditioning
Test specimens shall be conditioned at the test temperature.

NOTE 1 Test temperatures are generally between 30 °C and 50 °C.
NOTE 2 It is possible to monitor the test specimen temperature using dummy test specimen.
7.6 Test procedure

7.6.1 Test temperature
The test temperature shall be kept constant to within ± 0,5 °C during the duration of the test.
7.6.2 Positioning of test specimen in test device
The test specimen shall be positioned well centred coaxially with the test axis between the two platens.
Two displacement transducers shall be positioned on the loading platen symmetrically in order to even
inhomogeneous axial test specimen deformation, one opposite to the other. The test shall not be started
until the test specimen has reached the specified test temperature within ± 0,5 °C.
7.6.3 Testing of test specimen
7.6.3.1 Loading conditions (Method A1)
A preload shall be applied. The accuracy on the preload control shall be ± 10 % or better.
NOTE 1 A typical value for tests on rolled asphalt according to method A1 is (72 ± 7) N (this corresponds to a
pre-stress of (10 ± 1) kPa on a test specimen with a diameter of the loading surface of 96 mm) which is applied for
(120 ± 6) s.
NOTE 2 The upper platen gives a constant static load, which however is not included in the cyclic load.
The registration of test specimen deformation shall be started directly after the preloading.
Immediately after the preloading time has ended, the periodic load shall be applied according to
EN 13108-20 and Clauses 7.2.2 of this standard.
For tests according to method A1 where a block loading is applied (see Clause 7.2.2), The loading time
for each pulse shall be (1 ± 0,05) s. The accuracy on the period load shall be ± 10 % or better. The
loading pulse can be seen in Figure 4 and Figure 5. Every rest period between the pulses shall be
(1 ± 0,05) s as well, meaning a frequency of approximately 0,5 Hz. Totally nmax = 3600 pulses shall be
applied (total time for the test about 2 h). A typical value for the axial load is (724 ± 14) N
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(corresponding to a stress of (100 ± 2) kPa for a test specimen with a diameter of 96 mm) and a
minimum load during rest period of (15 ± 5) N.
7.6.3.2 Loading conditions (Method A2)
A preload shall be applied of (200 ± 5) N for (30 ± 5) s. Immediately after the preloading time has
ended, the periodic load shall be applied according to EN 13108-20 and Clauses 7.3.2 of this standard.
For tests according to method A2 where a haversine loading is applied (see Clause 7.3.2), the loading
time for each pulse shall be (0,2 ± 0,005) s with a rest period of (1,5 ± 0,05) s between the pulses. The
loading cycle can be seen in Figure 7. Totally nmax = 5000 loading cycles shall be applied. Typical values
for axial loads are
— (875 ± 5) N corresponding to a stress of (350 ± 5) kPa for the loading platen diameter of
(56,4 ± 0,2) mm for the maximum pulse load and
— (200 ± 5) N corresponding to a stress of (80 ± 5) kPa for the loading platen diameter of
(56,4 ± 0,2) mm for the minimum rest load.
7.6.4 Measurement of permanent deformation
The registration of test specimen deformation shall be started immediately with the beginning of the
first periodic loading pulse.
During the test regular measurements of the total permanent deformation shall be made. As a
minimum, readings shall be taken after the following loading cycles: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 20, 40, 60, 80, 100,
200, 300 etc. to the maximum number of cycles nmax applied. The total permanent deformation after a
loading cycle shall be measured during the last 0,2 s of the corresponding rest period as a mean by at
least 10 single measurements.
7.6.5 End of loading
The loading is stopped after nmax loading cycles. For test method A1, nmax = 3600 loading cycles are
applied. For test method A2, nmax = 5000 loading cycles are applied.
If the permanent deformation exceeds 5 mm the loading shall be stopped. The number of loading cycles
corresponding to 5 mm shall be reported.
7.7 Calculation and expression of results
7.7.1 Permanent deformation
7.7.1.1 Cumulative permanent deformation
The cumulative permanent deformation after n loading cycles applied, un,, shall be calculated in
millimetres (mm) from Formula (1)
u=
n h0 − hn (1)
where
un is the cumulative permanent deformation of the test specimen after n loading cycles, in
millimetres (mm) to the nearest 0,01 mm;
h0 is the mean vertical position of the upper loading plate as measured by displacement
transducers directly after end of preload of the test specimen, in millimetres (mm) to the
nearest 0,01 mm;
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hn is the mean vertical position of the upper loading plate as measured by displacement
transducers after n loading cycles, in millimetres (mm) to the nearest 0,01 mm.
7.7.1.2 Cumulative axial strain
The cumulative axial strain after n loading cycles, ε n shall be calculated in percent (%) to the nearest
0,01 % from Formula (2):
 un 
ε n = 100   (2)
 ti 
where
εn is the cumulative axial strain of the test specimen after n loading cycles, in percent (%);
un is the cumulative permanent deformation of the test specimen after n loading cycles, in
millimetres (mm) to the nearest 0,01 mm;
ti is the initial thickness of the test specimen in mm.
If the cumulative axial strain exceeds 4 % a graph of total deformation versus number of loading cycles
shall be drawn, as it shall be seen as likely that the test specimen has been demolished (stage 3 of the
creep curve). The test report shall mention that the permanent deformation at the end of loading
exceeds 4 %. The number of loading cycles corresponding to 4 % shall be reported.
7.7.2 Creep rate and creep modulus
If requested calculate creep rate in stage 2 (compare Figure 1), f c , in µm/m/loading cycle, and creep
modulus, E n , in Megapascal, from the following formulae for a specified interval of loading cycles ( n1 ,
n2 ):
ε n1 − ε n2
=fc ⋅10 000 (3)
n1 − n2
where
fc is the creep rate, in µm/m/loading cycles to the nearest 0,01 µm/m/loading cycles;
ε n1 ; ε n2 is the cumulative axial strain of the test specimen after n1 , n2 loading cycles in
percent (%);
n1 ; n2 is the number of repetitive loading cycles.
σ
En = (4)
10 ε n
where
En is the creep modulus after n loading cycles, in Megapascal (MPa) to the nearest 0,1 MPa;
εn is the cumulative axial strain of the test specimen after n loading cycles, in percent (%) to
nearest 0,01%;
σ is the applied stress, in kilopascal (kPa);
If the cumulated axial strain exceeds 4 % and the drawn graph shows that the inflexion point has been
passed then the extrapolated inclination line with the least slope gives the creep rate.
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7.8 Test report

7.8.1 General
The test report shall make reference to this European Standard and shall include information on the
test specimens and on the test results:
7.8.2 Information on the test specimens
For each set of test specimen the following information shall be provided in the test report:
a) type and origin of material tested;
b) test specimen identification number;
c) test specimen preparation method: laboratory made (refer to relevant EN standard) with indication
of compaction energy applied (if applicable) or cored from the road;
d) initial test specimen thickness t i in millimetre;
e) average diameter in millimetre;
f) bulk density, in megagrams per cubic metre to the nearest 0,001 Mg/m3;
g) age of test specimens at test and storage conditions under which they were kept.
h) additional observations (including the number of discarded test specimens).
7.8.3 Information on test conditions
For each set of test specimens the following information shall be provided in the test report:
a) test temperature;
b) applied test method and pulse loading type (A1, block or A2, haversine), pulse loading time and rest
period time;
c) applied maximum pulse stress, in kilopascal (kPa);
d) applied minimum rest stress, in kilopascal (kPa);
e) maximum loading cycles applied (nmax)
7.8.4 Test results
For each test specimen, the following information shall be provided in the test report:
a) The cumulative permanent deformation after nmax loading cycles in millimetres (mm)
1) For test method A1, the cumulative deformation after n = 3600 loading cycles is reported;
2) For text method A2, the cumulative deformations after n = 2500 and n = 5000 are reported.
b) the cumulative axial strain after nmax loading cycles in percent (%);
1) For test method A1, the cumulative axial strain after n = 3600 loading cycles is reported;
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2) For text method A2, the cumulative axial strain after n = 2500 and n = 5000 are reported.
c) creep characteristics, if requested;
d) the mean creep characteristics, if requested.
7.9 Precision
A precision study on test method A1 (block pulse loading) indicated the values of repeatability and
reproducibility (ref. VTI notat 24-2001 written by H. Hakim and L. Viman):
— repeatability r; approximately 17,3 %;
— reproducibility R; approximately 21,5 %.
8 Test method B — Triaxial cyclic compression test

8.1 Principle
This test method determines the resistance to permanent deformation of a cylindrical test specimen of
bituminous mixture. The test specimen is either prepared in the laboratory or cored from the road.
A cylindrical test specimen, maintained at elevated conditioning temperature, is placed between two
plan parallel loading platens. The test specimen is subjected to a static confining pressure, σ c , on which
a cyclic axial pressure σ A ( t ) is superposed.
It is possible to apply dynamic confining pressure. In this case, the following formulae has to be
adapted.
The cyclic axial pressure can be:
a) a haversinusoidal pressure σ A ( t ) , with amplitude σ V , as represented in Figure 8:
σ A ( t=) σ c + σ V ⋅ (1 + sin ( 2π ⋅ f ⋅ t − π / 2) ) (5)
Rest periods can be applied ( σ rest = σ c ). In this case, the loading signal is characterized by the duration
of loading pulse and of the rest period t load / t rest :
where
σ A (t ) is the cyclic axial pressure as a function of time, in kilopascal (kPa);
σc is the confining stress (all around the test specimen), kilopascal (kPa);
σV is the amplitude of the haversinusoidal pressure, in kilopascal (kPa);
f is the frequency of a loading pulse, in hertz (Hz);

t load duration of the loading pulse;
t rest duration of the rest period between 2 loading pulses;

t is the time, in seconds (s).
NOTE 1 For haversinusoidal signal the loading frequency corresponds to the loading pulse duration: f = 1/
t load .
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If a confining stress of less than 25 kPa is applied (e.g. for simulating unconfined test specimens) a
minimum axial load of 25 kPa should be applied in order to avoid the lifting of the loading platen from
the test specimen surface during the test.
b) a block-pulse pressure σ A ( t ) , with height σ B , as represented in Figure 9. The resulting total
pressure is:
σ A (t ) = σ c + σ B (t ) (5.a)
where
σ A (t ) is the cyclic axial pressure as a function of time, in kilopascal (kPa);
σ A (t ) is equal to σ B during pulse period T1 and is equal to σ c during rest period T0
σc is the confining stress, in kilopascal (kPa)
σB is the height of block pulse, in kilopascal (kPa)
In both cases a small dead stress of maximum 0,02 ⋅(2 ⋅ σ V + σ c ) in the case of haversinusoidal loading
and 0,02 ⋅ (σ B + σ c ) (for block-pulse loading) is allowed.
Key
σA total axial pressure, kP at time, s
σc confining pressure t load duration of the loading pulse
σV amplitude of the haversinusoidal pressure t rest duration of the rest period
Figure 8 — Representation of the pressures exerted on the test specimen in case of

haversinusoidal cyclic loading with and without rest periods
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Key
σA total axial pressure, kPa 1 height of block pulse σ B
σc confining pressure 2 Pulse duration, x 1 + x 2 + x 3 + x 4 < 20 % of the whole pulse duration
σB height of block pulse T1 Pulse duration

t time, s T0 Rest period
Figure 9 — Representation of the pressures exerted on the test specimen in case of block-pulse
cyclic loading
During the test the change in height of the test specimen is measured at specified numbers of loading
cycles. From this, the cumulative axial strain, ε n , (permanent deformation) of the test specimen is
determined as a function of the number of loading cycles. The results are represented in a creep curve
as given in Figure 1. From this, the creep characteristics of the test specimen are computed.
NOTE 4 The actual stress conditions in the road cannot be simulated in the laboratory with simple test
equipment. They depend on time (position of the wheel), the road structure, the depth in the structure, the
stiffness of other layers, among other aspects. Therefore, the applied load conditions are only an approximation of
the loads that occur in reality. One might suggest that application of a cyclic confining stress is to be preferred
over a static confining stress. However, given the considerations just mentioned above and the fact that cyclic
confining stresses require advanced and expensive equipment, it is not applied for type testing.
The outcome of the test is dependent on the stress conditions, on the testing temperature, the frequency
and rest period and on the dimensions of the test specimens. Results obtained with a haversinusoidal
loading cannot be quantitatively compared to those obtained with block-pulse loading, because of the
presence of rest periods and the different shape of the signal. Results of triaxial compression tests can
only be fully compared, if they are obtained under the same testing conditions. Also, in the case that the
outcome of the test is used to check on the acceptability of a given mixture, the results should be
evaluated with respect to specific requirements related to well-defined testing conditions.
8.2 Apparatus and test system
8.2.1 General
The axial loading system shall consist of two steel loading platens between which the test specimen is
placed. The confining pressure and the axial cyclic pressure shall be applied by means of a servo-
hydraulic, pneumatic, electro-magnetic or other suitable system.
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The test specimen shall be put in a suitable protection to separate the test specimen from the confining
medium. A direct contact between confining gases (air) or liquids (water, oil) on one hand and the test
specimen on the other hand shall be prevented.
NOTE 1 Rubber foil is a suitable protection.
Depending on the way of applying the confining stress, three types of triaxial test systems are
introduced. They are represented in Figure 10 to Figure 12.
a) In the test system represented in Figure 10, the whole test specimen, including the upper and lower
platens, shall be put in a rubber socket (or foil). The rubber socket shall seal the circumference of
the platens to ensure that ingress of water, oil or air does not occur.
NOTE 2 This might be achieved by using O-rings.
The whole set-up shall be mounted in the test rig, and a pressure cell is placed around the test
specimen. Then the confining pressure is applied by pressurizing the cell (by water, oil or air as
medium). The axial cyclic load shall be subsequently applied.
b) In the test system represented in Figure 11, a lateral confining pressure shall be applied to the test
specimen by placing it in a “pressure ring”.
NOTE 3 This might be achieved by mounting an inner tube of an appropriate sized tyre around the test
specimen and inflating this tyre.
Before applying the desired lateral confining pressure, the test specimen is mounted in the set-up and
the loading platens are brought into contact with the test specimen. After applying the lateral confining
pressure, a constant axial stress (equal to the inflation pressure) shall be applied via the platens, to
create a confining stress all around the test specimen. The axial cyclic load shall be subsequently
applied.
c) In the test system represented in Figure 12, the confining pressure shall be realized by applying a
partial vacuum to the test specimen. The test specimen shall be sealed within a rubber membrane.
Sealing can be secured at either end by two O-rings which rest in purpose cut grooves around the
perimeter of two specially designed platens. For the extraction of air, the lower platen may, e.g. be
hollow and may, e.g. have a series of drainage holes arranged in a radial pattern on its top surface. It
also may, e.g. have an outlet pipe fitted in the base which connects via a pressure regulator and gauge to
a vacuum pump.
An effective confining stress shall be realized on the test specimen by extracting air from the test
specimen. The axial cyclic load shall be subsequently applied.
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Key
1 actuator for dynamic pressure 4 confining pressure
2 pressure cell 5 compressor
3 sealed Test specimen
Figure 10 — Schematic representation of a triaxial cyclic compression test device with pressure
cell
Key
1 actuator for dynamic pressure 4 lateral pressure
2 pressure cell 5 compressor
3 sealed test specimen 6 inner tube
Figure 11 — Schematic representation of a triaxial cyclic compression test device with pressure
ring
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Key
1 actuator for dynamic pressure 4 vacuum membrane
2 test specimen put under partial vacuum 5 vacuum pump
3 ‘O’ ring
Figure 12 — Schematic representation of a triaxial cyclic compression test device making use of
a partial vacuum as confining pressure
8.2.2 Loading platens
The loading platens shall deform less than 2 µm when a vertical stress of 250 kPa is applied.
NOTE 1 This can be verified by measuring the vertical deformations of the load platens with a dummy test
specimen that deforms less than 2 µm on application of a 250 kPa stress, placed between the platens or by
pressing the two loading platens directly onto each other.
The surfaces of the platens shall be flat and smooth. The clearance between the two platens shall be
such that test specimens can be accommodated.
Choose the diameter of the loading platens slightly larger than the diameter of the test specimen, so as
to avoid that part of the test specimen would be no longer loaded in case of serious radial deformation.
NOTE 2 A 10 mm larger diameter is suitable for that purpose.
8.2.3 Control system
The apparatus shall be provided with a system to control the confining and cyclic axial stresses
separately.
8.2.4 Load cell
The load cell shall have a measuring range capable of measuring the required stresses and have an
accuracy of 2 % or better.
8.2.5 Height measurements
The measurements shall be taken between the platens or directly on the upper loading platen.
The accuracy of the temperature control shall be ± 0,5 °C or better.
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To apply the chosen temperature to the test specimen, either the whole test apparatus shall be placed in
a thermostatic chamber, or the test apparatus shall be equipped with a temperature chamber in which
the test specimen is mounted.
8.3 Test specimen preparation
8.3.1 Dimensions
Each test specimen shall have the shape of a cylinder. The end of the test specimen shall be even and
plan-parallel, which is achieved by sawing both ends of the test specimen. A diamond tipped masonry
saw equipped with parallel blades is recommended. The ends shall be parallel and perpendicular to the
cylinder axis with an angle of less than 3 °. For a rough control of evenness: brush the hand over the
surface. If it feels even without blemishes it shall be considered adequate, otherwise it shall be polished.
After sawing/polishing the test specimen shall be dried at a temperature not exceeding 20 °C.
Although different test specimen dimensions may be used, the following minimum dimensions shall
apply:
— If the nominal maximum aggregate size is less than or equal to 16 mm, the minimum diameter shall
be 50 mm and the minimum height shall be 50 mm;
— if the nominal maximum aggregate size is greater than 16 mm, the minimum diameter shall be
75 mm and the minimum height shall be 75 mm.
NOTE 1 Some equipment makes use of the minimum test specimen dimensions. It makes the test less complex.
Other equipment uses a height-to-diameter-ratio of 1,25 to 2 in order to obtain a homogeneous state of stress and
hence much higher test specimens. It makes the test heavier to carry out and, for some test specimen dimensions,
impossible to perform on cores taken from the road.
NOTE 2 It is known that the creep parameters depend on the height-to-diameter-ratio of the test specimen.
Test results obtained on test specimens having different dimensions cannot therefore generally be quantitatively
compared. Hence, in the case that the outcome of the test is used to check on the acceptability of a given mixture,
the results should be evaluated with respect to specific requirements related to test specimens with well-defined
dimensions.
Measure the dimensions on the dry test specimen according to EN 12697-29, using a venier calliper.
The height of the test specimen shall not vary by more than 1,0 mm and the diameter shall not vary by
more than 2 mm.
8.3.2 Handling
Damage to the test specimen shall be avoided in all stages of sampling, transport and preparation
before testing. During transport and storage the slab and drilled core test specimen shall be fully
supported to prevent deformation or damage.
8.4 Conditioning
8.4.1 Storing conditions
The test specimens shall be stored for between 14 days and 42 days from the time of their manufacture
at a temperature not more than 20 °C. Any damage or deformation shall be prevented.
NOTE The storage time influences the mechanical properties of the test specimen.
For test purposes other than for CE marking, different storage times may be applied.
8.4.2 Cleaning and drying
Test specimens shall be cleaned if necessary by brushing or washing, as required.
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The test specimens shall be dried at ambient temperature to constant mass.

8.4.3 Reduction of friction to loading platens
To minimize the friction between the upper and lower loading platens and the test specimen, the end
faces of the test specimen shall be smooth and plain. Brush the hand over the test specimens’ surface. If
it feels even without blemishes, it shall be considered adequate, otherwise it shall be polished or
ground.
A friction reducing system shall be applied. The friction-reducing system shall consist of a circular disk
cut out of a PTFE-sheet (e.g. Teflon or equivalent). The PTFE-sheet shall have a thickness of 0,5 mm and
a shore hardness between D50 and D60. The diameter of the disk shall comply with the diameter of the
loading platen.
Other systems to reduce the friction between loading platen and test specimen surface may be applied if
proven that the alternative systems reduces the friction in a similar extend as prescribed system and
doesn’t influence the axial strain measurement.
NOTE The amount of friction between the loading platens and the test specimen is known to have a large
impact on the results.
Test specimens shall be conditioned, before mounting, at the test temperature.

The conditioning period can be determined by means of a dummy test specimen.
8.5 Test procedure
8.5.1 Number of tests
To evaluate the resistance to permanent deformation of a given mixture under given test conditions, at
least three test specimens shall be tested.
8.5.2 Test temperature
Ensure that the temperature of the testing chamber including pressure cell and confining media has
reached the specified temperature within ± 0,5 °C before installing the test specimen.
NOTE Test temperatures are generally between 30 °C and 50 °C.
It is recommended to monitor the core temperature of a dummy core during pre-conditioning.

8.5.3 Positioning of test specimen in test device
The test specimen shall be positioned coaxially with the loading platens. In case of self-aligning platens:
before locking the self-aligning loading platen, the test specimen shall be pre-loaded carefully in order
to adjust the self-aligning loading platen such that any slight deviation in the parallelism of the end faces
of the test specimen is corrected. This pre-loading stress shall be 0,02 ⋅ ( 2 ⋅ σ V + σ c ) in the case of
haversinusoidal loading and 0,02 ⋅ (σ B + σ c ) in the case of block-pulse loading. The time of pre-loading
shall not exceed (120 ± 6) s. Then, lock the self-aligning platen.
Mount the displacement transducers.
8.5.4 Testing of test specimen
Before starting the test, make sure that the temperature of the test specimen is at the specified
temperature within ± 0,5 °C. Allow sufficient time between the fixing of the test specimen and the start-
up of the test, for relaxation of the stresses due to the clamping of the test specimen.
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8.5.5 Loading conditions
Before the test loads are applied, the test specimen shall be pre-loaded again for (120 ± 6) s with a static
load equal to 0,02 ⋅ ( 2 ⋅ σ V + σ c ) in the case of haversinusoidal loading and 0,02 ⋅ (σ B + σ c ) in the case of
block-pulse loading.
Immediately after preloading, the confining stress shall be applied.
NOTE 1 Confining stresses σ c in the range 50 kPa to 200 kPa is most often applied.
Within 10 s after that, the cyclic axial load shall be applied with a tolerance of ± 2 % on the target pulse
load time.
NOTE 2 To simulate slow traffic, a lower frequency may be appropriate.
NOTE 3 Examples of pulse duration in use for block-pulse loading are: pulse duration of 1 s with 1 s rest period
and pulse duration of 0,2 s with rest period 0,8 s.
NOTE 4 For the amplitude of the haversinusoidal pressure σ V , values ranging from 100 kPa to 300 kPa are
most often used. For haversinusoidal loading, the amplitude of the haversinusoidal load is usually taken two to
three times larger than the confining stress. For block-pulse loading, pressures σ B of 100 kPa up to 700 kPa are
used.
NOTE 5 For the purpose of Type Testing the loading conditions are given in EN 13108-20.
The results and the shape of the creep curve depend largely on the testing conditions: temperature,
axial and confining stress. However, preferably the combination should be such that stage 2 of the creep
curve exists and that the creep characteristics (see Figure 1) can be determined.
8.5.6 Measurements of permanent deformation
Measure the change in height of the test specimen as the test progresses using the displacement
transducers and a data acquisition system. As a minimum, readings shall be taken after every 10th
loading cycles up to 100 loading cycles, every 100th loading cycles up to 1000 loading cycles and
thereafter every 500 loading cycles. Each measurement shall be taken at a fixed moment in the
loading/unloading cycle. At each measurement, the corresponding loading cycle number shall be
known.
NOTE 1 For haversine loading, measurements are preferably taken at the minimum of the signal. For block
pulse loading, measurements are preferably taken during the rest period and as short as possible to the next
loading pulse.
NOTE 2 More measurements may be necessary, e.g. depending on the type of representation of the creep curve.
During the test, check that the confining stress and the amplitude of the haversinusoidal axial stress or
the height of the block-pulse remain constant within 2 % of the required value.
The test shall be ended after at least 10000 loading cycles. The test may be stopped earlier in case that
the deformation is too large and there is a risk to damage the equipment. The deformation shall be at
least 6 % in this case.
It may happen that stage two of the creep curve is measured during a too short period to determine the
creep parameters. In that case the duration of the test may be extended.
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8.6 Calculation and expression of results

8.6.1 Cumulative strain
Calculate the cumulative strain ε 10000 at 10000 loading cycles in percent of the initial test specimen
height for each measured load application as follows:
( h0 − h10000 )
ε 10000 = 100 ⋅ (6)
ti
where
ε 10000 is the cumulative axial strain of the test specimen after 10000 loading cycles, in percent
(%) to the nearest 0,01 %;
transducers after preload of the test specimen, in millimetres (mm);
transducers after n loading cycles, in millimetres (mm);
ti is the initial thickness of the test specimen in mm.
8.6.2 Creep curve
8.6.2.1 General
The resistance to permanent deformation of the mixture shall be determined by interpreting the creep
curve, according to one of the following methods by minimizing the squared error between curve fit and
measured deformation:
8.6.2.2 Method 1: Determination of the creep rate, f c
If stage 2 is present represent the creep curve on a linear scale, determine the slope B1 from the least
square linear fit of the (quasi) linear part of the creep curve (stage 2):
ε=
n A1 + B1 ⋅ n (7)
where
εn is the cumulative axial strain of the test specimen after n loading cycles, in percent (%)
to the nearest 0,01 %;.
n number of loading cycles;
A1 B1 regression constants;
,
Determine the creep rate, f c , in the (quasi)linear part of the creep curve in (µm/m/loading cycle) to
the nearest 0,01 (µm/m/loading cycle):
f c = B1 ⋅ 10 4 (8)
The parameter f c is used to characterize the resistance to permanent deformation of a given mixture.
NOTE 1 This method is simple, but has the disadvantage that it is only a poor representation of the creep curve.
Furthermore, the creep rate f c depends highly on the selected interval used for curve fitting, because there is
generally no part with real constant slope in the creep curve.
31
BS EN 12697-25:2016
EN 12697-25:2016 (E)
The linear part of the creep curve can be taken as those data points which deviate by a maximum of 2 %
from a proposed linear formula. All such data points should be included in the analysis.
If the creep curve shows a turning point and stage 3 within 10000 load cycles, the creep rate f c is
measured at the creep slope in the inception point. In this case, the number of loading cycles nin until
inception is recorded.
8.6.2.3 Method 2: Determination of the parameters B and ε 1.000,calc
Determine the following least square power fit of the (quasi) linear part of the creep curve:
ε n A⋅nB + C
= (9)
where
εn is the cumulative axial strain of the test specimen after n loading cycles, in percent (%), to the
nearest 0,01 %;
A regression constant;
B is the power of the least square power fit or is the slope from the least square linear fit on the
log ( ε n − C ) versus log n -values;
C factor to correct deformation at the beginning of the loading.
Determine the calculated permanent deformation after 1000 loading cycles, ε 1000,calc , in percent (%)
to the nearest 0,01 %:
B
ε=
1000,calc A ⋅ 1000 + C (10)
The parameters B and ε1 000,calc are used to characterize the resistance to permanent deformation of
a given mixture.
8.6.2.4 Creep curve without stage 2
If only stage 1 and stage 3 of the creep curve are present, or if the deformation is so large that the test is
already stopped after a short number of loading cycles so that only phase 1 is observed, the mixture
shall be considered as very sensitive to permanent deformation for the given test conditions. Values of
the permanent deformation corresponding to a well-defined number of loading cycles can be used to
compare such mixtures; e.g. ε 1000 and ε 10000 .
In this case the creep curve can be fitted by Formula (11):
ε= B
n A⋅n + C + D⋅ e (
E ⋅n
−1 ) (11)
where
D, E are factors for describing the third stage of the creep
curve.
8.7 Test report
8.7.1 General
The test report shall make reference to this European Standard and shall include the following
information on the test specimens, on the test conditions and the test results:
32
BS EN 12697-25:2016
EN 12697-25:2016 (E)
8.7.2 Information on the test specimens
For each test specimen the following information shall be provided in the test report:
a) type and origin of material tested;
b) test specimen identification number;
c) test specimen preparation method: laboratory made (refer to relevant EN standard) or cored from
the road;
d) average diameter, in millimetre;
e) initial height, in millimetre;
f) bulk density, in gram per cubic centimetre, to the nearest 0,001 g/cm3;
g) age of test specimens at test and storage conditions under which it was kept;
h) additional observations (including the number of discarded test specimens).
8.7.3 Information on the test conditions
For each test specimen the following information shall be provided in the test report:
a) test temperature;
b) confining stress, in kilopascal;
c) shape of the cyclic signal: haversine or block-pulse;
d) amplitude of the haversinusoidal stress, or height of the block pulse, in kilopascal;
e) frequency, in hertz (in case of haversinoidal axial load); pulse duration and rest period (in case of
block-pulse loading or haversinusoidal loading with rest periods).
8.7.4 Test results
For each test specimen the following information on test results shall be provided in the test report:
a) creep curve;
b) creep characteristics, if requested, with representation of the fit on the creep curve;
c) the mean creep characteristics, if requested.
8.8 Precision
A precision exercise according to this standard has not yet been carried out.
A precision study with the Vacuum Repeated Load Axial Test (VRLAT) involving 7 laboratories testing
6 replicate test specimens of 3 materials, led to the values of repeatability and reproducibility given in
Table 1 (ref. M. E. Nunn et al., 2nd Eurasphalt and Eurobitume Congress, Barcelona 2000, p. 590).
33
BS EN 12697-25:2016
EN 12697-25:2016 (E)
Table 1 — Repeatability, r, and reproducibility, R, for the strain at the end of the test
Cumulative strain at end of test (%)

SMA Hot rolled asphalt Asphalt concrete
Mean value 0,74 0,14 0,36
Repeatability, r 0,17 0,41 0,08
Reproducibility, R 0,17 0,73 0,16
34
BS EN 12697-25:2016
EN 12697-25:2016 (E)
Annex A
(informative)
Procedure for correction of test results obtained from test specimen of

varied age
0,23
 age 2 
ε age1 = ε age2 ⋅   (A.1)
 age1 
where
ε age1 Cumulative strain at corrected time ( age1 ) in %
ε age2 Reported cumulative strain at testing time ( age 2 ) in %
age1 age of core with corrections time (from the day it lays on the road) in days
age 2 age of core with testing time (from the day it lays on the road) in days
NOTE This equation was found valid for site-ageing effects on asphalt concrete mixtures with unmodified
bitumen of penetration grades between 85 and 180 1/10 mmm. Reference: Said, S.F. (2005). Aging effect on
mechanical characteristics of bituminous mixtures. Transportation research Record No. 1901, pp 1-9, Washington
D.C.”
35
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BS EN 12697-25:2016

BSI Standards Publication

Bituminous mixtures — Test

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 12697-25

ICS 93.080.20 Supersedes EN 12697-25:2005

Bituminous mixtures - Test methods - Part 25: Cyclic

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 19 May 2016.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels

7.7.2 Creep rate and creep modulus ................................................................................................................. 20

This document supersedes EN 12697-25:2005.

Compared with EN 12697-25:2005 the following changes have been made:

a) addition of uniaxial compression test with confinement for mastic asphalt;

b) precision of friction-reducing system for loading surfaces;

d) implementation of digit numbers for test results;

e) clarification of formulae and definitions.

This European standard is one of a series of standards as listed below:

— EN 12697-2, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 2: Determination of particle size

— EN 12697-4, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 4: Bitumen recovery: Fractionating

— EN 12697-18, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 18: Binder drainage

— EN 12697-35, Bituminous mixtures — Test methods — Part 35: Laboratory mixing

1) Currently at Enquiry stage.

3) In preparation for CEN/TS or EN.

EN 12697-35, Bituminous mixtures - Test methods - Part 35: Laboratory mixing

EN 13108-20, Bituminous mixtures - Material specifications - Part 20: Type Testing

3 Terms and definitions

Figure 1 — Example of creep curve

5.3 Data registration equipment

5.5 Measuring instruments and accessories needed

6 Test specimen preparation

At least three test specimens shall be prepared for testing.

For rolled asphalt the test shall be performed on

NOTE 1 The way of compaction has a considerable impact on the results.

NOTE 2 For type testing: the compaction method is given in EN 13108–20.

6.3 Preparation of mastic asphalt test specimen

— Wooden tamper for levelling mastic asphalt

— Release agent, (e.g. silicone grease or glycerine)

6.3.2 Procedure for moulded test specimen

The dimensions measured on the dry test specimen according to EN 12697-29.

7 Test method A — Uniaxial cyclic compression test with confinement

Figure 2 — Lower edge of the platen

7.2.2 Loading pulse

Figure 3 — Test apparatus

Figure 4 — Stress and strain curve for rectangular pulse loading

Figure 5 — Loading curve for block pulse loading

7.3 Test method A2 – Haversine pulse loading

Figure 6 — Upper loading platen for test method A2

7.3.2 Loading pulse

Figure 7 — Loading curve for haversine pulse loading

7.4 Test specimen

The test specimen shall have the following dimensions:

7.5.2 Cleaning and drying of test specimens

If necessary, the test specimens shall be cleaned by brushing or washing, as required.

Test specimens shall be conditioned at the test temperature.

7.6 Test procedure

7.6.3.1 Loading conditions (Method A1)

7.6.4 Measurement of permanent deformation

7.7.1.1 Cumulative permanent deformation

7.8 Test report