Hashemite University

College of Engineering
Civil Engineering Department

Highway Engineering

Highway Engineering
Laboratory Manual

1
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

SUBJECT

Report Structure
Experiment 1. California Bearing Ratio Test (CBR)

Experiment 2. Penetration of Bituminous Materials

Experiment 3. Softening Point of Bituminous Materials

Experiment 4. Ductility of Bituminous Materials

Experiment 5. Flash and Fire Points of Bitumen

Experiment 6. Specific Gravity of Asphalt Cement

Experiment 7. Kinamatic Viscosity of Bitumen

Experiment 8. Viscosity of Asphalts by Vacuum Capillary

Viscometer
Saybolt Viscosity of Liquid Asphalt (Universal
Experiment 9.
and Furol)
Experiment 10. Aggregate Blending to Meet Specifications

Experiment 11. Specific Gravity of Coarse and Fine Aggregate

Experiment 12. Marshall Mix Design procedure

Experiment 13. Asphalt Extraction

Experiment 14. Skid Resistance

2
 Hashemite University
College of Engineering
Civil Engineering Department

CE401334
Highway Engineering Laboratory

REPORT STRUCTURE
The report should be scientifically prepared, neat, and well organized.
It should include the following main parts:
Cover Page: Shows the University name, course name, lab number and title,
student name and student I.D. number.
Abstract: Very short statement about the experiment, its final results and
your conclusions.
Introduction: General importance of the experiment and particular
importance of the findings, location of the study if any and the
specific statement of the studied problem.
Objectives: The precise statement of the purposes of the experiment.
Methodology: Describe the methodology of the study and the specific steps
(procedure) of your work. Include illustrative maps, sketches, ..
etc., if needed.
Data Collection and Analysis:
Present the collected data in an easily interpreted forms (tables,
figures, ..) and carry out the needed calculations and analysis so
that you are able to draw clear results.
Result: State your final results directly, clearly, and precisely.
Discussion and Conclusions:
Discuss your results and draw clear conclusions.
Recommendations:
List any recommendations about the practical use of the results
and how can they be applied.
References: Written in a formal way and in an alphabetical order.

3
 Hashemite University
College of Engineering
Civil Engineering Department

Highway Engineering Laboratory

(0401334)

Following are the weights on the parts of the report:

Part of the Report Weight (%)

Cover page 5
Abstract 5
Introduction 10
Objectives 10
Methodology 10
Data Collection and Analysis 15
Results 10
Discussion and Conclusions 15
Recommendations 15
References 5
TOTAL 100

Notes: 1. Absolutely no late reports are accepted.

2. Bonus is expected for a well prepared report and for any extra
put effort.
3. Failure to attend the lab meeting implies missing the chance to
submit the report required for this session.

4
 Experiment No. 1

California Bearing Ratio Test (CBR)

Objective
To determine the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) of pavement subgrade,
subbase, and base/course materials from laboratory compacted
specimens. It is a penetration test wherein a standardized piston, having
an end diameter of 49.53mm (1.95in), is caused to penetrate the soil at a
standard rate of 1.27mm/min (0.05in/min). The CBR value is calculated
as the ratio of the unit weight at 2.54mm (0.1in) penetration to a standard
unit weight.

Significance of the Test

Although the CBR test is an empirical test, but it’s widely used in
evaluating the strength of the compacted soil, and is used in pavement
design for both roads and airfields. Some design methods use the CBR
values directly. Others convert the CBR value to either the modulus of
subgrade reaction ks, or to the resilient modulus MR using empirical
relationships. For example the Asphalt Institute design procedure uses
the following formulas to convert CBR to MR:

MR (MPa) = 10.342 CBR

(1)
MR (lb/in2) = 1500 CBR (2)

General Discussion

5
The basic testing procedure employed in the determination of the CBR
was developed by the California Division of Highways before World War
II and was used by that agency in the design of flexible pavements. The
basic procedures of this test were adopted by the Corps of Engineers of
the U.S. Army during the early stages of the war and served as a basis for
the development of design curves that were used for determining the
required thickness of flexible pavements for airport runways and
taxiways. Certain modifications were made in the test procedure, and it
became a standardized test procedure (ASTM D 1883).
The selected sample of subgrade soil is compacted in a mold that is 152
mm (6 in) in diameter and 152 to 178 mm (6 to 7 in) high. The moisture
content, density, and compactive effort used in molding the sample are
selected to correspond to expected field conditions. After the sample has
been compacted, a surcharge weight equivalent to the estimated weight of
pavement, base, and subbase layers is placed on the sample, and the entire
assembly is immersed-in water for 4 days.
At the completion of this soaking period the sample is removed from the
water and allowed to drain for a period of 15 min. The sample, with the
same surcharge imposed on it, is immediately subjected to penetration by
a piston 49.53 mm (1.95 in) in diameter moving at a speed of 1.27
mm/min (0.05 in/min). The total loads corresponding to penetrations of
2.5, 5.0, 7.5, 10.0, and 12.5 mm (0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 in) are
recorded.
A load-penetration curve is then drawn, any necessary corrections made,
and the corrected value of the unit load corresponding to 2.5 mm (0.1 in)
penetration determined. This value is then compared with a value of 6.9
MPa (1000 lb/in2) required to produce the same penetration in standard
crushed rock. The CBR is then calculated by the expressions

6
 unit load at 2.5 mm penetratio n (MPa)
CBR (%)   100 (3)
6.9 MPa

unit load at 5.0 mm penetratio n (MPa)

CBR (%)   100 (4)
10.3 MPa

The CBR value is usually based on the load ratio for a penetration of 2.5
mm (equation 3). If however, the CBR value at a penetration of 5.0 mm
(equation 4) is higher than the obtained value from equation 3, the test
should be repeated. If the repeated test also yields a larger value, then the
CBR at 5.0 mm penetration should be used.
It should be noted that this penetration test may also be performed in the
field or on "undisturbed" samples.
ASTM D1883 recommends preparing three samples at the optimum
moisture content at three compaction efforts to have a unit weight range
that will include the field unit weight.

Apparatus and Equipment:

CBR test requires the following equipment:
 152 mm diam. x 178 mm height (6*7 in) CBR compaction mold
with collar and spacer disk (151-mm diam. x 61.4 mm height) (or
51mm height as available).
 Compaction rammer, either 24.4 N (5.5 lb) dropped from 305 mm
(12 in) height or 44.5 N (10.0 lb) dropped from 457 mm (18 in)
height as designated by instructor. (Figure 4.1)
 Expansion-measuring apparatus consisting of perforated plate with
adjustable stem, tripod, and dial gauge reading to 0.01 mm.
 Surcharge weights as required.
 Compression machine equipped with CBR penetration piston
(49.53 mm diam. with cross- sectional area of 19.35 cm2) and
capable of a penetration rate of 1.3 mm/min (0.05 in/min) (Figure
4.1)
 150mm diameter course filter paper

7
Sample Preparation:
1- Prepare 36 kg (enough for three samples) of an air dried soil
sample that passes the 19mm (3/4”) sieve. If the sample contains
material larger than 19 mm it has to be replaced by an equivalent
quantity passing sieve # 19 mm and retained on sieve number 4.
2- Oven dry about 200 g of the soil and determine the natural
moisture content.

Figure 4.1: Required equipment for the CBR test

3- Add the required amount of water so that the moisture content of

the sample is within 0.5% of the optimum moisture content.
4- Weight the empty mold and record its weight in the data sheet.
5- Assemble the 150 mm mold, extension collar and perforated base
plate by clamping the mold fitted with the extension collar to the
base plate.
6- Insert the spacer disc over the base plate and position a 150mm
diameter course filter paper on top of the spacer disc.
7- Compact the sample in 3 or 5 (as specified) equal layers by 10
blows per layer using the specified hammer and height of drop.
8- Remove the extension ring and strike off excess soil with a straight
edge. Left the mold and remove the base plate and the spacer disk.
9- Weight the filled mold, and record it in the data sheet. Calculate
the compacted soil density by dividing the soil weight by the mold
volume (2305 cm3).

8
 10- Place filter paper on the base plate, then invert the mold and place
it over the base plate. Place another filter paper on top of the soil
in the mold.
11- Repeat steps 4 to 11 above but using 25 tamps and 55 tamps.

Test Procedure:
Soaking the Sample and Measurement of Swell
1- Place the perforated plate with the adjustable stem attached to it on
the filter paper on top of the compacted soil sample.
2- Place a surcharge weight on the perforated plate to account for the
weight of all the layers that will be placed on top of the subgrade.
This surcharge weight should not be less than 4.5 Kg.
3- Place the mold in a water bath so that the water level is within 12.5
mm of the top of the mold. Water should be allowed to access the
soil from the bottom of the mold. In addition, the water levels
inside and outside the mold should be equal.
4- Place the tripod with the dial gauge on the mold and take the initial
dial readings.
5- Allow the specimen to soak for 4 days and maintain the constant
water level inside and outside the mold.
6- Periodically take the swell readings and record them in the data
sheet. At the end of the soaking period, take a final dial reading
and calculate the swell as a percentage of the height of the
specimen (125 mm).

Amount of Swell
Swell (%)  100 (5)
Original Specimen height (125mm)

7- Remove the expansion apparatus and surcharge weights and lift

the mold out of the water bath. Allow the mold to drain for
15minutes.
8- Weigh the specimen (Wwet filled) and determine the soil density after
soaking.

Application of Penetration Load

9
 9- Place one 2.47Kg annular surcharge disc on the soil surface and
place the mold in the loading frame.
10- Seat the penetration piston with a 4.54Kg (0.05kN) load and set
the dial gauges for load and strain to zero.
11- Place further surcharge weights on the sample (if needed) until
this surcharge weight equals the soaking surcharge weight.
12- Apply the load to the piston at a uniform rate of 1.25mm per
minute of penetration. Note the load readings for every 0.25mm
of penetration until 7.5mm of penetration.
13- On completion of the penetration release the load and remove the
mold from the testing machine.
14- Remove the specimen from the mold and determine the moisture
content for the entire depth of the sample.

Calculation
1- Plot the readings of load against the penetration readings and draw
a smooth curve through the points.
2- The curve is normally concave downward, although the initial
portion might concave upward due to surface irregularity. In this
case, correction should be done by drawing a tangent to the curve
at the point of greatest slope. The corrected curve will be used in
all further calculations. Figure 4.2 shows examples of corrected
CBR curves.
3- From the obtained curve make a computation of the load at the
corrected penetration of 2.5mm and 5.0mm. The obtained values
(in kg) are expressed as percentages of the standard loads of 3000lb
and 4500 lb respectively.
4- Calculate CBR as follows:

Load at 2.5mm penetratio n (kg)

CBR (%)   100 (6)
1364 kg

Load at 5.0mm penetratio n (kg)

CBR (%)   100 (7)
2045 kg

5- Usually the value at 2.5mm is greater than that at 5.0mm

penetration and the former is taken as the CBR value.
6- If CBR2.5 < CBR5.0 repeat the test on another soil sample. In the
case that the second test still gives CBR2.5 < CBR5.0 , then take the
CBR value as the value corresponding to 5.0mm penetration.

10
Figure 4.2 Corrected CBR curves.

11
Report
1- Draw a curve of molded dry density versus corrected CBR values
for the used soil. Figure 4.3 shows an example of the required
curve.
2- Will equation 3 give different results than the results obtained from
equation 6, why?
3- Do you think that one sample at each compaction effort is enough,
why?

Figure 4.3 Dry density versus corrected CBR values.

References:
ASTM D1557-91, (2000) “Standard Test Method for Laboratory
Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using Modified Effort (56,000
ft-lbf/ft3 (2,700 kN-m/m3))”.
ASTM D1883-99, (2000) “Standard Test Method for CBR (California
Bearing Ratio) of Laboratory-Compacted Soils”.
ASTM D698-91, (2000) “Standard Test Method for Laboratory
Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using Standard Effort (12,400
ft-lbf/ft3 (600 kN-m/m3))”.

12
Wright, Paul H., (1996) “Highway Engineering,” Sixth Edition, John
Wiley, New York.

13
 Hashemite University
College of Engineering
Highway Engineering Lab
California Bearing Ratio Worksheet # 1
Operator: Job Site:
Date: Soil Description:
a) Optimum (or Target) Moisture
Content:
No. of Layers: Hammer Weight: Drop Height:
Determination of Initial Moisture Content
b) Container No.
c) Weight of Can
d) Weight of Can + Wet Soil
e) Weight of Can + Dry Soil
f) Weight of Wet Soil (d – c)
g) Weight of Dry Soil (e – c)
f g
h) Moisture Content ( 100)
h
Preparation of CBR Samples
# of Blows per Layer
i) Total Weight of Used Soil
j) Required Weight of Water to be Added
i
(( a  h) * ( )
1  (h / 100)

k) Mold Number
l) Empty Mold Weight (without base)
m) Weight of Mold + Soil
n) Weight of Soil (m – l)
o) Bulk Density of Soil (n / 2305) (Mg/m3)
p) Molded Dry Density
(100 * o / (100 + a))
q) Weight of Mold + Soaked Soil
r) Weight of Soaked Soil (q – l)
s) Bulk Density of Soaked Soil (r / 2305) (Mg/m3)
Determination of Final Moisture Content
t) Container No.
u) Weight of Can
v) Weight of Can + Wet Soil
w) Weight of Can + Dry Soil
x) Weight of Wet Soil (v – u)
y) Weight of Dry Soil (w – u)
x y
z) Moisture Content ( 100)
y

14
aa) Dry Density of Sample after Soaking
(100 * s / (100 + z))

15
 Hashemite University
College of Engineering
Highway Engineering Lab
California Bearing Ratio Worksheet # 2
Swelling Calculation

Operator: Job Site:

Date: Soil Description:
Optimum (or Target) Moisture
Content:
No. of Layers: Hammer Weight: Drop Height:
Sample Number
Number of Blows per
Layer
Molded Dry Density
Dial % Strain= Dial % Strain= Dial % Strain=
Starting Time Elapsed Reading S Reading S Reading S
and Date Time (* )  100 (* )  100 (* )  100
H H H
0 hr
1 hr
2 hr
4 hr

16
17
 Hashemite University
College of Engineering
Highway Engineering Lab
California Bearing Ratio Worksheet # 3
Load – Penetration Data Sheet
Operator: Job Site:
Date: Soil Description:
1) Optimum (or Target) Moisture
Content:
No. of Layers: Hammer Weight: Drop Height:
Sample Number
Number of Blows per Layer
Molded Dry Density
Load Load Load
Penetration of Plunger (mm)
(kg) (kg) (kg)
0.25
0.50
0.75
1.00
1.25
1.50
1.75
2.00
2.25
2.50
2.75
3.00
3.25
3.50
3.75
4.00
4.25
4.50
4.75
5.00
5.25
5.50
5.75
6.00
6.25
6.50
6.75
7.00
7.25
7.50

18
 Experiment No. 2

Penetration of Bituminous Materials

Definition

Penetration of a bituminous material is defined as the distance

in tenths of millimeter that a standard needle vertically
penetrates a sample of bitumen under specified
conditions of load, time and temperature.

Significance of the Test

The penetration value is a measure of the consistency of the tested
bituminous material. Lower values of penetration indicate harder materials.
Therefore, the result can be considered as a property of the material and can
be used to describe its softness.

Apparatus and Equipment

The required apparatus for the penetration
test is shown in Figure 5.1. It consists of the
following:
1. Penetrometer consisting of a needle
holder which is connected to a scale
capable of measurements to the nearest
0.1 mm.
2. Weights of 50, 100 and 200 gm.
3. Standard penetration needle.
4. Sample containers as follows:

Penetration 200 <

19
 <200 Penetration
<350
Diameter 55 mm 35 mm
Internal 55 mm 75 mm
Depth

Figure 5.1: Required

5. A standard water bath capable of
Apparatus for
maintaining temperature of 25 ± 1 °C.
the
6. Transfer dish of capacity > 350 ml.
Penetration
7. Stop watch accurate to ± 0.1 second.
Test
8. Thermometer.
9. Gloves.

20
Sample Preparation:
1. Heat the sample with care until it is practically fluid. Note not
to overheat the sample more than 60°C above the softening
point.
2. Pour the sample into the container to a sufficient depth. It is a
good practice to fill the container 2 to 5 mm below the tip.
3. Let the sample cool to room temperature. Cover the sample
against dust. Prepare two samples (at least) for every condition
of the test.
4. Transfer the samples using the transfer dish and place them in
a water bath having a controlled temperature. The standard
temperature is 25°C.
5. Keep the sample in the water bath for about two 1.5 to 2 hours
before testing.

Test Conditions:
If the standard temperature could not be met, then special alterations should
be made as follows:

Temperature (°C) 0 4 25 45
Load (gm) 200 200 100 50
Time (seconds) 60 60 5 5

Test Procedure:
1. Clean the needle and place it in its holder.
2. Place the correct weight in position above the needle.
3. Transfer the sample to be tested using the transfer dish and
place it in position.
4. Lower the needle carefully until it touches the surface of the
sample. You can watch the reflection of the needle at the
surface of the sample. The needle should be at least 10 mm
from the sides of the can.
5. Bring the pointer of the apparatus to zero position, or take the
initial reading.

21
 6. Release the needle holder quickly and simultaneously start the
stopwatch.
7. Once the specified period of time is reached, record the reading
of the distance the needle moved and report the value in tenths
of millimeter.
8. Make at least three readings following steps 1 to 7. Make sure
to satisfy the following:
A. Each reading should be at least 10 mm far from
the previous one.
B. During cleaning of the needle, the sample must be
kept in the water bath at the specified
temperature.
C. If penetration is > 200 mm, the needles should be
left in the sample until all the three readings have
been completed.
9. Report the average of at least three readings as the penetration
of the tested bituminous material.

Comments:
1. If the needle comes in touch with water during testing, discard
the reading.
2. If water comes in contact with the surface of the sample,
discard the whole sample and prepare a new one.

Report:
1. Obtain the penetration of the tested material.
2. Judge the acceptability of the test results based on the
following:
a. For single operator, the coefficient of variation
for penetrations above 60 should be less than
1.4%; and for penetrations below 50 the
coefficient of variation should be less than 0.35%.
b. The results of two properly conducted tests by the
same operator on the same material of any
penetration using the same equipment should not
differ from each other by more than 4% or 1 unit
whichever is larger.
c. For multilaboratory precision, the coefficient of
variation for penetrations above 60 should be less

22
 than 3.8%; and for penetrations below 50 the
coefficient of variation should be less than 1.4%.
d. The results of two properly conducted tests on the
same material of any penetration, in two different
laboratories should not differ from each other by
more than 11% or 4 units whichever is larger.
3. Based on the penetration value, find the grade of the bitumen
and comment on the suitability of the tested bitumen for use in
road mixes. Refer to the following table.

23
 Penetration Uses
40 – 50 Bituminous mixtures known as gap-graded (hot-
rolled asphalts).
60 – 70 Bituminous mixtures known as gap-graded or
continuously graded mixes (asphalt concreters).
80 – 100 Continuously graded mixtures or dense bitumen
macadam base stabilization, and in hot climates
for surface dressing maintenance with precoated
clippings in areas where high surface stress
occurs.
150 – 200 Continuously graded mixtures, bitumen
macadam, and surface dressing.

4. Based on penetration, indicate the types of bitumen that are

produced in Jordan, and describe their uses.
5. Is the tested bitumen more suitable for use in hot regions or
cold regions?

References:
ASTM D5-97, (2000) “Standard Test Method for Penetration of Bituminous
Materials”.

24
 Experiment No. 3

Softening Point of Bitumen

Definition

The softening point is practically defined as the temperature at

which a disc of bitumen softens enough to allow a
standard ball resting on it to move downward a distance
of 25 mm.

Significance of the Test

As bitumen does not have a distinct melting point, the results of

the test can be used to:
1. Classify bitumens according to their susceptibility to heat.
2. Classify bitumens according to their suitability to use in
hot or cold regions.
3. Check the uniformity of sources of supplies.
4. Indicate the tendency of bitumen to flow at elevated
temperatures.

Apparatus and Equipment:

The apparatus used in this experiment is called the “Ring and

Ball Apparatus”, which is shown in Figure 6.1. Figure 6.2
at the end of this experiment shows the dimensions of
the apparatus parts.

The apparatus consists of the following:

1. Two brass rings.

25
2. Two 9.5-mm diameter steel balls, each weighs 3.5 gm.
3. Ball centering guides.
4. A flat brass plate.
5. Water bath in the form of a glass vessel.
6. Heating source.
7. Stirrer.
8. Thermometer capable of measuring temperatures in the
range of 2 to 80°C., for low-softening point bitumens, or
thermometer capable of measuring temperatures in the
range 30 to 200°C., for high-softening point bitumens.
9. Any type of silicone oil or grease.
10. Liquid as recommended in Table 6.1.

Figure 6.1: Ring & Ball

Apparatus

26
 1. Table 6.1. Recommended Softening Point test
conditions
Test Condition 1 2 3

Expected 30 °C to 80 °C to 30 °C to
Softeni 80 16 11
ng °C 0 0
Point °C °C

Recommended Freshly USP Ethylene

Liquid boil gly gly
ed cer col
dist in
ille
d
wat
er

Best ASTM ASTM ASTM

Thermo 15 16 11
meter C C 3C
or or
11 11
3C 3C

Starting 5 ± 1°C 30 ± 1°C 5 ± 1°C

Temper
ature

Sample Preparation:
1. Heat the bitumen carefully, with frequent stirring, until it
becomes sufficiently fluid to pour. The maximum allowed
temperature should not exceed 110°C above its
expected
softening point. If the sample is a coal-tar pitch, then the
maximum allowed temperature should not exceed 55 °C
above its expected softening point.
2. Grease the rings and the pouring plate with a thin layer of
grease or silicon oil.

27
 3. Heat the two brass rings to the approximate pouring
temperature.
4. Place the rings on the pouring plate.
5. Pour the sample in the rings allowing some excess of the
material.
6. Let the specimen to cool at room temperature for half an hour.
Cut the excess material with a sharp-edged knife.
7. Since the softening point is not known in advance, it is quite
useful to keep the specimen in a refrigerator in order to obtain
low temperature well below the expected softening point.

Test Procedure:
1. Select the suitable test condition from Table 6.1:
2. Assemble the apparatus into its position.
3. Fill the bath with the suitable liquid, as indicated in Table
6.1, making sure that the liquid depth is 105 ± 3 mm.
4. Start heating or cooling the sample carefully in order to
arrive at the starting temperature. Maintain this
temperature for 15 minutes with the apparatus in place.
5. Place the ball in the center of the sample using the ball-
centering guide.
6. Start heating and observing temperature. Make sure that
heating is at the rate of 5°C per minute.
7. Record the temperature at which the bitumen surrounds
each ball touches the support plate (i.e. moved a
distance of 25 mm).

Calculations:
1. Obtain the softening point as the average of the two
samples. Report the value to the nearest 0.2°C when
ASTM Thermometer 15C is used. Report the value to
the nearest 0.5°C when ASTM Thermometer 15C or
113C is used.
2. If water was not the liquid (as in condition 1) and the
result was > 80°C, adjust the values as follows:
a. If condition 2 was used, then the correction
factor should be –4.2°C, if the tested material
is asphalt.

28
 b. If condition 2 was used, then the correction
factor should be –1.7°C, if the tested material
is coal-tar pitch.
c. If condition 3 was used, then the results must
be adjusted as follows:
1) SP (glycerin) = 1.027 x SP
(Ethylene glycol) – 1.35°C, if
the material tested is asphalt.
2) SP (water) = 0.974 x SP
(Ethylene glycol) – 1.44°C, if
the tested material is asphalt.
3) SP (glycerin) = 1.045 x SP
(Ethylene glycol) – 5.06°C, if
the tested material is coal-tar
pitch.
4) SP (glycerin) = 1.061 x SP
(Ethylene glycol) – 8.41°C, if
the tested material is coal-tar
pitch.
3. Obtain the standard deviation of all the tested samples.

Comments:
1. If the difference between the two samples in the same
test exceeds 1°C, the test must be repeated.
2. The difference between the results of two properly
conducted tests by the same operator should not exceed
1.2°C (i.e. the standard deviation ≤0.41°C) when
conditions 1 or 2 are applied.
3. The difference between the results of two properly
conducted tests from different laboratories should not
exceed 2°C (i.e. the standard deviation ≤0.70°C) when
conditions 1 or 2 are applied.
4. The difference between the results of two properly
conducted tests by the same operator should not exceed
2°C (i.e. the standard deviation ≤0.72°C) when condition
3 is applied.
5. The difference between the results of two properly
conducted tests from different laboratories should not

29
 exceed 3°C (i.e. the standard deviation ≤1.08°C) when
condition 3 is applied.

Discussion:

Discuss the following:

1. Comment on the suitability of the tested asphalt for use in
Sweden, Jordan and Kuwait.
2. Why do results differ when changing the liquid in the
bath?
3. Why water is not suitable for testing materials having
high softening points?
4. Explain how the following factors affect the results of the
test:
a. Increasing rate of heating.
b. Presence of sand in the sample.
c. Reheating and retesting the same sample.
d. Performing the test in air instead of the liquid.

Reference:

ASTM D36-95, (2000), “Standard Test Method for Softening

Point of Bitumen (Ring-and-Ball Apparatus)”.

30
31
 Experiment No. 4

Ductility of Bituminous Materials

Definition

The ductility of a bituminous material is defined as the distance

it will elongate before breaking when the two ends of the
tested sample, shaped using Briquette moulds, are pulled
apart under specific conditions of the experiment.

Significance of the Test

The test provides a general idea about the tensile properties of the tested
bitumen, and hence the result can be used to judge the suitability of the
material for various uses.

Apparatus and Equipment

The apparatus is called ductilometer and is shown in Figure 7.1. It consists
of the following:
10. Briquette moulds and plates.
11. Water bath of a volume not less than 10 liters. A thermostat
should be provided in order to control the temperature during
testing.
12. Testing assembly, which consists of a motor connected to a
pulley and a metal thread, which is connected to the test
specimen.
13. Thermometer capable of measuring temperatures between –8
and 32°C.

32
Sample Preparation
6. Coat the brass plates of Briquette moulds and the moulds with
glycerin or any other material in order to prevent sticking.
7. Place the plates on a smooth horizontal surface.
8. Heat the bituminous sample until it is fluid. Make sure not to
overheat the sample.
9. Pour the sample carefully in the moulds until they are filled
with the material. Do not overfill them.
10. Let the material cool at room temperature for 30 to 40 minutes.
11. Carry the samples carefully on their plates and immerse them
in water of controlled temperature at 25±0.5°C. The specimens
must be kept for a period of not less than 90 minutes in this
condition before testing.

Test Procedure
10. Make sure that at least 10 liters of water are placed in the water
bath and that the specimens are immersed for a distance of not
less than 10 cm below the surface of water.
11. Remove the briquette from the plate.
12. Detach the sidepieces of the briquette and place them in the test
position.
13. Attach the rings at each end of the clips to the pins in the
testing machine. Make sure that the specimens are all covered
with water.
14. Start pulling the specimens with constant speed until rupture
happens. Make sure that during the test, the thread of the
specimen is covered with water for a depth of not less than 2.5
cm above and below.
15. Record the length of the specimen at rupture.

Comments
1. A normal test is the one in which the material between the two
clips pulls to rupture where the thread has practically no cross-
sectional area.
2. If the bituminous material comes in contact with the surface of
water, then the test is considered abnormal. In this case, the
specific gravity of the fluid (water) in the bath should be
reduced. Methyl alcohol can be used in this case.
3. If the bituminous material comes in contact with the bottom of
bath, then the test is considered abnormal. In this case, the

33
 specific gravity of the fluid (water) in the bath should be
increased. Sodium Chloride can be used in this case.
4. The value of ductility of the tested bitumen is the average of
three successive normal tests. If normal test was not attained
after three trials, the ductility is reported “unobtainable”.
5. The test is considered acceptable if the ductility results are
within the ASTM precision values given in Figure 7.2.

Report
1. Is the test normal?
2. Report the ductility of the tested bituminous material.
3. Is the precision of the results accepted by ASTM?

References:
ASTM D113-99, (2000), “Standard Test Method for Ductility of
Bituminous Materials”.

34
Figure 7.2: Precession data chart
35
 Experiment No. 5

Flash and Fire Points of Bitumen

Definitions:

Flash point is defined as the lowest temperature at which the

vapor of the test specimen starts to ignite under the
specified conditions of the test.

Fire point is defined as the lowest temperature at which the test

specimen will sustain burning for five seconds under the
specified conditions of the test.

Significance of the Test

1. Flash point can be used to measure the tendency of the material
to catch flames. It is one of the properties which can be used to
assess the overall flammability of the material.
2. Flash point is used to class flammable and combustible
materials according to safety regulations.
3. Flash point can be used to obtain an idea about the presence of
volatile and flammable substances in a, theoretically, non-
flammable material.
4. Fire point is used to measure combustibility of the material.

Apparatus and Equipment:

The main apparatus is called the Cleveland Open Cup Apparatus, shown in
Figure 8.1.
It consists of the following:
14. Test cup.
15. Heating plate.
16. Test flame.
17. Thermometer capable of
measuring high temperatures up to
500°C.

36

Figure 8.1: Cleveland Open Cup

Apparatus
Sample Preparation:
16. Make sure that the sample is fluid. If the sample is not fluid,
then heat it carefully making sure that the temperature does not
exceed 60ºC below the probable flash point.
17. Fill the cup with the sample to the specified level. Take care
not to overfill the cup.
18. Air bubbles or foams should be carefully removed. Make sure
that the surface is foam or air bubble-free surface before
starting the test.
19. If foam could not be removed, then discard the sample
completely and prepare a new one.

Test Procedure:
1. Let the apparatus stand on a leveled steady place. Protect from
strong sunlight.
2. Wash the test cup carefully using some solvent in order to
remove any traces of oils or residuals.
3. Support the thermometer in a vertical position at 6.4 mm from
the bottom of the cup. Locate the thermometer halfway
between the center and the side of the cup.
4. Fill the cup with the sample to the specified level. Take care
not to overfill the cup. Air bubbles or foams should be
carefully removed as mentioned earlier.
5. Light the test flame adjusting the flame to a diameter of 3 to 5
mm.
6. Start heating the sample with a relatively high speed (14ºC to
17ºC per minute). Continue until the temperature is about 60ºC
below the probable flash point then decrease the heat so that
the rate of heating is about 5ºC to 6ºC per minute.
7. When the temperature is about 30ºC below the probable flash
point, apply the flame to the sample. The flame should be
passed along the center of the sample and also about the
circumference in a smooth way. The flame must be at a
distance of not more than 2 mm above the plane of the edge of
the can. Watch for possible ignition. The passing of the flame
across the cup should be in about one second.
8. Repeat step 7 every increase of 2ºC.
9. Record the temperature at which flash ignition occurs. Record
this value as the flash point.
10. Continue heating with the same rate (5ºC to 6ºC per minute)
and repeat steps 7 and 8.

37
 11. Record the temperature at which ignition occurs and burning
continues for a minimum period of 5 seconds. Record this
value as the fire point of the tested material.
12. Record the ambient barometric pressure.

Calculations:
Calculate the corrected values of the flash and fire points of the tested
samples using the following equations:

Cc= Co + H(AP – P) (1)

where,
Cc = Corrected flash or fire point.
Cc = Observed flash or fire point.
Ap = Barometric pressure at the sea level, which equals 101.3 kPa or
760 Hg.
P = Ambient Barometric pressure.
H = Constant, which equals 0.25 when the pressure is in kPa and
0.033 when the pressure is in Hg.

Comments:
6. The final result should be rounded to the nearest 2ºC.
7. The difference between two successive tests performed by the
same operator in the same laboratory should not exceed 8ºC.
8. The difference between two single and independent results
performed at different laboratories should not exceed 17ºC for
the flash point or 14ºC for the fire point.
9. If the results obtained do not conform to the conditions 2 and
3, the test must be repeated with new samples.
10. The method is suitable for temperatures above 80ºC.

Report:
4. Obtain the average value of the tested samples and judge the
acceptability of the results.

38
 5. Why should the apparatus be sheltered from strong sunlight?
6. How is the result affected if air bubbles are present at the
surface of the test sample?
7. What would you recommend if the flash point of the sample is
expected to be 60ºC?

References:
ASTM D92-90, (2000), “Standard Test Method for Flash and Fire Points by
Cleveland Open Cup”.

39
 Experiment No. 6

SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF ASPHALT CEMENT

Definition:

Specific gravity is defined as the ratio of the mass of the

material at a given temperature to the mass of an equal
volume of water at the same temperature.

Since the specific gravity varies with the temperature, test

results are expressed in terms of specific gravity (Sp. Gr.)
at a given temperature for both the asphalt cement and
the water used in the test. For example, Sp. Gr. 1.02 at
60°/60°F (15.6°/15.6°C) means that the asphalt cement
specific gravity is 1.02 when both the asphalt cement and
the water are at 60°F (15.6°C). Specific gravity at
60°/60°F (15.6°/15.6°C) is normally used for making
monetary compensations or transactions concerning
asphalt cements.

Significance of the Test

Specific gravity of the asphalt cement changes when the asphalt
cement expands on heating. Therefore, Specific gravity
determinations are useful in:
5. Making temperature-volume corrections.
6. Determining the weight per unit volume of asphalt cement
heated to its application temperature.
Apparatus and Equipment:
The pycnometer method is used to determine the specific gravity
of asphalt cements. The needed equipment are:
18. Glass pycnometer, 25 ml capacity, glass, consisting of a
conical vessel with stopper having a hall, Figure 9.1.
19. 600 ml beaker.

40
20. Water Bath.
21. Thermometer.

Figure 9.1: Glass

Pycnometer with
Cover

41
Sample Preparation:
20. Thoroughly clean, dry, and weigh the pycnometer to the
nearest 1 mg. Record this mass as A.
21. Fill a beaker partially with freshly boiled and cooled distilled
water to a level that will allow the top of the pycnometer to be
immersed to a depth of not less than 40 mm.
22. Fill the pycnometer with freshly boiled distilled water, placing
the stopper loosely in the pycnometer. Place the pycnometer in
the beaker and press the stopper firmly in place.
23. Place the beaker in the water bath to a depth sufficient to allow
the bottom of the beaker to be immersed to depth of not less
than 100 mm, while the top of the beaker is above the water
level of the bath.
24. Allow the pycnometer to remain in the water for a period of
not less than 30 min at the required test temperature (25°C).
25. Remove the pycnometer, immediately dry the top of the
stopper with one stroke of a dry towel, then quickly dry the
remaining outside area of the pycnometer.
26. Weigh the filled pycnometer with water to the nearest 1 mg.
Record the weight as B.

Test Procedure:
13. Heat the asphalt sample with care, stirring to prevent local
overheating, until the sample has become sufficiently fluid to
pour. In no case should the temperature be raised to more than
110°C above the expected softening point of the asphalt.
14. Pour enough sample into the clean, dry, and warmed
pycnometer to fill it about three fourths of its capacity. Take
precautions to keep the material from touching the sides of the
pycnometer above the final level and prevent the inclusion of
air bubbles.
15. Allow the pycnometer and its contents to cool to ambient
temperature for a period of not less than 40 min.
16. Weight the partially filled pycnometer with the stopper to the
nearest 1 mg. Record this weight as C.
17. Fill the pycnometer containing the asphalt with freshly boiled
distilled water, placing the stopper loosely in the pycnometer.
18. Place the pycnometer in the beaker and press the stopper firmly
in place. Return the beaker to the water bath.
19. Allow the pycnometer to remain in the water bath for a period
of not less than 30 min. Remove the pycnometer from the bath
and immediately dry it and weigh it. Record this weight as D.

42
Calculations:
Calculate the relative density to the nearest 0.001 as indicated in the
following equation:
relative density = (C-A) / [(B-A) – (D-C)] (1)

where, A = mass of pycnometer (plus stopper),

B = mass of pycnometer filled with water,
C = mass of pycnometer partially filled with asphalt, and
D = mass of pycnometer plus asphalt plus water.

Calculate density to the nearest 0.001 as follows:

Density = specific gravity * w (2)
where, w = density of water at the test temperature.
At 25ºC, w = 997.0 kg/m3

Comments:
11. The difference between two successive tests performed by the
same operator in the same laboratory should not exceed 2.3
kg/m3.
12. The difference between two single and independent results
performed at different laboratories should not exceed 5.4
kg/m3.

Report:
8. Why should the lower surface of the pycnometer stopper be
concave?
9. Obtain the average value of the tested samples and judge the
acceptability of the results.
10. How is the result affected if air bubbles are present at the
surface or within the test sample?

43
References:
ASTM D70-97, (2000), “Standard Test Method for Density of Semi-Solid
Bituminous Materials (Pycnometer Method)”.

44
 Hashemite University

College of Engineering

Highway Engineering Lab

Specific Gravity of Asphalt Cement

Operator: Job Site:

Date: Sample Description:

1) Weight of empty pycnometer with stopper, A

2) Weight of pycnometer + stopper + water, B

3) Weight of water, = (B – A)

4) Weight of pycnometer + stopper + asphalt, C

5) Weight of pycnometer + stopper + asphalt +
water, D
6) Relative density = (C-A) / [(B-A) – (D-C)]

7) Density of water at 25ºC, w , (kg/m3) 997.0 997.0 997.0

7) Density = specific gravity * w

45
 Experiment No. 7

KINEMATIC VISCOSITY OF BITUMEN

Definitions:

Kinematic viscosity is defined as the ratio of the viscosity to the

density of the liquid. It is a measure of the resistance to
flow of a liquid under its own weight (gravity force). In SI
units, kinematic viscosity is measured in m 2/sec, or
mm2/sec. The common unit for kinematic viscosity is
stoke (St). The centistokes (cSt) is 1 mm 2/sec, and 1 cSt
= 1/100 St.

Coefficient of viscosity commonly called viscosity is defined as the ratio

between the applied shear stress and the rate of shear. This coefficient is
another representation of the resistance to flow and is often given in
poise (P) (= 1 g/cm.sec or 1 dyne.sec/cm 2). The SI unit for viscosity is
Pa.sec (N.sec/m 2); which is equivalent to 10 poise.

Newtonian Liquid is defined as the liquid in which the rate of

shear is proportional to the shearing stress, i.e., having a
constant viscosity at certain temperature.

Non-Newtonian Liquid is defined, as that liquid in which the rate

of shear to the shearing stress is not constant.

Significance of the Test

The test can be used to:
7. Characterize the flow behavior of bitumen.
8. Obtain an indirect measure of the consistency of bitumen.
9. Judge and compare the uniformity of shipments and supplies.

Apparatus and Equipment:

22. The main apparatus used is “”, and is shown in Figure 10.1.
23. Standard kinematic viscosity thermometer.
24. Bath of suitable type to allow immersion of the
viscometer reservoir.

46
25. Stop watch capable of reading to 0.1 of a second.
26. Stirring tool.
Figure 10.1: Cannon-Fenske Viscometer for Opaque Liquids

47
Sample Preparation:
A. Liquid Asphalt
12. If the specimen is not at room temperature, allow it to stand,
while sealed, to reach room temperature.
13. Open the sample and mix it thoroughly and gently for 30
seconds.
14. If the sample is not fluid, place the sample in a tightly sealed
container in a controlled temperature environment at a
temperature of 63 ± 3°C until it becomes sufficiently fluid to
stir.
15. Once stirring is complete, charge the viscometer, as will be
mentioned later.

B. Asphalt Cement
1. Heat the sample carefully, while stirring occasionally until it
becomes pourable.
2. Transfer a minimum of 20 ml into a suitable container and heat
to 135 ± 5.5°C, stirring occasionally to prevent local
overheating and taking care to avoid the entrapment of air.

Test Procedure:
27. Maintain the bath temperature at the required test temperature,
i.e. 60 ± 0.01°C for liquid asphalt, and 135 ± 0.03°C for
asphalt cement.
28. Select a clean, dry viscometer which will give an efflux time
greater than 60 sec and preheat to test temperature.
29. Once the sample is ready, charge the sample as follows:
A. Invert the viscometer.
B. Immerse tube N in the liquid sample (Figure
10.2).
C. Apply suction to tube L.
D. Draw liquid through tube N, filling bulb D to fill
mark G.
30. Place stopper in tube L.
31. Wipe the excess material off tube N, place stopper in it, and
revert the viscometer to its normal position.
32. Mount the viscometer in the constant-temperature bath,
keeping tube L vertical.

48
33. Allow the viscometer to stand in the constant temperature bath
in order to reach a constant temperature. The time required
should be between 10 and 30 minutes.
34. Remove the stopper in tube N.
35. Remove the stopper in tube L.
36. Allow the sample to flow in the viscometer by gravity.

49
 Figure 9.2 Cannon-Fenske
Viscometer
37. Observe the sample and record the time, to the nearest 0.1 sec,
required for the material to pass from timing mark E to timing
mark F.
38. Report the temperature.
39. Once test is finished, clean the viscometer using solvents and
water. Usually Chromic acid cleaning solution is used. It may
be prepared by adding 800 ml of concentrated sulfuric acid to a
solution of 92 g of sodium dichromate in 458 ml of water.
14. Dry the tube by passing a slow stream of filtered dried air through the
capillary for 2 min, or until the last trace of solvent is removed.

Calculations:
1. Calculate the kinematic viscosity at the specified temperature as
follows:

KV at test temperature = C * t (1)

where:

50
 KV = kinematic viscosity, cSt.
t = efflux time in seconds.
C = viscometer calibration constant, cSt/sec. The constant can be
obtained using Table 10.1
2. Obtain the mean value of all the tested samples.
3. Calculate the standard deviation and the coefficient of variation
and then comment on the acceptance of the results according to
Table 10.2.

Table 10.1 Constants of the Different Sizes of Cannon-Fenske Viscometers

Size Kinematic Viscosity Approximate Constant

No. Range (cSt) (cSt/sec)
50 0.8 to 4
75 1.6 to 8
200 6 to 100 0.10
300A 15 to 200 0.25
300B 50 to 250 0.246
350 30 to 500 0.50
400 72 to 1200 1.20
450 150 to 2500 2.50
500 340 to 8000 8.00
600 1200 to 20000 20.0

Table 10.2 Acceptability of Test Results for Kinematic Viscosity

Material Coefficient of Acceptable

Operator
Tested Variation (% Range of two

51
 of the mean) results (% of the
mean)
Asphalt
Single
cements at 0.64 ± 1.8
Operator
135°C
Liquid asphalts
at 60 °C
a. <3000
cSt Single
0.53 ± 1.5
b. 3000 - 6000 Operator
0.72 ± 2.0
cSt
3.2 ± 8.9
c. >6000
cSt
Asphalt
Multi-
cements at 135 3.1 ± 8.8
laboratories
°C
Liquid asphalts
at 60 °C
a. <3000
cSt Multi-
1.06 ± 3.0
b. 3000 - 6000 laboratories
3.11 ± 9.0
cSt
3.6 ± 10.0
c. > 6000
cSt

52
Viscosity-Temperature Chart for Asphalts:
The viscosity of asphalt can be estimated at other temperatures else than the
temperatures it is performed at using the viscosity chart. The chart
coordinates are logarithm of the logarithm of the viscosity in mPa.s as the
ordinate, and logarithm of the absolute temperature in degrees Kelvin
(degrees C + 273.2) as the abscissa. However, for simplicity, viscosity in
centistokes (on log scale), and the temperature in degrees Celsius (on
arithmetic scale) are shown in the chart (Figure 10.3).
For temperatures above 60°C plot two viscosity-temperature points and
carefully draw a straight line through the points. Plot at least three viscosity-
temperature points if the included temperature range is below 60°C.

Viscosity - Temperature Chart

1000

Compaction Vioscosity Range

Viscosity, cSt

100 Mixing Vioscosity Range

10
0 50 100 150 200 250
Temperature, C

Figure 10.3: Viscosity-Temperature Chart for

asphalts

53
Carefully draw a straight line or curve through the points. A point on this
line, within the temperature range of the points plotted, shows the viscosity
at the corresponding desired temperature.
To establish mixing and compaction temperatures, it is necessary to develop
a Temperature-Viscosity chart for the asphalt to be used. This can be done
by determining the viscosity at two temperatures, usually at 135° and 165°C.
These two viscosities are then plotted on the Temperature-Viscosity chart.
Then Mixing temperature should be selected to provide a viscosity of 170 ±
20 centistokes. The Compaction temperature should be selected to provide a
viscosity of 280 ± 30 centistokes (Figure 10.3).

Comments:
13. Why are there different sizes of viscosity tubes?
14. Is the tested material considered a Newtonian or non-
Newtonian liquid? Why?
15. Grade the tested asphalt according to viscosity.
16. Draw the obtained viscosities at the viscosity-temperature chart
and obtain the required mixing and compaction temperatures
for this asphalt according to the recommended temperatures in
the Marshall mix design procedure. The recommended
temperatures are:
a. Mixing temperature should be selected to
provide a viscosity of 170 ± 20 centistokes.

b. Compaction temperature should be selected

to provide a viscosity of 280 ± 30 centistokes.

54
References:
ASTM D 2170-95, (2000), “Standard Test Method for Kinematic Viscosity
of Asphalts (Bitumens)”.

ASTM D 2493-95a, (2000), “Standard Viscosity-Temperature Chart for

Asphalts”.

55
 Experiment No. 8

VISCOSITY OF ASPHALTS BY VACUUM CAPILLARY

VISCOMETER
Definitions:
Coefficient of viscosity commonly called viscosity is defined as the ratio
between the applied shear stress and the rate of shear. This coefficient is
another representation of the resistance to flow and is often given in poise
(P) (= 1 g/cm.sec or 1 dyne.sec/cm2). The SI unit for viscosity is Pa.sec
(N.sec/m2); which is equivalent to 10 poise.

Absolute Viscosity is related to the measured time for a fixed volume of the
asphalt to be drawn up through a capillary tube by means of vacuum, under
closely controlled conditions of vacuum and temperature. The viscosity in
poises is calculated by multiplying the flow time in seconds by the
viscometer calibration factor. The test is usually performed at 60°C.

Newtonian Liquid is defined as the liquid in which the rate of shear is

proportional to the shearing stress, i.e., having a constant viscosity at certain
temperature.

Non-Newtonian Liquid is defined, as that liquid in which the rate of shear to

the shearing stress is not constant.

Significance of the Test

The test can be used to:
1. Characterize the flow behavior of bitumen.
2. Obtain an indirect measure of the consistency of bitumen.
3. Judge and compare the uniformity of shipments and supplies.
4. The result can be used for specification requirements of
cutbacks and asphalt cements.

Apparatus and Equipment:

1. The main required apparatus is “AIVV”, and
is shown in Figure 11.1.
2. Standard thermometers of accuracy of 0.02°C.
3. Bath of suitable type to allow immersion of
the viscometer reservoir (Figure 11.2).

56
4. Vacuum system capable of maintaining a
Figure 11.1: Asphalt Institute Vacuum Viscometer
vacuum to within ±0.5 mm of the desired level
up to and including 300 mm Hg.
5. Stop watch capable of reading to 0.1
of a second.
6. Stirring tool.

57
Sample Preparation:
1. Heat the sample carefully, while
stirring occasionally until it
becomes pourable.
2. Transfer a minimum of 20 ml into a
suitable container and heat to 135 ±
5.5°C, stirring occasionally to
prevent local overheating and taking
care to avoid the entrapment of air.

Figure 11.2: Immersion Bath and Vacuum Control

Test Procedure:
1. Maintain the bath temperature at the required test temperature,
i.e. 60 ± 0.02°C.
2. Select a clean, dry viscometer which will give an efflux time
greater than 60 sec and preheat to test temperature.
3. Preheat the viscometer to 135 ± 5.5°C.
4. Pour the sample to within ±2 mm of the fill line E shown in
Figure 11.3.
5. Place the viscometer in a controlled temperature environment
(bath or oven). The temperature must be 135 ± 5.5°C. A
minimum period of 10 minutes is necessary.
6. Quickly, remove the viscometer from the controlled-
temperature environment, and position it vertically in the bath
making sure that the sample level is at least 20 mm above the
farthest timing mark.
7. Apply a 300 ± 0.5-mm Hg vacuum below atmospheric
pressure to the viscometer tube.
8. Wait for 30 minutes and then open the toggle valve to allow
vacuum to reach the tube.
9. Start the timer once vacuum is allowed.
10. Measure the time required for the leading edge of the meniscus
to pass between successive pairs of timing marks. Report the
time to the nearest 0.10 of a second.
11. Report the first flow time that exceeds 60 seconds between a
pair of timing marks, noting the pair of timing marks.

58
12. Clean and dry the viscometer carefully using the appropriate
solvents and methods before starting a new experiment. See
Experiment No. 9 for cleaning procedure.

59
 Figure 11.3 Asphalt Institute Vacuum
Capillary Viscometer
Calculations:
1. Calculate the viscosity at the specified temperature to three
significant figures as follows:

V at test temperature and pressure = k * t (1)

where, V = viscosity in poises.

t = flow time in seconds.
k = viscometer calibration constant that corresponds to the pair
of timing marks used for time determination, in poise/s,
Table 11.1.
2. Obtain the mean value of all the tested samples.
3. Calculate the standard deviation and the coefficient of variation and
then comment on the acceptance of the results according to Table
11.2.
4. Absolute viscosity of bitumen can be calculated from kinematic
viscosity by multiplying the kinematic viscosity by the specific
gravity of the bitumen.
Absolute viscosity in poises = Kinematic viscosity in stokes *
specific gravity (2)

60
Comments:
17. Why are there different sizes of viscosity tubes?
18. Is the tested material considered a Newtonian or non-
Newtonian liquid? Why?
19. Grade the tested asphalt according to viscosity.

Table 11.1 Constants of the Different Sizes of Cannon-Fenske Viscometers

Capillary Approximate ViscometerbConstant (P/sec)
Size Viscosity
Radius,
No. Bulb B Bulb C Bulb D Range, P
mm
25 0.125 2 1 0.7 42 to 800
50 0.25 8 4 3 180 to 3 200
100 0.50 32 16 10 600 to 12 800
200 1.0 128 64 40 2 400 to 52 000
400 2.0 500 250 160 9 600 to 200 000
400R 2.0 500 250 160 9 600 to 1 400 000
800R 4.0 2000 1000 640 38 000 to 5 800 000

Table 11.2 Acceptability of Test Results for Kinematic Viscosity

Acceptable Range of
Operator two results (%
between the means)
Single Operator
±7
(Same viscometer)
Multi-laboratories ± 10

References:
ASTM D 2171-94, (2000), “Standard Test Method for Viscosity of Asphalts
by Vacuum Capillary Viscometer”.

61
 Experiment No. 9

SAYBOLT VISCOSITY OF LIQUID ASPHALT

(UNIVERSAL and FUROL)
Definitions:

Saybolt Universal viscosity is defined as the efflux time, in

seconds, for a standard sample, 60 ml, to pass through a
standard, Universal, orifice under specified conditions.

Saybolt Furol viscosity is defined as the efflux time, in seconds,

for a standard sample, 60 ml, to pass through a standard,
Furol, orifice under specified conditions. The relationship
between Saybolt and Universal viscosities is as follows:

Saybolt Universal viscosity = 10 x Saybolt Furol viscosity (1)

Furol (according to ASTM) is an acronym of “Fuel and road

oils”

Significance of the Test

The test can be used to:
1. Characterize certain petroleum products and compare their
uniformity.
2. Obtain an indirect measure of the consistency of petroleum
product.
3. Judge and compare the uniformity of shipments and supplies.
4. The results can be used to obtain an estimate of the kinematic
viscosity using special tables.

Apparatus and Equipment:

1. Thermometers capable of measuring
temperatures up to 0.2 °C.
2. Filter funnel with interchangeable 150-
µm and 75-µm wire-cloth inserts.

62
3. Receiving flask having a volume greater
than 60 ml with a calibration mark at
the 60 ml volume.
4. Timer with accuracy of 0.1 of a second.

Figure 12.1: Saybolt viscometer and bath

63
 Sample Preparation:
Heat the sample with care stirring occasionally. Make sure that the sample
temperature does not exceed the flash point minus 28°C.

Test Procedure:
3. Choose the suitable orifice. Use the Universal orifice with
liquids and cutbacks having low viscosity. Use the Furol
orifice with liquids and cutbacks having high viscosity.
4. Clean the viscometer and all other equipment with a solvent
and then dry them completely.
5. Place the receiving flask in position, centered beneath the
orifice.
6. Fill the bath with the suitable liquid to a level 6 mm above the
overflow of the rim of the viscometer.
7. Stir the sample during heating so that the sample temperature is
as close as possible to the temperature of the bath.
8. Calibrate the Saybolt viscometer using standard oil at
temperature of 37.8°C following the same steps as for testing
the sample.
9. Calibrate the Furol viscometer using standard oil at
temperature of 50°C following the same steps as for testing the
sample.
10. Choose the test temperature using the following table:

Viscosity Standard Test Temperature: °C (°F)

Universal 21.1 (70), 37.8 (100), 54.4 (130), 60 (140),
82.2 (180), 98.9 (210)
Furol 25 (77), 37.8 (100), 50 (122), 60 (140), 82.2
(180), 98.9 (210)

11. After choosing the test temperature, control the temperature of

the bath to the required one.
12. Close the sample outlet tightly using the cork stopper.
13. Stir the sample and then strain it through the 150-µm-wire
cloth in the filter funnel directly into the viscometer until the
levels are above the flowing rim.

64
 14. Immerse the thermometer in the sample in its position in the
viscometer and stir well. Withdraw the thermometer.
15. Check the sample temperature while stirring. The temperature
must be within 0.03°C of the test temperature. Stirring in a
circular motion should continue until the required temperature
is reached.
16. Snap the cork stopper from the outlet and start the timer
simultaneously.
17. Stop the timer once the level of the oil reaches the calibration
mark.
Calculations:
Calculate the Saybolt viscosity at the specified temperature as follows:

Saybolt viscosity (Universal or Furol) at temperature (T)

= Time x Correction Factor (2)

Correction factor = Standard time / Measured time during calibration (3)

Comments:
20. Why are there different types of the Saybolt viscosity
(Universal and Furol)?
21. Use the results to obtain an estimate of the kinematic viscosity.
22. The ASTM states that viscosity measurements should not be
made at temperatures below the dew point of the room’s
atmosphere. Discuss this recommendation.

References:
ASTM D 88 - 81, “Standard Test Method for Saybolt Viscosity”.

65
 Experiment No. 10

AGGREGATE BLENDING TO MEET

SPECIFICATIONS

Definition:

Aggregates that are used in asphalt concrete mixes have to

have a certain gradation to achieve the desired
interlocking of the different aggregate sizes. Gradation
limits are usually selected to achieve maximum density
and desired void properties. Two or more aggregates of
different gradations are typically blended to meet the
specifications limits for the following reasons:
 It is unlikely that a single natural or quarried material will meet
these specifications.
 Aggregates are separated into sizes to improve handling
characteristics.
 Mixing of coarse and fine aggregate in one stockpile results in
segregation.
 It is often more economical to combine naturally occurring and
processed materials to meet specifications than to use all
processed materials.

Therefore, aggregates are separated into sizes, for example,

3/4 inch-3/8 inch (19 mm-9.5 mm), 3/8 inch-No. 4 (9.5
mm - 4.75 mm), and minus 4 (4.75 mm) prior to hauling
and stockpiling.

The nature of particle size distribution can be examined by

graphically representing the gradation by (a) a cumulative
percent passing on a semi-log scale, or (b) the
cumulative percent passing versus the sieve sizes raised

66
 to the 0.45 power. Both methods are commonly used by
engineers to help select the best aggregate blend.

A large number of blending methods (techniques of

determining relative proportions of various aggregates to
obtain a desired gradation) have been developed since
the suggestion of the maximum density curves by Fuller
and Thompson (15). The suitability of these methods
depends on the types of specification and number of
aggregates involved, the experience of the individual,
and the major emphasis of the blending (closeness to the
desired gradation or economics).

Regardless of the number of aggregates or blending

techniques selected, the basic formula expressing the
combination is

p = Aa + Bb + Cc + …….
(1)

where, p = the percent of material passing a given sieve for the

combined aggregates A, B, C,.....

A, B, C,... = the percent of material passing a given sieve for

each aggregate A, B, C,...

a, b, c,... = proportions (decimal fractions) of aggregates A, B, C,...

to be used in the blend, a+ b + c... = 1.00

67
 It is desirable, no matter which method is used, to first plot the
gradations of the aggregates to be blended and the
specification limits on a gradation chart before actual
blending is attempted. From these plots, decisions can
be made prior to any calculation depending on:
(a) whether a blend can be found using the available aggregates
to meet the specification limits,
(b) where the critical sieve sizes are, and
(c) the approximate trial proportions to be selected.

These decisions can be made based on the following simple

facts and the gradations shown in Figure 13-1:
1. The gradation curves for all possible combinations of
aggregates A and B fall between curves A and B. It is
impossible to blend aggregates C and B to meet the
specification regardless of the method used.
2. If two curves cross at any point (B and D), the grading curves
for all possible combinations pass through that point.
3. The curve for a blend containing more of aggregate A than B is
closer to curve A than B and vice versa.

Figure 13.1. Example of blending different aggregates to

meet gradation band.

68
 The most common method of determining the proportions
of aggregate to meet specification requirements is the
trial-and-error method. As the name implies, a trial
blend is selected (aided by experience and plots of
individual gradation curves and specification limits) and
calculations made using Equation 1 to determine the
percent passing each sieve size for the blend. The
grading that is calculated from this trial is compared with
the specification requirements. Adjustments are made for
the second trial blend and the calculations repeated for
the critical sieves until a satisfactory or optimum blend is
obtained.

The trial-and-error method involves the following steps:

1. Selecting critical sieves for the aggregates in the blend;
2. Determining an initial set of proportions a, b, c, etc.,
which will meet the specification requirements for the
critical sieves;
3. Checking the calculated blend using the proportions
determined for all sieves in the specification
requirements; and
4. Adjusting the proportions, as necessary, to ensure that
the percentages for all sieves are within specification
limits.

Example 13-1. Determine a blend of the two aggregates

shown in Table 13.1 which will meet the included
specification limits using trial-and-error method.

Table 13.1. Blending of Two Aggregates

Sieve Aggregate Specification Median of

69
 S Specif
i ication
z s
e A B

3/4" 100 100 100 100

1/2" 90 100 100 - 80 90

3/8" 59 100 90 - 70 80

#4 16 96 70 - 50 60

#8 3 82 50 - 35 43

# 30 0 51 29 - 18 24

# 50 0 36 23 - 13 18

# 100 0 21 16 - 8 12

# 200 0 9 10 - 4 7

Examination of the grading indicates that it is possible to find a

blend that falls within the specification limits, possibly a
50-50 blend because of the relative distance of the
curves to the center of the band (desired gradation). The
first trial blend can be determined more intelligently if
certain critical sieve sizes are selected. By inspecting the
gradations, it is seen that all material retained on the 3/8-
inch or 9.5 mm sieve (100 - 80 = 20 percent desired) has
to come from aggregate A, and all material finer than the
No.30 (0.6 mm) sieve must be furnished by aggregate B.
With regard to aggregate A, because 100 - 59 = 41
percent is retained on the 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) sieve from
A, the percentage needed from A to retain 20 percent on
this sieve (specification median) is A = 20/41 = 0.49; the
percentage of aggregate B will be 1 - 0.49 = 0.51. With
regard to aggregate B, because there is 51 percent

70
 passing the No.30 (0.6 mm), the percentage of aggregate
B required to arrive at the desired 24 percent passing this
sieve is B = 24/51 = 0.47; the percent of aggregate A for
this blend will be 1 - 0.47 = 0.53. Hence, analysis of the
two critical sieves produces very similar results.

Evaluation of one of the critical sieves shows that the percent

of aggregate A should be 49 percent and the other critical
sieve shows that A should be 53 percent. For the first trial
use 50 percent of aggregate A and 50 percent of
aggregate B.

A form that is easy to use is shown in Table 13.2. Multiply 0.50

times the percent passing each sieve size for aggregate
A and aggregate B. Add the two results to get the
gradation of the blend. The resulting gradation is
compared to the desired one and it appears that the use
of 50 percent A and 50 percent B results in a gradation
very close to the desired gradation.

Hence, for this example, the proportions should be 50 percent

A and 50 percent B. The percentage of these two
aggregates could be changed slightly, if desired, without
having an adverse effect on the blend. For instance, if
aggregate A costs more than aggregate B, the
percentages could be changed to slightly increase the
amount of aggregate B and decrease the amount of
aggregate A, thus reducing the overall cost of the mix.
The project specification will still be met but with a less
expensive mix.

71
 Table 13.2. Calculation for Blending Two Aggregates

Sieve Size
Percent
U
e s
#
e
5
d
3/4" 1/2" 3/8" #4 #8 # 30 0

Original 100 90 59 16 3 0 0

Original 100 100 100 96 82 51 36

100 70 23
- - -
90 - 50 - 29 -
8 7 5 3 1 1
on 100 0 0 0 5 8 3

100 90 80 60 43 24 18

50 50 45 29.5 8 1.5 0 0

50 50 50 50 48 41 25.5 18

100 95 79.5 56 42.5 25.5 18

OK OK OK OK OK OK OK

72
 Example 13.2. Given in Table 13.3 the gradation of aggregates
A, B, and C, determine the required percent of each to
result in a blend meeting the required specification
requirements.

Table 13.3. Blending of Three Aggregates

Sieve Aggregate
Median of
S
Specif
i Specification
ication
z
s
e A B C

1" 100 100 100 100 - 94 97

1/2" 63 100 100 85 - 70 78

#4 19 100 100 55 - 40 48

#8 8 93 100 42 - 30 36

# 30 5 55 100 30 - 20 25

# 100 3 36 97 22 - 12 17

# 200 2 3 88 11 - 5 8

The critical sieves in this case would be the No.4 (4.75 mm)
and No. 30 (0.6 mm). The No. 200 (75 m) sieve is also
critical since aggregate C has 88 percent passing the No.
200 (75 m) sieve and the specifications only allow up to
11 percent. The desired 52 percent of material larger
than the No. 4 (4.75 mm) sieve must come from
aggregate A. Hence, the percent of aggregate A to use
for the first trial should be:

73
 % of A = 52/81 = 64%

Now looking at the No.30 (0.6 mm) sieve it is apparent that 75

percent of the material larger than a No. 30 (0.6 mm)
sieve must come from materials A and B. Since 75
percent is the total desired to be retained on the No. 30
(0.6 mm) and 0.64(95) is that portion provided by
aggregate A.

% of B = 75 - 0.64 (95)

= 75 – 61

= 14

Based on these calculations, it appears that the best first

estimate would be 64 percent of aggregate A, 14 percent
of aggregate B, and 22 percent of aggregate C. It is
obvious, however, that using 22 percent of aggregate C
would produce too much material passing the No.200 (75
m) sieve. The percent of aggregate C should probably
be no more than 8 percent, since that aggregate alone
will produce approximately 7 percent passing the No. 200
(75 m) sieve. Based on this analysis, the first estimate
should be 71 percent of aggregate A, 21 percent of
aggregate B, and 8 percent of aggregate C. The
calculations are shown in Table 13-4.

74
 Table 13.4. Calculation for Blending Three Aggregates

Sieve Size
Percent
U
egate s
e
d
1" 1/2" #4 #8 # 30 # 100

Original 100 63 19 8 5 3

Original 100 100 100 93 55 36

C Original 100 100 100 100 100 97

100
-
22 -
9
cation 4 85 - 70 55 - 40 42 - 30 30 - 20

ian 97 78 48 36 25 17

71 71 44.73 13.49 5.68 3.55 2.13

21 21 21 21 19.53 11.55 7.56

C 8 8 8 8 8 8 7.76

nd 100 73.7 42.5 33.2 23.1 17.5

mark OK Improve Improve Improve Improve OK

66 66 41.58 12.54 5.28 3.3 1.98

28 28 28 28 26.04 15.4 10.08

C 6 6 6 6 6 6 5.82

nd 100 75.6 46.5 37.3 24.7 17.9

75
mark OK OK OK OK OK OK

The estimated percentages of 71 percent A, 21 percent B, and

8 percent C produce a blend that meets the specification
requirements.

However, the blend can be improved slightly to get it closer to

the desired gradation. To improve the blend, use 2
percent less of aggregate C and 5 percent less of
aggregate A and, hence, 7 percent more of aggregate B.
For each 1 percent that two aggregates are changed the
resulting blend will change by the difference between the
percent passing for any given sieve size for the two
aggregates times 1 percent. For instance, increasing
aggregate B by 5 percent and decreasing aggregate A by
5 percent will result in a change of (.81) 5 or 4.0 on the
No.4 sieve.

After making the calculations (Table 13-4) it can be seen that

the amount of each aggregate to use is 66 percent A, 28
percent B, and 6 percent C.

The computations required by the trial-and-error method shown

in the example were carried out manually to show the
steps. However, successive trials can be done easily and
quickly by using personal computers and electronic
spreadsheet software. If desired, the gradations of the
blends as well as the specification band can be plotted
and examined using the graphic capabilities of a typical

76
 personal computer.

There are several graphical methods that have been used to

determine the percent of each aggregate to use in a
blend. These methods are generally not used since the
trial-and-error method is quicker and easier in most
cases.

Requirement:
The Ministry of Public Works & Housing (MPW’s&H) has specified certain
gradation limits for both the Wearing and Binder Courses of the asphalt
concrete mixes in Jordan. Two gradation limits are specified for the
Wearing course for heavy traffic and medium and light traffic. In addition,
two extra gradation limits are specified for the Binder course for heavy
traffic and medium and light traffic. Table 13.5 shows the specified
gradation limits. A local company has four stock piles that they blend
together to achieve the required mixes. You are required to do the
following:
 Grade the supplied materials from the four stockpiles..
 Draw the required gradation envelope for the Heavy Traffic Wearing
Course mix.
 On the same figure, draw the gradation of the four stock piles.
 From the drawn figure, do you think that it is possible to achieve the
required gradation from blending the material from the four stock
piles, why?
 Find the required percentage from each stock to get a gradation in the
middle of the gradation envelope.
 Calculate the allowable tolerance on each sieve size.
 Discuss the obtained gradation and allowable tolerance.

Table 13.5 Recommended Gradations by MPW’s&H

77
 Sieve Heavy Traffic Medium & Light Traffic
Ap
O
p Binder Wearing Binder Wearing
Sieve Sieve
e C C C C
S S
n o o o o
i i
i u u u u
z z
n r r r r
e e
g s s s s
e e e e
(mm)

1" 25.4 1" 100 100 100 100 ±

19.05 70 – 70 –
1 1
3/4" 3/4" 90 – 100 90 – 100 ±
0 0
0 0

1/2" 12.7 1/2" 53 – 90 71 – 90 53 – 90 71 – 90 ±

3/8" 9.525 3/8" 40 – 80 56 – 80 40 – 80 56 – 80 ±

#4 4.75 #4 30 – 56 35 – 56 30 – 56 35 – 65 ±

#8 2.36 #8 23 – 38 23 – 38 23 – 49 23 – 49 ±

# 20 0.850 # 20 13 – 27 13 – 27 14 – 43 14 – 43 ±

# 50 0.300 # 50 5 – 17 5 – 17 5 – 19 5 – 19 ±

# 80 0.180 # 80 4 – 14 4 – 14 4 – 15 4 – 15 ±

# 200 0.075 # 200 2-8 2–8 2-8 2–8 ±

References:
National Center for Asphalt Technology, (1996), "Hot Mix Asphalt
Materials, Mixture Design and Construction", NAPA research and
Education Foundation, Maryland.

78
 Hashemite University

College of Engineering

Highway Engineering Lab

Blending of Aggregates
Sieve Analysis Worksheet

Operator: Job Site:

Date: Soil Description:

Sample
Number
Sieve Weight Cum. Weight Cum. %
Sieve % % %
Size Retained Retained Retained Retnd Passg.
No. Retained Passing Retnd.
(mm) (gm) % (gm) (%)

1”

¾”

½”

3/8”

#4

#8

#16

#50

#100

#200

Total

79
Sample
Number
Sieve Weight Cum. Weight Cum. %
Sieve % % %
Size Retained Retained Retained Retnd Passg.
No. Retained Passing Retnd.
(mm) (gm) % (gm) (%)

1”

¾”

½”

3/8”

#4

#8

#16

#50

#100

#200

Total

80
 Hashemite University

College of Engineering

Highway Engineering Lab

Aggregate Blending Worksheet

Sieve Size
Percent
U
s
e
d
1" 3/4" 1/2" 3/8" #4 #8 # 16 # 50

Original

Original

Original

Original

90 -
71 - 56 – 35 – 23 – 16- 5–
1
100 9 8 5 3 3
0
0 0 6 8 0
0

100 95.0 80.5 68.0 45.5 30.5 23.0 11.0

82
 Experiment No. 11

SPECIFIC GRAVITY OF COARSE AND

FINE AGGREGATE

Definition:

Specific gravity of an aggregate is the ratio of the weight of a unit volume of

the material to the weight of an equal volume of water at
approximately 23°C (73.4°F). The commonly used equation for
specific gravity is:

Specific gravity = (weight / volume) / unit weight of water

(1)

When working in the metric system the unit weight of water is 1.0 gram/ml.
Hence the equation for specific gravity becomes:

Specific gravity = weight/volume (2)

when the weight is in grams and the volume is in ml.

Significance of the Test

Specific gravity of aggregate is useful in:
5. Making weight-volume conversions.
6. Calculating the void content in a compacted HMA.

83
 Types of Specific Gravity
There are four different aggregate specific gravities used for HMA based on the method
used to define the volume of the aggregate particles:

1. Apparent specific gravity;

2. Bulk specific gravity;
3. Effective specific gravity; and 4. Bulk impregnated specific gravity.

Referring to Figure 14.1, the apparent specific gravity includes only the volume of the
aggregate particle; it does not include the volume of any pores or capillaries that become
filled with water after a 24-hour soaking.
The bulk specific gravity includes the overall volume of the aggregate particle, as well
as the volume of the pores that become filled with water after a 24-hour soaking. The
effective specific gravity includes the overall volume of the aggregate, plus the pores
that become filled with water after a 24-hour soaking, minus the volume of the larger
pores that absorb asphalt. The effective specific gravity can be calculated from the
theoretical maximum specific gravity (Rice specific gravity) using ASTM D2041.

84
 V
V
Vp a
p
pp
p

V V
s a
p

Ws = Oven-dry weight of solids

w= Unit weight of water = 1gm/cm3

Vs = Volume of solids

Vpp = Volume of water permeable pores

Vap = Volume of pores absorbing asphalt

Figure 14.1:VRelationship between

pp - Vap = Volume thepermeable
of water Differentpores
Specific
not
Gravities of an asphalt
absorbing Aggregate Particle
When the aggregateApparent
absorption is zero,
specific gravityall three
= Gsa types
= Ws of* aggregate
/ (Vs w)
specific gravity are
theoretically equal. Bulk
The specific
bulk and apparent
gravity = Gsbspecific gravities
= Ws / ((Vs * coarse
+ Vpp)of w) and fine aggregates
Effective
can be determined by ASTMspecific
C127 gravity = Gserespectively.
and C128, = Ws / ((Vs + Vpp -
Vap) * w)

Specific Gravity and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate

A summary of the test procedure is:
 Approximately 5 kg of thoroughly washed aggregate retained on a No.4 (4.75 mm)
sieve is oven dried to a constant weight.
 The dried sample is then immersed in water for 24 hours.
 The aggregate is removed from the water, drained, and surface dried until all
visible films of water are removed. The surfaces will still appear damp.
 The weight of the sample in the surface dry condition is then obtained and
recorded as B.
 The saturated surface dry sample is placed in a wire basket, submerged in water,
and the submerged weight determined and recorded as C.
 The sample is then removed from the Water, drained and placed in an Oven and
dried to a constant weight.
 The oven dried weight is recorded as A.

The specific gravity and absorption are calculated as follows:

85
 Apparent specific gravity = Gsa = A / (A-C) (3)

Bulk specific gravity, = Gsb = A / (B-C) (4)

Absorption, % = (B-A) * 100 / A (5)

where, A= oven dried weight of aggregate, g;

B= saturated surface dry (SSD) weight of aggregate, g; and
C= submerged weight of aggregate in water, g.

Specific Gravity and Absorption of Fine Aggregate

The procedure is briefly outlined as:
 The flask (pycnometer) to be used to measure specific gravity is filled with water
and the weight recorded as B.
 Approximately 1,000 g of fine aggregate is oven dried to a constant weight.
 The dried sample is then immersed in water for 24 hours.
 The fine aggregate is spread on a clean flat surface and exposed to a gently moving
current of warm air until a saturated surface dry condition is achieved.
A saturated surface-dry condition is reached at the moisture content at which the
lightly compacted material (by 25 light drops of the tamper) in a cone first slumps
when the cone is removed.
 Approximately a 500 g sample of the saturated surface dry material is placed in the
flask and the actual weight of the sample recorded as D.
 The flask is then filled with water, using a specified procedure, and the weight
recorded as C.
 The fine aggregate is removed from the flask, oven-dried to a constant weight, and
the weight recorded as A.

The specific gravity and absorption are calculated as follows:

Apparent specific gravity = Gsa = A / (B+A-C) (6)

Bulk specific gravity, = Gsb = A / (B+D-C) (7)

86
 Absorption, % = (D-A) * 100 / A (8)

where, A= oven dried weight of sample, g;

B= weight of flask (pycnometer) filled with water, g;
C= weight of flask (pycnometer) with specimen and water to calibration mark, g;
and
D = saturated surface dry weight of sample (500 ± 10 grams).

To get the specific gravity of an aggregate mix consisting from a number of aggregate
fractions with different specific gravities, use the following equation:
P1  P2  .....  Pn
G (9)
P1 P2 P
  .....  n
G1 G 2 Gn

where, G = average specific gravity;

G1, G2, ….. Gn = specific gravity values for fraction 1, 2, ….., n; and
P1, P2, ….. Pn = weght percentages of fraction 1, 2, ….., n.

Requirement:
1. Find the Apparent, and the Bulk specific gravities, and Absorption
of both coarse and fine aggregates.
2. Following the recommended gradation by Ministry of Public Works
& Housing (MPW’s&H) for wearing course for heavy traffic, find the
following:
a. Required weights from the different aggregate sizes to make
five kilograms coarse aggregate (Retained on sieve # 4).
b. Required weights from the different aggregate sizes to make
one kilograms fine aggregate (Passing sieve # 4).
c. Combined Apparent, and the Bulk specific gravities of the
aggregate.

87
References:
ASTM C127-88, (2000), “Standard Test Method for Specific Gravity and Absorption of
Coarse Aggregate”.
ASTM C128-97, (2000), “Standard Test Method for Specific Gravity and Absorption of
Fine Aggregate”.
National Center for Asphalt Technology, (1996), "Hot Mix Asphalt Materials, Mixture
Design and Construction", NAPA research and Education Foundation, Maryland.

88
 Experiment No. 12
F.

MARSHALL MIX DESIGN PROCEDURE

Introduction

Asphalt pavements are composed of aggregates as a filler, asphalt cement

as a binder, and air voids that fill the spaces in the asphalt mixture.
Three groups of aggregates are usually used in asphalt concrete mix
design. These are coarse aggregate, fine aggregate, and mineral
filler.

A successful flexible pavement must have several desirable properties.

These are stability, durability, safety (skid-resistance) and being the
most economical mix. Because of the binding property of the asphalt
cement, it is the most important constituent in the asphalt concrete
mix. Quality control of asphalt cement is always required and
essential for a successful mix. Some of these quality control tests are
penetration, softening point, ductility, flash point, thin-film oven test,
solubility, viscosity and others. Asphalt content is a very important
factor in the mix design and has an effect on all the characteristics of
a successful pavement. That is why all various mix design
procedures are intended to provide a means for selecting the
"optimum" asphalt content.

Among the various mix design procedures, Marshall Mix design method is
the most popular one because the equipment needed for the method
is relatively simple and inexpensive.

Part I - SAMPLE PREPARATION

89
 Introduction

In this experiment, students will prepare different asphalt concrete mixes by

varying the asphalt content in each mix in accordance with the
Marshall method of mix design. These specimens will be tested to
obtain the optimum asphalt content by performing the Marshall test
for stability and flow, bulk specific gravity and unit weight, theoretical
maximum specific gravity and air voids percentage in total mix.

Material and Equipment

1. Asphalt, course aggregate, fine aggregate, and mineral filler.
2. Sieve analysis equipment.
3. Pans and mixing molds.
4. Spatula; balance; oven & hot plate.
5. Mixing bowel and mixer (Figure 15.1).

90

Figure 15.1: Compaction pedestal and compaction hammer

 Preparation Procedure
a) The aggregates to be used are dried to constant weight and sieved into the
following size fractions: 1" (passing), 3/4", 1/2", 3/8", #4, #8, #30, #50,
#100, #200.
b) Blend sufficient aggregate to produce three, 2.5” height, specimens at each
asphalt content. Usually five different asphalt contents are used in the mix
design. Around 1150 gm of aggregate are sufficient to produce one
Marshall Sample. Additional three samples are required for the
determination of theoretical maximum specific gravity. A minimum of 2000
gm per sample are required for theoretical maximum specific gravity
samples.

Blending of the aggregate should be according to the road type and layer
position (either wearing or binder course). In this experiment we will make
the mix design for a heavy trafficked wearing course layer. Therefore, the
blending of the aggregates should be according to the following
proportions:

Sieve %
1” 100
3/4" S 95 P
1/2" i 80.5 a
3/8" 68
#4 z 45.5 s
#8 30.5
#16 e 23 s
#50 11 i
#100 8.5
#200 5 n
c) Determine the ranges of mixing and compaction temperatures from the
g
temperature-viscosity plot:

 Mixing temperature should be selected to provide a viscosity of 170 ±

20 centistokes.

91
  Compaction temperature should be selected to provide a viscosity of
280 ± 30 centistokes.

d) Heat enough asphalt, at the obtained mixing temperature, to prepare a total

of 18 specimens. Three specimens should be prepared at each of the
selected five different asphalt contents. Asphalt contents should be
selected at 0.5 percent increments with at least two asphalt contents above
“optimum” and at least two below “optimum”. Additional three loose mixture
specimens should be prepared near the optimum asphalt content for
determining theoretical maximum specific gravity.

e) Heat the aggregate to a temperature 10°C above the mixing temperature

(from c above).

f) Place the aggregate in the mixing bowl and add the required amount of the
asphalt cement and mix the aggregate and asphalt quickly and thoroughly.
As stated above, five different asphalt cement percentages by weight of the
mix are proposed:

Weight of
Asphalt Cement No. of Asphalt
Spe to be
Percent by
weight of cim Added
ens per
mix
Sample

4.0 3 48.0

4.5 3
54.3

5.0 3 60.6

6.0 3 67.0

6.5 3
73.5

g) Clean and heat the molds and hammer to be between 100 and 150°C.
Place a piece of filter paper in the bottom of the mold.

92
 h) Place half of the required amount of the mix in the mold and spade
the mixture vigorously with a heated spatula 15 times around the perimeter
and 10 times over the interior. Place the second half of the batch in the
mold and repeat the foregoing procedure. Remove the collar and smooth
the surface of the mix with a trowel to a slightly rounded shape. Place a
piece of filter paper.
i) Replace the collar and place the mold assembly on the compaction
pedestal. Apply 75 blows of the 10 Ib hammer, falling freely a distance of
18”. Remove the mold and turn it over and apply the same number of blows
to the other side.
j) Remove the two filter papers and leave the sample to cool down then
extrude the sample.

Part II - SAMPLE TESTING

Introduction
In this experiment, the students will carry out the following tests and analysis on the
samples prepared in Part I of this experiment:
A. Bulk specific gravity determination (ASTM D 2726).
B. Stability and flow test.
C. Theoretical maximum specific gravity determination (ASTM D 2041).
D. Density & voids analysis.

Apparatus and Equipment

a) Marshall testing machine with sample
holding mould (Figure 15.2).
b) Water bath for heating the Marshall samples.
c) Balance with specific gravity frame.
d) Large size pycnometer with vibrator.
e) Vacuum pump.
Figure 15.2: Marshall testing machine with sample holding
mould
93
A. Bulk Specific Gravity Determination:
This test is performed according to ASTM D 2726 test procedure as follows:
(a) Measure the height or thickness of the specimen and take its weight in air.
Designate this as A.
(b) Immerse the specimen in a water bath at 25°C for 3 min to 5 min and then weigh
in water. Designate this weight as C.
(c) Surface dry the specimen by blotting quickly with a towel and then weigh in air.
Designate this weight as B.
(d) Record the weights A, B & C for each sample in Worksheet # 1. Calculate the
Bulk specific gravity of the compacted specimens as follows:
Bulk specific gravity = A/(B – C) (1)
where, A = mass of the dry specimen in air, g,
B = mass of the saturated surface-dry specimen in air, g, and
C = mass of the specimen in water, g.

B. Stability & Flow Test:

(a) Immerse the specimen in the water bath at 60°C ± 1°C for 30-40 minutes before
test.
(b) Thoroughly clean the inside surfaces of the testing ring. Ensure that the dial
indicator in the proving ring is securely fixed and is zeroed for the no-load
position.
(c) Remove the specimen from the water bath, dry the surfaces and place the sample in
the lower half of the testing ring. Fit the upper testing head into position and center
the complete assembly in the loading device.
(d) Place the flow meter over one of the guide rods and initialize it.
(e) Apply load to the specimen, at a constant rate of deformation, 1 in. per min, until
failure occurs. The maximum load required to produce failure, in kN at 60°C is
recorded as the Marshall Stability value.
(f) The reading on the flow meter at the point of maximum load is recorded as the
flow value of the specimen, expressed in mm.

94
Note: The entire procedure from removal from the water bath to failure of the specimen
should not take longer than 30 secs.
(g) Data obtained should be recorded in Worksheet # 1.

C. Theoretical Maximum Specific Gravity:

Determine the theoretical maximum specific gravity by ASTM method D2041. The test
is performed on the loose mixed sample prepared in Part I of this experiment.
a- Separate the particles of the sample, taking care not to fracture the mineral
particles, cool the sample to room temperature, place in a container and get the
net weight of the sample. Designate the net weight of the sample as A.
b- Fill the large-size pycnometer (Type E) with water. Put the transparent
cover in place and fill the pycnometer with water till it gets completely full upto
the brim. Care should be taken to release any air bubbles entrapped by jarring
the side of pycnometer. The outside of the pycnometer is then wiped dry. The
filled pycnometer is then weighed. Designate this weight as D.
c- Put the asphalt concrete mix sample in the pycnometer and add sufficient
water at room temperature (25°C) to cover the sample.
d- Remove entrapped air by subjecting the contents to an increasing vacuum
until the residual pressure manometer reads 30 mm Hg or less. Maintain this
residual pressure for 5 to 15 min. While vacuuming, agitate the container and
contents either continuously by mechanical device or manually by vigorous
shaking at intervals of about 2 min. At the end of the interval, gradually release
the vacuum.
e- For any given mix, optimum time of vacuum application or agitation may
be established by trials or by experience. Lean mixes required less and rich
mixes may require more time or agitation. In general, the minimum time
required to dispel all the free air is 10 min.
f- Immediately after removal of entrapped air, fill the pycnometer with water
and dry the outside using towel. Determine the mass of the container (and
contents) and designate this weight E.

95
 g- Calculate the theoretical maximum specific gravity of the sample (@ 5%
AC) as follows:

Theo. Max. Sp. Gravity (Gmm) = A / (A + D – E) (2)

where, A = mass of oven dry sample in air, g,

D = mass of container filled with water at 25°C (77°F), g,
and
E = mass of container filled with sample and water at 25°C, g.

D. Density & Voids analysis:

Definitions
Air voids: the pockets of air between the bitumen-coated aggregate particles in a
compacted bituminous paving mixture.
Dense bituminous paving mixtures: bituminous paving mixtures in which the air voids are
less than 10% after compaction.
After the completion of the stability and flow tests, bulk specific gravity, and theoretical
maximum specific gravity, determine the average unit weight or density for each asphalt
content by multiplying the average bulk specific gravity value by 62.4 Ib/ft3 or 1000
kg/m3. Then determine the % Air voids for each mix using the following formulas:
1) Based on the maximum specific gravity, Gmm, value at optimum asphalt
content determined by the experiment, calculate the effective specific gravity (Gse)
of aggregate. Then using Gse, find out Gmm values at the different asphalt
contents with the help of the following formulas:

Pmm  Pb
Gse  & (3)
Pmm Pb

Gmm Gb
Pmm
Gmm  (4)
Ps Pb

Gse Gb

where, Gse = effective sp. gravity of aggregate,

Gmm = maximum theoretical sp. gravity at a particular asphalt content,

96
 Pmm = 100% (Total loose mixture),
Ps = % aggregate by total weight of mixture,
Pb = % asphalt by total weight of mixture, and
Gb = sp. gravity of asphalt.
2) The percent air voids in a compacted bituminous paving mixture is
calculated as follows:
Percent air voids (AV)
Bulk Sp.Gravity
= [1 - ] * 100 (5)
Theoritical Max. Sp. Gravity

3) Calculate Volume of asphalt and Voids Filled with asphalt at each asphalt
content as follows:
% AC  Gmb
Volume of asphalt (Vb) = (6)
Gb
Voids Filled with Asphalt (VFA) = [Vb / (Vb + AV) ] * 100 (7)

4) Calculate Voids in Mineral Aggregate (VMA) at each asphalt content and

check your calculated values of VFA from the following equations:
Gmb (1  Pb)
Voids in Mineral Aggregate (VMA) = 100 [1 - ] (8)
Gsb
VMA AV
Voids Filled with Asphalt (VFA) = [ ] * 100 (9)
VMA

Part III. REPORT AND DISCUSSION

a) Determine unit weight (density), stability & flow and % air voids for each asphalt
percentage.
b) Plot unit weight versus asphalt content.
c) Plot Marshall Stability versus asphalt content.
d) Plot flow versus asphalt content.
e) Plot air voids (AV) versus asphalt content.
f) Plot voids-filled with asphalt (VFA) versus asphalt content.
g) Plot voids in mineral aggregate (VMA) versus asphalt content.

97
 h) Determine the optimum asphalt content from air void curve, which yield 4% AV.
At the corresponding asphalt content check the following:
i. Marshal Stability;
ii. Flow;
iii. Voids in Mineral Aggregate (VMA); and
iv. Voids Filled with Asphalt (VFA).
i) Compare the corresponding values with the recommended limits from Ministry of
Public Works & Housing. If corresponding values outside recommended limits,
reselect optimum asphalt content and check corresponding values.
j) Determine the optimum asphalt content from curves, which yield the following:
(1) Maximum stability.
(2) Maximum unit weight.
(3) Median of limits for percent air voids.
k) Compare the recommended optimum asphalt content from i & j above.

Basic Data for Sample Preparation of Paving Mixture

Worksheet # 1. Aggregate Gradation for Wearing Course Mix

Sieve Size % Passing % Retained Wt. Retained, Cumulative Retained Wt.,

gm gm
1" 100 - - 0
3/4" 95 5 58 58
1/2" 80.5 14.5 167 225
3/8" 68 12.5 144 369
#4 45.5 22.5 259 628
#8 30.5 15 173 801
# 16 23 7.5 86 887
#50 11 12 138 1025
#100 8.5 2.5 29 1054
#200 5 3.5 40 1094
Pan - 5 58 1152
Total 1152 gm

Worksheet # 2. Weight of Added Asphalt for each Asphalt Percentage:

98
 AC %
Wt. Of added Asphalt (based on wt. Of total mix) = 1152
1  AC %

%AC Wt. Of Asphalt (gm)

4.0 48.0
4.5 54.3
5.0 60.6
5.5 67.0
6.0 73.5

Specific Gravity of Asphalt (Gb) == 1.022

99
 Worksheet # 3 Marshall Stability Testing Sheet

Weight Weight SSD Specimen Bulk SP. Density

AC, Flow Stability
in air in water Weight Height GR. (Gmb) (Unit Wt.)
percent (mm) (kg)
(A) (C) (B) (mm) A Kg/mt3
B C

4.0

4.5

5.0

5.5

6.0

Worksheet # 4 Theoretical Maximum Specific Gravity Testing Sheet

Wt. of Wt. Of Wt. of Theo. Max. Air Voids in Total Mix,

A.C.
Mix in Pycnometer Pycnometer + Specific Gravity (%)
Percent
Air Plus Water Water + Sample A Gmb
(%) [1  ] 100
(A) (D) (E) A D  E Gmm
4,0

4.5

5.0

5.5

6.0

100
101
 MPW’s & H Mix Design Specifications

Approved
To
ler
an
Property Heavy Traffic Medium & Light Traffic ce
fro
m
JM
F

Binder Wearing Binder Wearing

Sieve C C C C
S o o o o
i u u u u
z r r r r
e s s s s
e e e e

1" 100 100 100 100 ± 5.0%

70 – 90 – 90 –
1 1 1
3/4" 70 – 100 ± 5.0%
0 0 0
0 0 0

53 – 71 –
1/2" 9 71 – 90 53 – 90 9 ± 5.0%
0 0

40 – 56 –
3/8" 8 56 – 80 40 – 80 8 ± 5.0%
0 0

30 – 35 –
#4 5 35 – 56 30 – 56 6 ± 4.0%
6 5

23 – 23 –
#8 3 23 – 38 23 – 49 4 ± 4.0%
8 9

13 – 14 –
# 20 2 13 – 27 14 – 43 4 ± 4.0%
7 3

102
 # 50 5 – 17 5 – 17 5 – 19 5 – 19 ± 4.0%

# 80 4 – 14 4 – 14 4 – 15 4 – 15 ± 4.0%

# 200 2-8 2-8 2-8 2–8 ± 1.5%

Bitumen
Con ± 0.3%
tent

900 1000 900

Marshal 800
( ( (
Sta (
m m m
bilit m
i i i
y in
n n n
(kg) )
) ) )

Flow (mm) 2 – 3.5 2 – 3.5 2-4 2–4

13 14 14
( ( (
m m m
VMA 13 (min)
i i i
n n n
) ) )

Air Voids
4-7 4-6 3-5 3-5
(%)

500 500 500

500
Stiffness ( ( (
(
(kg/ m m m
m
mm i i i
in
) n n n
)
) ) )

25 25 25
Loss of
( ( (
Sta
m m m
bilit 25 (max)
a a a
y
x x x
(%)
) ) )

103
References:
ASTM D70-97, (2000), “Standard Test Method for Density of Semi-Solid Bituminous
Materials (Pycnometer Method)”.
ASTM D2726-96, (2000) “Standard Test Method for Bulk Specific Gravity and Density
of Non-Absorptive Compacted Bituminous Mixtures”.
ASTM D1559-89, (Discontinued 1998), “Test Method for Resistance of Plastic Flow of
Bituminous Mixtures Using Marshall Apparatus”.
ASTM D2041-95, (2000), “Standard Test Method for Theoretical Maximum Specific
Gravity and Density of Bituminous Paving Mixtures”.

104
 Experiment No. 13
.

ASPHALT EXTRACTION

Introduction

Asphalt Content is mixture property that must be evaluated in asphalt

concrete mixtures. The asphalt content of a mixture is very important
to ensure satisfactory performance. A mixture with low asphalt
content is not durable, and one with high asphalt content is not
stable. The actual asphalt content directly affects mixture properties,
such as asphalt film thickness, voids, stability, and Marshall Flow.
Therefore, It is important to monitor asphalt content, because it really
affects mixture properties that need to be controlled.

Asphalt extraction test is used to quantify the quantity of used asphalt in the
asphalt concrete mixtures. Obtained aggregates from this test can
be used for gradation analysis to check quality of the produced
mixes.

Summary of Test Method

The extraction test involves adding a solvent to the asphalt mixture to

dissolve the asphalt cement. Then the asphalt concrete and solvent
are centrifuged to assure that all the asphalt is dissolved leaving a
clean aggregate. This test is not a highly accurate test but it is widely
used for measuring asphalt content. One advantage of the extraction
test is that it allows determination of the aggregate gradation of the
mixture. A disadvantage of the extraction test is that the solvent used
is hazardous and is difficult to dispose.

The National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) has developed a test
method to determine the asphalt content of the HMA mixtures by
ignition. In the NCAT ignition method, a sample of HMA mixture is
subjected to an elevated temperature of 538°C (1000°F) in a furnace
to ignite and burn the asphalt content from the aggregate. NCAT's
work has resulted in a test procedure and equipment: that
automatically measures the asphalt content in 30-40 minutes. The

105
grading of the aggregate can then be determined using standard
sieve analysis. Accuracy and precision of the NCAT ignition test were
found to be better than those of the solvent extraction method.
Therefore, this test: method is increasingly replacing solvent
extraction methods. NCAT oven has to be calibrated to find if there
will be a loss in the weight of the aggregate due to the ignition
temperature, and to find percentage of weight loss if any.

106
 Apparatus and Equipment:
1- Oven, capable of maintaining the temperature at 110°C.
2- Pan
3- Balance.t
4- Hot Plate, electric, 700-W.
5- Small-Mouth Graduate, 1000 or 2000-mL capacity.
6- Optional small-mouth graduate, 100-mL capacity.
7- Ignition Dish, 125-mL capacity.
8- Desiccator.
9- Analytical Balance.
10- ).
11- Container for catching the solvent.
12- Filter Rings.
13- Solvent.

Figure 16.1: NCAT ignition oven Figure 16.2: Centrifuge Extraction Apparatus

107
 Test Procedure

The extraction test will be performed using centrifuge and NCAT extraction
methods.
a) Centrifuge Extraction Procedure:

The recommended test procedure for the centrifuge extraction test is as

follows:
1- If the mixture is not sufficiently soft to separate with a spatula or trowel,
place it in a large, flat pan and warm to 110°C, only until it can be handled
or mixed.
2- Dry the empty centrifuge bowl with the filter paper to a constant weight, and
record this weight in the data sheet.
3- Dry the test sample at 110°C to remove the moisture from it.
4- Place a sample (650-2500 g) of the asphalt concrete mixture into the bowl
of the centrifuge apparatus. Record this weight as W1.
5- Cover the test sample with trichloroethylene, trichloroethane, methylene
chloride, or diesel and allow sufficient time for the solvent to disintegrate
the test portion (not over 1 h).
6- Fit the filter paper on the bowl, clamp the cover on the bowl tightly and
place a beaker under the drain to collect the extract.
7- Start the centrifuge revolving slowly and gradually increase the speed to a
maximum of 3600 rpm or until solvent ceases to flow from the drain pipe.
8- Stop the machine, add 200 ml of the solvent, and repeat the centrifuge
procedure.
9- Repeat Step # 8 sufficient times (not less than three) so that the extract has
a light color.
10- Collect the extract and the washings in a suitable graduated cylinder.
11- Dry the bowl with the filter paper to a constant weight in an oven at
110 + 5°C.
12- Weight the dried aggregate and the filter paper. Designate the weight
of the aggregate with the increase in the weight of the filter paper as W2.
13- Determine the amount of mineral matter in the extract using the
following procedure:
a. Record the volume of the total extract (from Step 8) in the graduated
cylinder. Designate this volume as V1.
b. Agitate the extract thoroughly and immediately take a representative
sample (between 300-500ml) from the extract. Designate this volume
as V2.
c. Place the selected extract into a previously tared and calibrated flask.
d. Place the flask in a controlled-temperature bath controlled to ±0.1°C,
and allow to come to the temperature at which the flask was
calibrated.

108
e. Fill the flask with solvent which has been kept at the same
temperature. Bring the level of the liquid in the flask up to the neck,
insert the stopper, making sure the liquid overflows the capillary, and
remove from the bath.
f. Wipe the flask dry, determine the mass to the nearest 0.1 g, and
record this mass as the mass of flask plus extract.

109
Calculations:

Calculate the volume of asphalt and fines in the extract as follows:

( M 1  M 2) V 1
V 4  (V 3  )* (1)
G1 V2

where, V1 = Total volume of the extract, ml,

V2 = volume of the selected sample from the extract,

V3 = volume of the flask,

V4 = volume of asphalt and fines in the extract,

M1 = mass of the contents of the flask,

M2 = mass of the asphalt and fines in the extract = mass of the

total sample minus the mass of the extracted aggregate
= W1-W2, and

G1 = specific gravity of the solvent determined to the nearest

0.001.

Calculate the mass of fines in the extract as follows:

W3 = K (M2 - G3 * V4) (2)

where, W3 = mass of fines in the extract,

G2 = specific gravity of fines as determined in accordance with

Experiment 12,

G3 = specific gravity of asphalt as determined in accordance

110
 with Experiment 11, and

K = G2 / (G2 - G3),

Calculate the percent bitumen in the test portion as follows:

W 1 W 2 W 3
Bitumen Content, AC% = ( ) *100 (3)
W1

where, W1 = original mass of test sample,

W2 = mass of the extracted aggregate, and

W3 = mass of fines in the extract,

Calculate the standard deviation and the coefficient of variation and then
comment on the acceptance of the results according to the following stated
allowable variability:

Acceptable
Standard
Range of
Precision Deviat
Two Test
ion
Results

Single-operator 0.21 0.59

precision

Multilaboratory 0.22 0.62

precision

b) NCAT Extraction Procedure:

111
 1- If the mixture is not sufficiently soft to separate with a spatula or trowel,
place it in a large, flat pan and warm to 110°C) only until it can be handled
or mixed.
2- Split or quarter the material until the mass of material (around 3 kg)
required for test is obtained.
3- Dry the test sample at 110°C to remove the moisture from it.
4- Weight the sample and record this weight as, W4.
5- Spread the sample on the ignition tray.
6- Leave the sample inside the oven for 30-40 min.
7- At the end of the ignition time, take the sample out of the oven and leave it
to cool down.
8- Take the weight of the ignited sample and record it as W5.
9- Calculate the bitumen content as:

W 4 W 5
Bitumen Content, AC% = ( ) *100 (4)
W5

9- Sieve analysis can be performed on the obtained sample.

Comments:
23. Determine the bitumen content of the asphalt concrete mixture.
24. Determine the gradation of the aggregate.
25. Compare the results of Centrifuge and NCAT extraction methods.

References:
ASTM D2172-95, (2000), “Standard Test Method for Quantitative Extraction of Bitumen
From Bituminous Paving Mixtures”.

112
 Hashemite University

College of Engineering

Highway Engineering Lab

Asphalt Extraction by Centrifuge method

Operator: Job Site:

Date: Sample Description:

1) Weight of the empty bowl with the filter

paper
2) Weight of bowl + filter paper + test sample
3) Weight of test sample, W1 = (2 – 1)
4) Weight of bowl + filter paper + test sample
after centrifuging and drying
5) Weight of dry aggregate, W2 = (4 – 1)
6) Total volume of extract, V1
7) Volume of the selected sample from the
extract, V2
Calculation of the solvent density
8) Weight of empty flask with stopper
9) Weight of flask + stopper + solvent
10) Weight of solvent, = (9 – 8)
11) Volume of flask, V3
12) Specific gravity of solvent, G1, = 10/11
13) Weight of flask + stopper + solvent +
extract
14) Weight of solvent + extract, M1, = (13 – 8)

113
15) Volume of asphalt and fines in the extract,
V4,
(14  (3  5) 6
V 4  (11  )*
12 7

16) Specific gravity of fines, G2

17) Specific gravity of asphalt, G3
18) K = 16 / (16 – 17)
19) Weight of fines in the extract, W3,
W3 = 18 (3 – 5- (17 *15)
3  5 19
20) Bitumen Content, AC%, ( 100 )
3

114
 Hashemite University

College of Engineering

Highway Engineering Lab

Asphalt Extraction by NCAT Ignition Oven method

Operator: Job Site:

Date: Sample Description:

1) Weight of empty container

2) Weight of container + test sample

3) Weight of test sample, W4 = (2 – 1)

4) Weight of container + test sample after
ignition
5) Weight of dry aggregate, W5 = (4 – 1)

3 5
6) Bitumen Content, AC%, ( 100 )
5

115
 Experiment No. 14

SKID RESISTANCE
Definition:

The highway surface should have some sort of roughness to facilitate

friction between the car wheel and pavement surface. Skid resistance
is a measure of the resistance of the pavement surface to sliding or
skidding of the vehicle. It is a relationship between the vertical force
and the horizontal force developed as a tire slides along the
pavement surface. Therefore, the texture of the pavement surface
and its ability to resist the polishing effect of traffic is of prime
importance in providing skidding resistance.

Polishing of the aggregate is the reduction in micro texture, resulting in the

smoothing and rounding of exposed aggregates. This process is
caused by particle wear on a microscopic scale and is difficult to
quantify. Low-speed friction measurements, such as the British
Portable Friction Tester, have been used in an attempt to quantify
polishing.

Significance of the Test

In this experiment the will be used to evaluate the skid resistance of a pavement surface.
This test method is used to evaluate the highway surface frictional properties. Such
measurements are, of course, made with the surface wetted, but the rubber shoe of the
pendulum tester displaces enough water so that the hydrodynamic effects (which influence
friction at higher speeds and which are controlled by the coarser features of the surface)
are practically absent. The rubber responds essentially only to microtexture.

116

Figure 17.1: British Pendulum Tester

The tester is a dynamic pendulum impact type tester which is based on the energy loss
occurring when a rubber slider edge is propelled across a test surface. The apparatus may
be used for both laboratory and field tests on flat surfaces, and also for polished stone
value measurements on curved laboratory specimens from accelerated polishing wheel
tests. The values measured are referred to as British Pendulum (tester) numbers (BPN) for
flat surfaces, and polished stone values (PSV) for specimens subjected to accelerated
polishing.

Apparatus and Equipment:

1. British Pendulum tester (Figure 17.1).
2. Slider bonded with a 6mm by 25m by 75mm rubber strip for testing flat
surfaces.
3. Contact path gauge (thin ruler).
4. Water container.
5. Brush.
6. Thermometer.

Test Preparation:
1. Field test surfaces shall be brushed and flushed with clean water.
2. Level the instrument accurately by turning leveling screws until the bubble
is centered in the spirit level.
3. Raise pendulum mechanism by loosening locking knob (directly behind
pendulum pivot) and turn either of pair of head movement knobs at center of
tester to allow slider to swing free of test surface. Tighten locking knob
firmly.
4. Place pendulum in release position and rotate the drag pointer counter
clockwise until it comes to rest against adjustment screw on pendulum arm.
5. Release pendulum and note pointer reading. If reading is not zero, loosen
locking ring and rotate friction ring on bearing spindle slightly and lock
again.
6. Repeat test and adjust friction ring until the pendulum swing carries pointer
to zero.
7. Place spacer under adjusting screw of lifting handle.
8. Lower pendulum so edge of slider just touches surface.
9. Lock pendulum head firmly, raise lifting handle, and remove spacer.
10. Raise slider by lifting handle, move pendulum to the right of the lower
slider, and allow pendulum to move slowly to left until edge of slider
touches surface.
11. Place the contact path gauge beside slider and parallel to direction of swing
to verify length of contact path.

117
 12. Raise slider, using lifting handle, and move pendulum to left, then slowly
lower until slider edge again comes to rest on surface. If the length of the
contact path is not between 124 and 127 mm on flat test specimens
measured from trailing edge to trailing edge of the rubber slide, adjust by
raising or lowering instrument with the front leveling screws. Readjust level
of instrument if necessary.
13. Place pendulum in release position and rotate the drag pointer counter-
clockwise until it comes to rest against adjustment screw on pendulum arm.

Test Procedure:
1. Apply sufficient water to cover the test area thoroughly.
2. Execute one swing, but do not record reading.
3. Always catch the pendulum during the early portion of its return swing.
While returning the pendulum to its starting position, raise the slider with its
lifting handle to prevent contact between the slider and the test surface and
return the pendulum and the pointer to their starting position.
4. Immediately, make four more swings, rewetting the test area each time and
record the results. After each drop repeat Step 4.
5. Recheck the slide contact length on completion of the test.

Report:
1. Record the British Pendulum tester Number (BPN) as the average of the four test
values.
2. Type, age, condition, texture and location of test surface.
3. Temperature of test surface.
4. Comment on the texture of the test surface.

References:
ASTM E 303 – 93 (Reapproved 1998) , (2000), “Standard Test Method for Measuring
Surface Frictional Properties Using the British Pendulum Tester”.

118
 Hashemite University

College of Engineering

Highway Engineering Lab

British Pendulum Test Worksheet

Operator: Job Site:

Date: Surface Condition:

Surface Age Surface Temperature

British Pendulum Number (BPN) 1st Reading

British Pendulum Number (BPN) 2nd Reading

British Pendulum Number (BPN) 3rd Reading

British Pendulum Number (BPN) 4th Reading

Average British Pendulum Number (BPN)

Comments:

119