AL ZAYTOONA UNIVERSITY OF JORDAN

Faculty of Engineering and Technology

Civil and Infrastructure Engineering
"‫" الجودة والتميز‬
"Quality and Excellence

ABET- EAC

Pavement and Highway Laboratory Manual

(0908548)

Fall, 2018-2019

Instructor’s Signature

Dr. Akram S. Suleiman Eng. Mustafa Quteishat Eng. Mahmoud Azzam

Content
SUBJECT P AG E

COURSE SYLLABUS 3

Laboratory Report 5

Grading of the report will be as follow 7

Tests on Aggregates 9

Sieve analysis of aggregates 11

Specific gravity and absorption of coarse aggregate 17

Specific gravity and absorption of fine aggregate 20

Tests on Bitumen 23

Penetration 25

Softening point 29

Fire and flash points 31

Ductility of asphalt binder 36

Specific gravity of asphalt cement 40

Marshall Method of mix design 44

Measurement of Texture depth by the Sound Patch Method 69

Skid Resistance 71

Extraction of Asphalt 77

Loss of stability 83

Appendix 1(Test sheet) 86

Appendix 2 (Safety roll) 101

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 C OURSE S YLLABUS

1. Course Number and Name: 0908548- Pavement and Highway Laboratory

2. Credit and Contact Hours: 1 credits, 3 hours of contact /week
3. Course Coordinator and Lecturer:
1) Dr. Akram S. Suleiman.
2) Eng. Mustafa Quteishat
4. Textbook:
3) Pavement and Highway Laboratory Manual by Akram Suleiman, 2018.
Recommended books:
4) American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) - Test Methods.
5) The Asphalt Institute “Mix Design Methods for Asphalt Concrete and Other Hot Mix Types”
Manual Series No.2 (MS-2).
Required software:
6) Microsoft Excel
5. Specific Course Information:
Catalog description: This course covers the following topics: tests on properties of asphalt binder such as:
penetration, flash point, ductility, viscosity, specific gravity, softening point. Tests on asphalt paving mixtures
such as: skid resistance and extraction.

Prerequisites: 0908545 Pavement Design

6. Course Specific Performance Indicators

Performance indicators addressed by the course and SO mapping

Course Performance Indicators Student Level of Learning*

Outcome
Determine properties of asphalt binder and aggregate at the 6 2
laboratory.
6 2
Conduct experimentation to design HMA using Marshall mix
design.

*Level of Learning: a number (1, 2 or 3) according to Blooms Taxonomy:

Level 1: Remembering and Understanding
Level 2: Applying and Analyzing
Level 3: Evaluating and Creating

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7. Topics Covered

1. Introduction: safety requirements, how to write a laboratory report, types of asphalt and its uses
2. Sieve analysis of aggregates
3. Specific gravity and absorption of coarse and fine aggregate
4. Penetration
5. Ductility of asphalt binder
6. Softening point
7. Fire and flash points
8. Specific gravity of asphalt cement
9. Marshall Method of mix design
10. Measurement of Texture depth by the Sound Patch Method
11. Skid Resistance
12. Extraction of Asphalt
13. Loss of stability
8. Direct Assessment Tools and Weights:
1. Laboratory Reports 30%
2. Mid Exam 30%
3. Final Exam 40%
9. Indirect Assessment Tools:
1. Course performance indicators survey by students
10. Performance Targets Passing Criteria:

Direct 1. 65% of the class students score over 60% in each performance indicator and
performance each supported program outcome
Targets 2. The class average is at least 65% in each performance indicator and each
supported program outcome

Indirect 1. 65% of the class students score over 60% in each performance indicator and
performance each supported program outcome
Targets

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 Laboratory Report
The lab reports must be neat and organized.
Organization cannot be overrated.
The use of a word processor is required as is use of correct English and complete sentences. Microsoft
word is convenient and widely available.
Always put page numbers on your reports. Reports should be clearly printed using a word processor.
Handwritten reports will not be accepted.
All graphs must be computer-generated using EXCEL or other spread sheet type program.

REPORT FORMAT

Lab report contents:

Cover Sheet
a) Title of the lab (experiment title)
b) Date of lab and date report submitted
c) Name(s) and ID number(s) of student(s).
1) Introduction:
Describe the objective of the experiment, giving the background theory (in your own words).
Most importantly, describe the purpose and objectives of the experiment. Here and throughout
the report you should write clearly.
2) Standard:
Refer to the standard numbers that elaborate the method of testing, either ASTM or AASHTO.
3) Apparatus:
List all machines, tools and accessories used to conduct the experiment. Here, where possible,
you can provide some figures or sketches to illustrate the features of used apparatus.
4) Procedure: in your OWN words, describe the method of experiment, in correct sequence
showing the various steps, using past tense verbs. Example “the fine aggregate was dried by
a hair dryer”.

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 5) Data, Results and Calculations:
Contain the experimental data and all the parameters calculated from these measurements in
tabulated form. If there are any figures or graphs, they should be included in this section.
6) Analysis and Discussions:
Include a section that clearly outlines how you performed whatever analysis and calculations
that you used to transform the data and/or theory to the form you present in the Results and
Calculations section. The analysis you do here is the most important part of the lab. The right
answer is not the only important result, the explanation of what happened and why is more
important. Always quantify your explanations when discussing errors or other aspects of the
experiment.
7) Conclusions:
Describe your results and make appropriate conclusions. Did the experiment agree with the
theory you described in the introduction? If not, why not? What are the sources of error?
Explain. Use common sense as well as the theory in analyzing your experiment. Graphs and
charts for comparisons should be included in this section. Whenever possible (that will be in
all the labs), compare the data you take with theoretical values.
8) References;
Mention all references you used in your lab report.
The grading of the report will be as follow:

1. Title page (5 points)

2. Abstract (5 points)

3. Introduction (5 points)

4. Objectives (5 points)

5. Tested materials (5 points)

6. Apparatus (5 points)

7. Laboratory work (5 points)

8. Test results (20 points)

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 9. Discussion (15 points)

10. Conclusion (10 points)

11. References (5 points)

12. Appendices (5 points)

13. Overall (clarity, spelling, & punctuation) (10 points)

General Requirements:

1. Attendance at all sessions of the lab is expected. If due to an emergency, you cannot attend a
lab, please make an arrangement with the instructor ahead of the class starting time. Absence
without acceptable excuse will result in an "Incomplete" grade. Absence with acceptable
excuse, a special written report on the experiment is required.
2. Lab section will be divided into groups of 5 to 7 students. A group leader will be assigned for
each experiment and will be responsible for directing the experiment, cleaning the equipment
and posting the resulted data sheets on the board.
3. Each student is expected to read the upcoming experiment in the textbook prior to coming to
lab.
4. Deliberate plagiarism is a serious act of academic misconduct. Students will get zero mark and
may be suspended from the University if they are found to have plagiarized others work or
submitting another student’s work in whole or in part.

Important Notes:
1) Lab coat is Mandatory in the Highway Lab, you should wear your own lab coats in every lab
sessions; otherwise the used asphalt and aggregate might ruin your dress. We expect ALL
students should adhere with this essential lab regulation.
2) Your lab report will be evaluated according to the following:
a) Correct English language: as stated above use your own words, copying from internet or
books are prohibited, read and rewrite what you understand, rephrasing is possible if it
reflects the idea.
b) Cheating or copying from colleague’s lab report is easily caught, and both (or all) lab
reports will be subject to marks deduction.
c) Report formatting, as stated above, are important and affect your overall mark.
d) As aforementioned, the analysis you do is the most important part of the lab, very
important to interpret the data and comment on the obtained results, any discrepancies, is
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 it matching with the expected standard or not,etc, write down the possible source errors ,
if exist.
e) Late submission is not tolerated and will be subject to marks deduction.

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 Tests on Aggregates
The term ‘Aggregate’ refers to granular mineral particles that are widely used for highway bases,
subbases, and backfill. Aggregates are also used in combination with bitumen to form asphalt
pavements for bases, subbases, wearing s urfaces.
In asphalt mixtures, aggregates usually compromise between 90% and 95% of the weight
and between 80% and 85% of the volume of the mixture. Moreover, the aggregate is
primarily responsible for the load supporting capacity of asphalt mixtures. Hence, a
detailed discussion of the physical properties of aggregates is essential to an
understanding of the design and performance of asphalt mixtures.
Sources of aggregates for asphalt mixtures are two, (1) naturally occurring deposits (the
majority of aggregate used in road construction are obtained from this type, such as
residual deposits obtained by quarrying and transported deposits are found in stream
beds, sand and gravel, etc.), and (2) artificially or industrially prepared deposits ( such
as blast furnace slag).In this lab we use naturally Occurring materials. The next figure
illustrates the aggregate sources and types.

Aggregates

Naturally Occuring Materials Industrially Prepared Materials

Igneous Rock Sedimentary Rock Metamorphic Rock

Slag Clinker
(Primary) (Secondary) (Altered)

Granite Sandstone Quartizite

Coherent
Quartz Limeston Slate
Rhyolite Marble
Basalt Sands
Incoherent
Gravels

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Size Classification of Soil- Aggregate Mixtures for highway construction purposes:
1) Boulders:
Material retained on 75 mm (3in) sieve.
2) Gravel:
Material passing the 75 mm (3 in) sieves and retained on the 4.76mm (No.4) sieve. Two types;
a) Coarse Gravel:
Gravel passing 75mm (3in) and retained on 19.00mm (3/4 𝑖𝑛 ).

b) Fine Gravel:
Gravel passing 19.00mm (3/4in)and retained on the 4.76mm (No.4) sieve.

3) Fine Aggregate:
Material passing the 4.76mm (No.4) sieves and retained on the 0.074 mm (No.200) sieve. The
sand is three types:
4) Filler (Combined silt and clay, also called Silt-Clay or Mineral aggregate):
Material passing the 0.074mm (No.200) sieve.

The Aggregates Test is carrying out to know the properties of aggregates and the suitable of
the aggregates used in highway construction. in this lab the following tests on aggregates
will be conducted:
1. Sieve Analysis for course and fine aggregates
2. Specific gravity and absorption of course aggregates
3. Specific gravity and absorption of fine aggregate

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 Experiment No.1
Sieve analysis of course and fine aggregates
1. Introduction
Aggregate is the main property of the performance of the pavement layers. The gradation of aggregate
is the blend of particle size of the mix that affects the density, strength and economy of the pavement
structure. There is various size of sieve to design the proportion in a mineral aggregate
mix.
2. Objective
Aggregate grading is carried out to determine the proportion of aggregate required from
each stockpile (or container) to fit into the given specification.
3. Standard: ASTM C136, AASHTO T27.
4. Apparatus:
a) Sieves: The following sieves were used.
Sieve Size
Inch mm
1 25.4
¾ 19.00
½ 12.70
3/8 9.51
No.4 4.76
No.8 2.38
No.16 1.19
No.30 0.60
No.50 0.297
No.100 0.149
No.200 0.074

b) Mechanical sieve Shaker

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c) Balance or scale having a capacity of 5 kg or more with accuracy to measure 0.50g. (For fine
aggregate, readable to 0.1 g and accurate to 0.1 g or 0.1 % of the test load, whichever is
greater, at any point within the range of use.)

5. Procedure to determine particle size distribution of Aggregates:

1) Approximately 5 kg aggregate from each stockpile (or container) are sieved in the specified
sieve size.
2) The size of the test sample of coarse aggregate shall conform with the following:
Maximum size present in Minimum weight of sample
substantial proportions (mm) dispatched for testing (kg)
63 60
50 20
37.5 15
25 (1ʺ) 10
19 (3/4ʺ) 5
12.5 (1/2ʺ) 2
9.5 (3/8ʺ) 1

3) The sample for sieving should be prepared from the larger sample either by quartering or
by means of a sample divider.
4) Air-dry aggregate or using oven-dry to constant mass at a temperature of 110 ± 5°C.
5) After allocating the aggregate in the sieve, then the mechanical sieve shaker is used to
sieve it for 10 minutes.
6) On completion of sieving, the material on each sieve is weighed.

6. Calculations:
1) The percent passing the sieve aggregate through the selective size are determined by taking the
weight retained on each individual sieves over the original weight of the aggregate.
2) Cumulative weight passing through each sieve is calculated as a percentage of the total sample
weight.
3) Fineness modulus is obtained by adding cumulative percentage of aggregates retained on each
sieve (excluding retained on sieve 200 and pan) and dividing the sum by 100.
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 4) Use the following table to tabulate the results:
Sieve

Wt. of sieve &

Wt. of empty

Specification
retained agg.

% retained

% passing
size

Limits
Wt. of

Cum.

Cum.
sieve

agg.
(g)

(g)

(g)

Retained
%
in mm

1” 25.4 100
¾” 19.00 90-100
½” 12.70 71-90
3/8” 9.51 56-80
No.4 4.76 35-56
No.8 2.38 23-38
No.16 1.19 13-27
No.30 0.60 10-20
No.50 0.297 5-17
No.100 0.149 4-14
No.200 0.074 2-8
Pan
Total
Example Calculations
The percent retained on any sieve size (mm) is calculated as below:
𝑊𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑎𝑖𝑛𝑒𝑑 𝑜𝑛 𝑝𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑐𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑟 𝑠𝑒𝑖𝑣𝑒
Percent retained (%) = 𝑥 100
𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡

7. Reporting of Results:

The results should be tabulated as on the above table, calculated, and reported as:
a) The cumulative percentage by weight of the total sample.

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b) The percentage by weight of the total sample passing through one sieve and retained on
the next smaller sieve, to the nearest 0.1 percent.
c) The results of the sieve analysis to be drawn graphically on a semi-log graph
As follows:
a) The abscissa (log scale) as a % by weight passing a given size on arithmetic scale
(Refer to the figure in page 11).
b) The ordinate is the particle (Sieve) size plotted to a logarithmic scale.
1- Draw the specification limits (maximum and minimum limits) to be used for a
particular mixture, refer to the figure below.
2- On the same graph (drawn in (1) above), draw the result of gradation (size
distribution) of tested aggregate, which supposed to be among the specification
limits.
d) Fineness modulus is obtained by adding cumulative percentage of aggregates retained on
each sieve (excluding retained on sieve 200 and pan) and dividing the sum by 100.

e) In case the experiment sieve gradation was out of specification limits, analyze and interpret
the data and find out which sieve size or % passing of a specific sieve that deviated outside
the specification limits.
f) What you propose to do to correct the gradation of experiment’s sample?
g) What might be the source of error/errors that might causes the sieve size to be outside the
specification limits?

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 120

100
Specification Limits
Passing by Weight

80

60

40
%

20

0
1 3/4 1/2 3/8 No.4 No.8 No.16 No.50 No.100 No.200
Sieve Size

Grading curve of aggregate

Page 15 of 106
Page 16 of 106
 Experiment No.2
Specific Gravity and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate
For course and fine aggregate, the specific gravity can be defined as the ratio of dry weight of
aggregate to the weight of equal volume of the same of another material and usually water taken as
the reference material.
Specific gravity is needed to determine weight-to-volume relationships and to calculate various
volume-related quantities such as voids in mineral aggregate (VMA), and voids filled by asphalt
(VFA). Absorption can be used as an indicator of aggregate durability as well as the volume of asphalt
binder it is likely to absorb, thus absorption values are used to calculate the change in the weight of
aggregate due to water (or asphalt) absorbed in the pore spaces within the constituent particles.
1) Standard test method:
AASHTO T 85 and ASTM C 127: Specific Gravity and Absorption of Coarse aggregate
2) Introduction:
Specific gravity of aggregate is the ratio of the weight of a unit volume of the material of the weight
of an equal volume of water at approximately 23 C (73.4 F), and it can be calculated using the
following formula:
o Specific gravity = (weight/volume)/unit weight of water.
There are four different aggregate specific gravities used for Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) based on the
method used to define the volume of the aggregate particles:
1) Apparent specific gravity
(Include only the volume of the aggregate particle; it does not include the volume of any pores
or capillaries that become filled with water after 24-hour soaking) Apparent specific gravity is
intended to only measure the specific gravity of the solid volume; therefore, it will be the highest
of the aggregate specific gravities.
2) Bulk specific gravity
(Include the overall volume of the aggregate particle, as well as the volume of the pores that
become filled with water after 24-hour soaking)bulk specific gravity will be less than apparent
specific gravity.

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 3) Effective specific gravity
(Include the overall volume of the aggregate, plus the pores that become filled with water after
24-hour soaking, minus the volume of the larger pores that absorbed asphalt). Effective specific
gravity lies between apparent and bulk specific gravity.
4) Saturated Surface Dry (SSD) Specific Gravity:
Volume measurement includes the overall volume of the aggregate particle as well as the
volume of the water permeable voids.
3) Apparatus:
a) Balance: weighing device having a capacity of 5 kg or more with sensitive accuracy to read
0.5g.
b) Sample container: a wire basket of 3 mm (No.6) or finer mesh.
c) Suitable apparatus for suspending the sample container (wire basket) in water from center of
the scale pan or balance.
d) Absorbent cloth or towel to dry the aggregate for saturated – surface- dry condition.
4) Procedure:
1. Obtain a sample of coarse aggregate material retained on the No. 4 (4.75 mm) sieve, reject all
passing aggregate. This sample size is based on nominal maximum aggregate size. Sample
sizes range from 2000 g for a 0.5 inch (12.5 mm) NMAS to 5000 g for a 1.5 inch (37.5 mm)
NMAS.
2. Prepare the material:
 Wash the aggregate retained on the No. 4 (4.75 mm) sieve. This discards
small aggregate particles or dust clinging to the retained large particles.
 Dry the material until it maintains a constant mass. This indicates that all the water has
left the sample. Drying should occur in an oven regulated at 230°F (110°C).
 Cool the aggregate to a comfortable handling temperature.
 Immerse the aggregate in water at room temperature for a period of 24∓ 4 hours.
 Remove the sample from water, and avoid losing particles.
3. Dry the sample to a saturated surface dry (SSD) condition. Rolling up the aggregate into the towel
and then shaking and rolling the aggregate from side to side is usually effective in reducing the
Page 18 of 106
 sample to a SSD condition It may be necessary to wipe the larger particles separately. Once there
are no visible signs of water film on the aggregate particle surfaces, determine the sample mass
(denoted as B).
4. Place the entire sample in a wire basket and weigh it underwater. The basket should be pre-
conditioned to the water bath temperature 23∓1.7°𝐶 (73.4 ∓ 3°𝐹). Shake the container to release
any entrapped air before weighing. Denote to the measured weight as C.
5. Remove the aggregate from the water and dry it until it maintains a constant mass. This
indicates that all the water has left the sample. Drying should occur in an oven regulated at
230∓9°F (110°∓5°C).
6. Cool the aggregate in air at room temperature for 1 to 3 hours then determine the mass. Denote
the weight after drying as A.
5) Data and Calculation:
A = mass of oven-dry sample in air (g): SD
B = mass of SSD sample in air (g): SSD
C = mass of sample in water (g): SSW
A
Apparent specific gravity (Gsa) =
A −C
A
Bulk specific gravity (Gsb) =
B−C
𝐵
Bulk (SSD) = 𝐵−𝐶
B−A
Absorption (%) = x 100
A
Note that A=mass of oven-dry sample in air = (mass of specimen + mass of pan) - (mass of pan)
6) Report:
a) Report the specific gravity results to the nearest 0.01, and indicate the type of specific gravity,
whether Bulk, Bulk(Saturated- Surface-Dry basis) , or Apparent specific gravity.
b) Report the absorption result to the nearest 0.1%.

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 Experiment No.3
Specific Gravity and Absorption of Fine aggregate
1) Introduction:
The object of this experiment is to determine the bulk specific gravity and apparent specific gravity
and absorption of fine aggregate.
2) Standard test method:ASTM C 128: Specific Gravity and Absorption of Fine aggregate.
3) Apparatus:
a) Balance: A balance or scale having a capacity of 1 kg or more, sensitive to 0.1g or
less reading accuracy.
b) Pycnometer: A flask
or other suitable
container in which the
fine aggregate test
sample can be readily
introduced. The
volume of the
container filled to
mark shall be at least
50% greater than the
space required to accommodate the test sample. A volumetric capacity of flask is
500 cm3.
c) Mold: a metal mold or cone with dimension as follows:
40∓ 3mm inside diameter at top, 90∓ 3mm inside diameter at bottom, and 75
∓3mm in height, with the metal having a minimum thickness of 0.80mm.
d) Tamper: a metal tamper weighing 340∓ 15g and having a flat circular tamping
face 25∓3mm in diameter.
e) Water bath.
f) Instrument to produce hot air, as a hair dryer.

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 g) Thermometer to measure the temperature.
h) Cleaning Brush

4) Procedure:
1. Obtain approximately 1000 g (1 kg) of aggregate material passing the No. 4 (4.75 mm) sieve
and retained on 0.075mm (No.200) sieve.
2. Prepare the material:
 Dry the material until it maintains a constant mass. This indicates that all the water has left the
sample. Drying should occur in an oven regulated at 230°F (110°C).
 Cool the aggregate to a comfortable handling temperature.
 Immerse the aggregate in water at room temperature for a period of 24∓4 hours.
3. Dry the sample to a saturated surface dry (SSD) condition:
Decant excess water with care to avoid loss of fines. Spread sample on a flat, non-absorbent
surface and stir it occasionally to assist in homogeneous drying. A current of warm air may be
used to assist drying procedure. The air current (typically from a blow dryer) should not blow
the sample off the non-absorbent surface. Throughout this drying process, the aggregate should
be repeatedly tested for a SSD condition using the Cone Test as follows:
 Fill a cone-shaped metal mold to overflowing with drying aggregate.
 Lightly tamp the aggregate into the mold with 25 light drops of a small metal tamper
 Remove loose aggregate from the outside of the mold and carefully lift the mold
vertically.
 If surface moisture is still present, the fine aggregate will retain its molded shape .When
the aggregate achieves an SSD condition, it will slump slightly.
 Upon the first test where slumping occurs, record the weight of the aggregate as SSD
mass, denotes as D.
4. Calibrate a specific gravity flask pycnometer by filling with water at 73.4°F (23°C) to the
calibration line and determine the mass ( denotes as B).

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 5. Place 500 ± 10 grams of the SSD aggregate into the pycnometer and fill with water at 73.4°F
(23°C)) to 90% of pycnometer capacity. Agitate the pycnometer to eliminate air bubbles and
then determine total mass of the pycnometer.
6. Determine the total weight of pycnometer, specimen, and water (denotes as C).
7. Remove the aggregate from the pycnometer and dry it until it maintains a constant mass. This
indicates that all the water has left the sample. Drying should occur in an oven regulated at 230°F
(110°C).
8. Cool the aggregate in air at room temperature for 1.0 ± 0.5 hours then determine the mass
(denotes as A).
5) Data and Calculation:
Oven dried weight of aggregate in air (A) =
Weight of flask filled with water (B) =
Weight of flask with specimen and water (C) =
Saturated surface dry (SSD) weight of aggregate (D) =
A
Apparent specific gravity (Gsa) = A + B – C
A
Bulk specific gravity (Gsb) = B + D – C
𝐷
Bulk (SSD) =
𝐵+𝐷−𝐶
D–A
Absorption (%) = x 100
A

Mass of oven dry (A) = (mass of specimen + mass of pan) – (mass of pan)
6) Report:
1. Report the specific gravity results to the nearest 0.01, and indicate the type of specific gravity,
whether Bulk, Bulk (Saturated- Surface-Dry basis), or Apparent specific gravity.
2. Report the absorption result to the nearest 0.1%.

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 Tests on Bitumen
Source of Bitumen:

It is necessary at this point to describe the different bituminous binders and identify the type of
construction for which each is used. Bituminous binders can be classified into three general groups:
asphalt cement, asphalt cutbacks, and emulsified asphalt.
Blown asphalt and road tars are also other types of bituminous material that now are not used
commonly in highway construction.

Cutback bitumen (Liquid bitumen) is bitumen dissolved in a petroleum solvent. Typical solvents
include gasoline, kerosene and diesel. The type of solvent controls the curing time (RC, MC, and SC)
and its ultimate strength, while the amount of solvent affects the viscosity of the cutback bitumen.
Solvent is added to reduce the viscosity of the bitumen temporarily so that can penetrate pavements
more effectively or allow spaying at temperatures that are too cold for successful spaying. The solvent
bitumen will evaporate after application to leave the remaining material similar in hardness to that of
the original bitumen.
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Bitumen emulsions are dispersions of bitumen in water. Hot bitumen, water and emulsifier are
processed in a high speed colloid mill that disperses the bitumen in the water in the form of small
droplets.
The advantage of cutbacks have over emulsions, is a much higher residual bitumen percent, typical
over 80%. This compare with just over 65% for bitumen emulsions. The result is more bitumen cement
left on the roadway after curing, for the same volume of binder applied.

PROPERTIES OF ASPHALT MATERIALS

The properties of asphalt materials pertinent to pavement construction can be classified into four main
categories:
 Consistency
 Aging and temperature sustainability
 Rate of curing
 Resistance to water action

Page 24 of 106
 Experiment No. 4

Penetration Test

1) Introduction:
The basic principle of the penetration test was to determine the depth to which a shortened sewing
needle penetrated an asphalt sample under specified conditions of load, time and temperature.

The penetration test expressed as the distance in tenths of millimeter that a standard needle vertically
penetrates a sample of bitumen under specified conditions of:

Load = 100g, temperature = 25° C and time = 5 seconds

This test can measure the consistency of the materials to use it in describe its softness, where the lower
values of penetration indicate harder materials (strength).

The penetration test is used as a measure of consistency. Higher values of penetration indicate softer
consistency.

Thus the asphalt classified based on the penetration value.

The grades of the asphalt cement depending on the penetration in 1/10 mm are:
a) AC 20 – 30 (hard & not effect with temperature): used for inclined planes due to its high
viscosity.
b) AC 40 – 50: used for filling isolation cracks & joints.
c) AC [(60 – 70) hot weather]: used for highway pavement.
d) AC [(80 – 100 & 120 – 150) cold weather]: used for highway pavement.
e) AC 200 – 300: for emulsions because its flexibility.

2) Standard Test Methods:

ASTM D 5-97: Penetration of Bituminous materials

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3) Equipments & Apparatus:
 Penetrometer: is a needle holder permits to move

vertically and connected to a scale capable of

measurements to the nearest 0.1 mm. Weight of

Penetrometer shall be 47.5 ∓ 0.05 g. The total weight of

penetrometer and needle shall be 50.0∓ 0.05g.

 Weight of 100g.

 Standard penetration needle: shall be made from fully

hardened stainless steel. Shall be approximately 50 mm (2in) in length and 1.00 to 1.02 mm in

diameter.

 Sample containers: a metal or glass cylindrical flat bottom container of essentially the

following dimensions shall be used:

1) For penetrations below 200: 55mm diameter, 35mm internal depth.

2) For penetrations between 200 and 350: 70mm diameter, 45mm internal depth.

 Water bath: a bath having a capacity of at least 10 liters and capable of maintaining a

temperature of 25∓0.1°C or any other temperature of test within 0.1°C.

 Transfer dish: when used, the transfer dish shall have a capacity of at least 350 ml and of

sufficient depth of water to cover the larger sample container.

 Timing device: for hand-operated penetrations, any convenient timing device such as an

electric timer or a stop watch.

 Thermometer.

4) Preparation of test specimen:

1. Heat the sample with care, temperature should not be more than 90°C (between 75 and 90oC)
above the expected softening point of the bitumen. Stir it thoroughly to remove air bubbles and
water.

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 2. Pour the sample into two containers to 5 mm below the tip. The heating and pouring should be
accomplished within a period of thirty minutes.
3. Cool it at an atmospheric temperature of 15 to 30oC for 11/2 hours. Then place it in a transfer
dish in the water bath at 25.0 + 0.1oC for 11/2hrs and cover it against the dust.
5) Test Conditions:
Where the conditions of test are not specifically mentioned, the temperature is 25°C (77°F),
load is 100 g, and time is 5 seconds.
6) Procedure:
1. Clean the needle and place it in the holder then place the 100g above the needle.
2. Lower the needle carefully until it reaches the surface of the bitumen.
3. The reflection of the needle at the surface of the sample should be seen.
4. Make the zero of the pointer of the scale, or take the initial reading.
5. Release the needle holder quickly
6. After the 5 second, record the reading of the distance the needle moved.

7. Repeat steps 5 to 10 to get 3 reading. Carry out at least 3 determinations at points on the surface
at least 10 mm apart, gently clean the needle after each test.
8. Report the average as the penetration of the tested bituminous material.
9. Don't forget the cleaning of the needle.

7) Results and analysis:

The depth of penetration is measured in units of 0.1 mm and reported in penetration units (e.g., if the
needle penetrates 8 mm, the asphalt penetration number is 80). Penetration grading is based on the
penetration test.

Penetration Grade Comments

40 – 50 Hardest grade.
60 – 70 Typical grades used in the U.S., Jordan and Arab Gulf region
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Penetration Grade Comments
85 – 100
120 – 150
200 – 300 Softest grade. Used for cold climates such as northern Canada.
The less viscous the asphalt, the deeper the needle will penetrate .Therefore, asphalt binders with high
penetration numbers (called “soft”) are used for cold climates while asphalt binders with low
penetration numbers (called “hard”) are used for warm climates.

Result example:

Trial No Penetration

(1/10 mm)
1 73

2 69

3 60

4 60

Average 67.75
Then the asphalt is classified within AC (60 – 70).
The penetration = (1/10) x (67.75) = 6.78 mm.
8) Report:
a) Report the penetration grade of used bitumen.
b) Answer the following:
1) When the high and low penetration grades are used?
2) Comment on the effects of viscosity and hardness on the penetration grades.
3) What is the effect of room temperature on the penetration grades?

Page 28 of 106
 Experiment No. 5
Softening Point of Bitumen (Ring-and-Ball Apparatus)
1) Introduction:

The softening point is defined as the temperature at which a bitumen sample can no longer support the
weight of a 3.5 grams steel ball. Basically, two horizontal disks of bitumen, cast in shouldered brass
rings, are heated at a controlled rate in a liquid bath while each supports a steel ball.
The softening point is reported as the mean of the temperatures at which the two bitumen disks soften
enough to allow each ball, sag down or enveloped in bitumen, to fall a distance of 25.4 mm (1in) under
the weight of these steel balls. The softening point is useful in the classification of bitumen.
The procedure in common use in highway materials laboratories is known as the "ring-and-ball
method" and may be applied to semisolid and solid materials. Softening point: is the temperature in
which bitumen change from solid to liquid.

2) Standard Test Methods

AASHTO T 53 and ASTM D 36-95: Softening Point of Bitumen (Ring-and-Ball Apparatus).

3) Equipments & Apparatus:
 Two brass rings.
 Two 9.53 mm (3/8 in) diameter steel balls, each weight
3.50∓0.05gm.
 Ball centering guides: made of brass.
 Flat brass plate.
 Water bath in the form of a glass vessel capable of being
heated not less than 85mm in diameter and not less than
120mm in depth.
 Heating source.
 Thermometer: a bitumen softening point thermometer having
arrange from -1 to 175°C (30 to 350°F)

4) Procedure:
1) PREPARATION OF SAMPLE
I. Heat the material between 75 and 100oC with care to prevent overheating level, until the sample
has become sufficiently fluid to pour. Stir it to remove air bubbles and water.
II. Fill the rings with sufficient molten sample to give an excess above the top of each ring when
cooled.

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 III. Cool 30 min in air.
IV. Remove excess material with the help of a warmed,
sharp knife.
2) Test procedure:
I) Assemble the apparatus with the rings,
thermometer and ball guides in position.
II) Fill the beaker with boiled distilled water at a
temperature 5.0 ± 0.5oC per minute.
III) With the help of a stirrer, stir the liquid and apply
heat to the beaker at a temperature of 5.0 ± 0.5oC
per minute.
IV) Apply heat until the material softens and allow the
ball to pass through the ring.
V) Record the temperature at which the ball touches the bottom, which is the softening point
of that material.
5) Data & Analysis:
 Fall of first ball at ( ° 𝐶) :
 Fall of second ball at ( o
𝐶):
 Average = °C.
 Standard of softening point (45.0o 𝐶- 48.0o 𝐶)
6) Report:
Report to the nearest 0.50°C (1.0°F) the mean of the temperatures recorded in duplicate
determination as the softening point of the used bitumen. Answer the following question in your report:
(What is the effect of lower softening point in the asphalt?)

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 Experiment No.6
Flash and Fire Points by Cleveland Open Cup Tester
1) Introduction:

This method covers determination of the flash and fire points of all petroleum products except fuel
oils and these having an open cup flash below above 79°C (175°F).
The Flash Point test is used to determine the temperature to which asphalt materials may be safely
heated without danger of instantaneous flash in the presence of open flame. It’s the temperature at
which the vapor pressure is high enough to give off sufficient hydrocarbon vapors to form an explosive
mixture with air when contacted with an open flame. The Fire Point is the temperature at which the
material will burn.
Flash point is used in shipping and safety regulations to define flammable and combustible materials.

In British standards, the expected Flash Points are as follows:

Type of Bitumen Expected Flash Point, ° C
AC 175 – 235
RC < 40
Cutbacks MC 40 – 110
SC > 110
This test is done on any type of bitumen. The Cleveland Cup Flash Point tester is widely used. The
material in the cup is directly heated by a Bunsen burner with the temperature rising at a slow constant
rate. A small test flame is passed across the cup at specified intervals. The lowest temperature at which
application of the test flame causes vapors above the surface of the liquid to ignite is taken as Flash
Point. If the Flash Point test is continued until the test flame causes the liquid to ignite and burn for at
least 5sec then this temperature is taken as Fire Point.
2) Standard:
ASTM D 92-05.
3) Apparatus: refer to figures 1, 2 and 3 for dimension details.
1. Cleveland open cup: the apparatus consists of the test cup, heating plate, test flame
applicator, heater and support.
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 2. Thermometer: a thermometer having a range -6 to 400°C (20 to 760°F).
3. Gas supply.

4) Procedure:
A) Sample preparation;
1. Wash the test cup with an appropriate solvent to remove any oil or residue remaining
from a previous test. Flush the cup with cold water and dry for a few minutes over an
open flame or a hot plate. Cool the cup to at least 56°C (100°F) below the expected
flash point before using.

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 2. Support the thermometer in a vertical position with the bottom of the bulb 6.4mm (1/4
in) from the bottom of the cup and locate at a point half way between the center and
side at the cup.
3. Fill the cup at any convenient temperature so that the top of the meniscus is exactly at
the filling line. If too much sample has been added to the cup, remove the excess using
a medicine dropper. Destroy any air bubbles on the surface of the sample.
B) Test method:
1. Apply heat initially so that the rate of the temperature rise of the sample is 14 to 17°C (25 to
35°F)/minute when the sample temperature is approximately 56°C (100°F) below the
anticipated flash point, decrease the heat so that the rate of temperature for the last 28°C (50°
F) before the flash point is 5 to 6 °C (9 to 11°F)/minute.
2. When temperature reaches 35°C apply the test flame every 2°C on the thermometer.

3. Pass the test flame across the center of the cup in a smooth motion in one direction in
approximately 1 sec. Pass the flame in the opposite direction in the next test application.
4. The center of the test flame must move in a horizontal plane not more than 2mm (5/64in)
above the plane of the upper edge at the cup and passing in one direction only.
5. Record as the observed Flash point the temperature read on the thermometer when a flash
appears at any point of the surface of the oil.
6. To determine the Fire point, continue heating so that the sample temperature increases at a rate
of 5 to 6°C/ minute. Continue the application of the test flame at 2°C (5°F) intervals until the
oil ignites and continue to burn for at least 5 seconds
7. Record the temperature at this point as the observed fire point of the oil.
8. Record the room Atmospheric Pressure

Data, Calculations and analysis:

If the flame last for 4 sec then extinguished, then we are still in the Flash Point range. The Fire Point
must last for 5 sec at least. The Atmospheric Pressure will affect the vaporizing rate and so the Flash
Point, observe and record the barometric pressure at the time of the test when the pressure differs from
the atmospheric pressure at sea level 760mm Hg, so we use a Corrected Flash\Fire Point Equation:
Corrected flash or fire point, or both = F + 0.06(760 - P) or
Corrected flash or fire point, or both = C + 0.033 (760 - P)
Where,
P = Barometric pressure, mm Hg (pressure in testing room).
F = Observed flash or fire point to the nearest 5°F.
C = Observed flash or fire point to the nearest 2°C.
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Data:

Pressure in the lab = mm Hg

Observed Flash Point = °C
Corrected Flash Point = °C
The sample is :
Observed Fire Point = °C
Corrected Fire Point = °C

5) Report:
Report the corrected Flash or Fire point, or both to the nearest 2°C (5°F).
Answer the following question in your report:
What is the relation between Flash point and the Penetration of asphalt?

Page 34 of 106
Page 35 of 106
Page 36 of 106
 Experiment No.7
Ductility test
1) Introduction

The ductility of a bituminous material is measured by the distance to which the bituminous material
will elongate before breaking when its ends are pulled apart at a specific speed (5 cm/min∓ 0.50) and
a specific temperature (25∓ 0.50°C (77∓ 9°F )).
This test method provides one measure of tensile properties of bituminous materials.

2) Standard Test Methods

ASTM D 113-99: Ductility of Bituminous Materials.

3) Equipment’s & Apparatus:

The apparatus required for this test:
a. Standard mold: shall be made of brass. The dimensions of the mold shall be such that,
when properly assembled it will form a briquette specimen having the following
dimensions:
1) Total length: 7.45 to 7.55 cm
2) Distance between clips : 2.97 to 3.03 cm
3) Width at mouth of clip : 1.98 to 2.02 cm
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 4) Width of minimum cross section (half way between clips)
: 0.99 to 1.01cm
5) Thickness throughout : 0.99 to 1.01cm
b. Water bath: the volume of the bath should not be less than 10 liters, and the specimen
shall be immersed to a depth of not less than 10cm and shall be supported on a
perforated shelf not less than 5 cm from the bottom of the bath.
c. Testing machine: for pulling the briquette of bituminous material apart, any apparatus
may be used which is so constructed that the specimen will be continuously immersed
in water; while the two ends clips are pulled apart at a uniform speed.
d. Thermometer: having a range from -8 to 32°C (18 to 89°F).

4) Procedure:
a) Sample preparation:
I. Completely melt the bituminous material to be tested by heating it to a temperature of 75 to
100oC above the approximate softening point until it becomes thoroughly fluid to pour. Drain
the melted sample through a No.5 (300𝜇𝑚)sieve.
II. Assemble the mold on a brass plate and in order to prevent the material under test from sticking,
thoroughly coat the surface of the plate and the interior surfaces of the sides of the mold with
grease or glycerin. The plate upon which the mold is placed shall be perfectly flat and level.
III. While filling, pour the material in a continuously thin stream back and forth from end to end
of the mold until it is more than level full.
IV. Leave it to cool at room temperature for 30 to 40 minutes and then place it in a water bath
maintained at the specified temperature for 30 minutes, after that cut off the excess bitumen by
means of a hot, straight-edged spatula, so that the mold is just level full.

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 b) Testing:

1- Attach the rings at each end of the two clips to the pins or hooks in the testing machine and
pull the two clips apart horizontally at a uniform speed, as specified, until the briquette
ruptures.
2- Measure the distance in cm through which the clips have been pulled to produce rupture.
While the test is being done, make sure that the water in the tank of the testing machine covers the
specimen both above and below by at least 25mm and the temperature is maintained continuously
within ± 0.5oC of the specified temperature.

NOTE:
If the bituminous material comes in contact with the surface of the water or the bottom of the bath, the
test shall not be considered normal. Adjust the specific gravity of the bath by the addition of either
methyl alcohol or sodium chloride so that the bituminous material neither comes to the surface of the
water, nor touches the bottom of the bath at any time during the test.
If a normal test is not obtainable on three tests, report the ductility as being unobtainable under the
conditions of the test.

5) Data & Analysis:

a- Cut of specimen at cm
6) Report:
a) Report the average of the normal tests (if more than one sample were tested) as the ductility
of the sample.

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 Experiment No. 8
Density of Semi-Solid Bituminous Materials

(Pycnometer Method)
This test method covers the determination of the specific gravity and density of semi-solid bituminous
materials, asphalt cements, and soft tar pitches by use of a pycnometer.

Standard: ASTM D-70

Definitions:
Density —the mass per unit volume of a material.
Relative density—the ratio of the mass of a given volume of a material to the mass of the same volume
of water at the same temperature.

NOTE 2—Relative density is also described as specific gravity.

Summary of Test Method

The sample is placed in a calibrated pycnometer. The pycnometer and sample are weighed, then the
remaining volume is filled with water. The filled pycnometer is brought to the test temperature, and
weighed. The density of the sample is calculated from its mass and the mass of water displaced by the
sample in the filled pycnometer.

Significance and Use

Values of density are used for converting volumes to units of mass, and for correcting measured
volumes from the temperature of measurement to a standard temperature using
Practice D 4311.

Apparatus
1 Pycnometer, glass, consisting of a cylindrical or conical vessel carefully ground to receive an
accurately fitting glass stopper 22 to 26 mm in diameter. The stopper shall be provided with a hole 1.0
to 2.0 mm in diameter, centrally located in reference to the vertical axis. The top surface of the stopper
Page 40 of 106
shall be smooth and substantially plane, and the lower surface shall be concave to allow all air to
escape through the bore. The height of the concave section shall be 4.0 to 18.0 mm at the center. The
stoppered pycnometer shall have a capacity of 24 to 30 mL and shall weigh not more than 40 g.
Suitable pycnometers are illustrated in Fig. 1.
2 Water Bath, constant-temperature, capable of maintaining the temperature within 0.1°C of the test
temperature.
3 Thermometers, calibrated liquid in glass, total immersion type, of suitable range with graduations at
least every 0.1°C and a maximum scale error of 0.1°C as prescribed in
Specification E 1. Thermometer commonly used is ASTM 63°C. Older ASTM 63F thermometers may
be used until supplies are exhausted. Any other thermometer device of equal accuracy may be used.

Test Procedure:
Thoroughly clean, dry, and weigh the pycnometer to the nearest 1 mg. Designate this mass as A.

Remove the beaker from the water bath. Fill the pycnometer with freshly boiled distilled or deionized
water, placing the stopper loosely in the pycnometer. Place the pycnometer in the beaker and press the
stopper firmly in place. Return the beaker to the water bath.

Allow the pycnometer to remain in the water for a period of not less than 30 min. Remove the
pycnometer, immediately dry the top of the stopper with one stroke of a dry towel (Note 4), then

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quickly dry the remaining outside area of the pycnometer and weigh to the nearest 1 mg. Designate
the mass of the pycnometer plus water as B.
Pour enough sample into the clean, dry, 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 (Note 5). Allow the pycnometer and its contents to cool to
ambient temperature for a period of not less than 40 min and weigh with the stopper to the nearest 1
mg. designate the mass of the pycnometer plus sample as C.
Remove the beaker from the water bath. Fill the pycnometer containing the asphalt with freshly boiled
distilled or deionized water, placing the stopper loosely in the pycnometer.
Do not allow any air bubbles to remain in the pycnometer. Place the pycnometer in the beaker and
press the stopper firmly in place. Return the beaker to the water bath.
11.4 Allow the pycnometer to remain in the water bath for a period of not less than 30 min. remove
the pycnometer from the bath. Dry and weigh using the same technique and timing as that employed
in 10.3. Designate this mass of pycnometer plus sample plus water as D.
Calculation
12.1 Calculate the relative density to the nearest 0.001 as follows:

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 Tests on Bituminous Mixes

Bituminous mixes (sometimes called asphalt mixes) are used in the surface layer of road and airfield
pavements. The mix is composed usually of aggregate and asphalt cements. Some types of bituminous
mixes are also used in base coarse. The design of asphalt paving mix, as with the design of other
engineering materials is largely a matter of selecting and proportioning constituent materials to obtain
the desired properties in the finished pavement structure.
The desirable properties of Asphalt mixes are:
1. Resistance to permanent deformation: The mix should not distort or be displaced when subjected to
traffic loads. The resistance to permanent deformation is more important at high temperatures.
2. Fatigue resistance: the mix should not crack when subjected to repeated loads over a period of time.
3. Resistance to low temperature cracking. This mix property is important in cold regions.
4. Durability: the mix should contain sufficient asphalt cement to ensure an adequate film thickness
around the aggregate particles. The compacted mix should not have very high air voids, which
accelerates the aging process.
5. Resistance to moisture-induced damage.
6. Skid resistance.
7. Workability: the mix must be capable of being placed and compacted with reasonable effort.
8. Low noise and good drainage properties: If the mix is to be used for the surface (wearing) layer of
the pavement structure.

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 Experiment No. 9
Marshall Test

1) Introduction:
Marshal stability is a method covers the measurement of the resistance of plastic flow of cylindrical
specimens of bituminous paving mixture loaded on the lateral surface by means of the Marshal
apparatus. It is defined as the maximum load carried by the specimen at a standard test temperature of
This method is for use with mixtures containing asphalt cut-back or tar, and aggregate up to 1
in (25.4mm) maximum size. Thus it is largely used for the routine testing and its objective is to
determine the optimum asphalt content for a particular aggregate blend and asphalt to be used.
There are two major features of the Marshall method of mix design:
(i) Density-Voids Analysis
(ii) Stability-Flow Tests
The Flow Value is the deformation that the test specimen undergoes during loading up to the
maximum load. Flow is measured in 0.25 mm units. In this test, an attempt is made to obtain optimum
binder content for the type of aggregate mix used and the expected traffic intensity.
2) Standard: ASTM D 6927-05
3) Steps of Design:
1. Select aggregate grading to be used (Table 10.1).
2. Determine the proportion of each aggregate size required to produce the design grading.
3. Determine the specific gravity of the aggregate combination and asphalt cement.
4. Prepare the trial specimens with varying asphalt contents.
5. Determine the specific gravity of each compacted specimen.
6. Perform stability tests on the specimens.
7. Calculate the percentage of voids, and percent voids filled with Bitumen in each specimen.
8. Select the optimum binder content from the data obtained.
9. Evaluate the design with the design requirements.

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 Table 10.1

Sives Specification Mid % of Specimen Weight of retained

opening point retained

1" 100 100 0 Pass 1",Ret.3/4" 0

3/4" 90-100 95 5 pass3/4",Ret.1/2" 0.05x1200=60g

1/2" 71-90 81 14 pass1/2",Ret.3/8" 0.14x1200=168g

3/8" 56-80 68 13 pass3/8",Ret. #4 0.13x1200=156g

#4 35-56 46 22 Pass #4,Ret. #8 0.22x1200=264g

#8 23-38 31 15 Pass #8,Ret. #16 0.15x1200=180g

#16 13-27 20 11 Pass #16,Ret. #50 0.11x1200=132g

#50 5-17 11 9 Pass#50,Ret.#100 0.09x1200=108g

#100 4-14 9 2 Pass#100,ret.#200 0.02x1200=24g

#200 2-8 5 4 Pass #200,Ret. pan 0.04x1200=48g

Pan 5 pan 0.05x1200=60g

Total = 1200g
4) Equipment& apparatus:

1. Mold Assembly: cylindrical forming molds of 4 inches (101.6mm) diameter and 3 inches
(76mm) height consisting of a base plate and collar extension (Fig. 10.3).The base plate and
extension collar are designed to be interchangeable with either and of the forming mold.
2. Mold holder: consisting of spring tension device designed to hold compaction mold in place
on compaction pedestal.
3. Sample Extractor: for extruding the compacted specimen from the mold (Fig.10.2).
4. Compaction pedestal.
5. Compaction hammer: flat circular tamping face 37/8 in (98.4mm) diameter and 10 lb (5.5kg)
weight, constructed to obtain a specific 18 in (457mm) height of drop.

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6. Breaking head.
7. Marshall Testing Machine (Fig.10.1): an electrically powered (220 volt) testing device
designed to apply loads to test specimens through semi-circular testing heads at a constant rate
of strain of 2 inches (51mm) per minute. It is equipped with a calibrated proving ring for
determining the applied testing load, a Marshall stability testing head for use in testing the
specimen and a Marshall flow meter for determining the amount of strain at the maximum load
for test. A universal testing machine equipped with suitable load and deformation indicting
devices may be used instead of the Marshall testing frame.
8. Pans: metal, flat bottom for heating aggregates and round shape pans approximately 4 liters
capacity for mixing asphalt and aggregates.
9. Oven and hot plates: electric, for heating aggregate, asphalt and equipment as required.
10. Scoop: for batching aggregate.
11. Gloves: same as welder gloves for handling hot equipment, rubber gloves for removing
specimen from water bath.
12. Containers: pouring pots for heating asphalt
13. Thermometers: from 10°C to 232°C for determining temperature of aggregates, asphalt and
asphalt mixtures.
14. Balance: 5kg capacity, sensitive to 1.5gm for weighing aggregate and asphalt, balance 2kg,
sensitive to 0.1gm for weighing compacted specimens.
15. Spoon: large for placing the mixture to the specimen molds.
16. Mechanical mixer: commercial bread dough mixer. 4 liter capacity and hand mixing may be
used.
17. Boiling water bath: consisting of hot plate and bucket for water, for heating compaction
hammer and mold.
18. Marking crayons: for identifying test specimens.
19. Water bath: at least 6 inches deep and thermostatically controlled to 60°C. The tank should
have a perforated false bottom or be equipped with a shelf for suspending specimens at least 2
inches above the bottom of the bath.

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 1) Test specimens:
1. Number of specimens: prepare at least three compacted specimens (4 inches in
diameter and 2.5 inches in height) for each combination of aggregates and bitumen
content. At least four binder contents are to be tested to get the optimum binder
content.
Flow & Stability
Display

Load Cell

Breaking Head

Deformation
Sensor

Marshall
Specimen

Figure 10.1 Marshal Stability & Flow Test Setup

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 Figure 10.2 Marshal Specimen Extractor
2. Preparation of aggregates: dry aggregates to constant weight at 105°C to 110°C and
separate the aggregate by dry sieving into the desired size fraction (refer to Table
10.1).
3. Determination of mixing and compaction temperatures:
a) Mixing temperature: the temperature to which the asphalt cement and cutback
asphalt must be heated to produce a viscosity of 170∓ 20 cst.
b) Compacting temperature: the temperature to which asphalt cement must be
heated to produce a viscosity of 280∓ 30 cst.
2) Procedure:
A) Preparation of Mixtures:
The coarse aggregate, fine aggregate, and the filler material should be proportioned so as to fulfill the
requirements of the relevant standards (Table 10.1). The required quantity of the mix is taken so as to
produce compacted bituminous mix specimens of thickness 2.5 in (63.5 mm) approximately. 1200 gm
of aggregates and filler are required to produce the desired thickness.

1) Weight aggregates (about 1200g) into separate pans for each test specimen the amount of
each size fraction required to produce a batch that will result in a compacted sample 2.5∓
0.05 in (63.5∓1.27mm) in height.
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2) Place the pans on the hot plate or in the oven and heat to atemperature not exceeding the
mixing temperature by more than approximately 28°C (50F) for asphalt cement and tar
mixes and 14°C (25F) for cutback asphalt mixes.The aggregates are heated to a temperature
of 175° to 190°C.The bitumen is heated to a temperature of 121°C to 138°C.
3) Charge the mechanical mixing bowl with the heated aggregate and dry mix thoroughly.
4) Weight the preheated required amount of bituminous material. Note that3 duplicates
samples will be prepared for asphalt content. Typically, 5 different asphalt contents are
used.
5) At this point, the temperature at the aggregate and bituminous material shall be within the
limits of the mixing temperature (refer to 5.3a, above).
6) The required amount of first trial of bitumen is added to the heated aggregate and
thoroughly mixed. Mix the aggregate and bituminous material rapidly until thoroughly
coated.
7) Following mixing, curing asphalt cutback mixtures in a ventilated oven maintained at
approximately 11.1°C (20F) above the compaction temperature.
8) Curing to be continued in the mixing bowl during curing to accelerate the solvent loss,
however, care should be exercised to prevent loss of the mix.
9) Weight the mix during curing in successive intervals of 15 min initially and less than 10
min intervals as the weight of the mix at 50% solvent loss is approached.
10) The aggregate and asphalt mixture are ready for compaction process, refer to Fig.10.3.

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Figure #. Viscosity of Athabasca bitumen versus temperature

Page 50 of 106
Coarse & Fine
Aggregate Mix

Bitumen

Mold Assembly

Marshall
Specimen Tamping
Rod

Figure 10.3 Test Specimen Preparation

B) Compaction of samples:
a. Thoroughly clean the specimen mold assembly and the face of the compaction hammer
(weighted 10 lb).
b. The compaction mold assembly and rammer are cleaned and kept pre-heated to a
temperature of 100°C to 145°C by placing them in boiling water on the hot plate.
c. Place a piece of filter paper in the bottom of the mold before the mixture is introduced.
d. The mix will be placed in a mold and compacted with number of blows specified (as shown
later).Place the entire batch in the mold, spade the mixture vigorously with a heated spatula
or trowel 15 times around the perimeter and 10 times over the interior.
e. Remove the collar and smooth the surface of the mix with a trowel to a slightly rounded
shape.
f. Temperatures of the mixtures immediately prior to compaction shall be within the limits of
compaction temperature.
g. Replace the collar; place the mold assembly on the compaction pedestal in the mold holder.

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 h. Apply 50 blows (the compaction will depends on the traffic conditions; 35 blows for light
traffic, 50 blows for medium traffic (to use here), and 75 blows for heavy traffic) with the
compaction hammer with a free fall in 18 in (457.2mm).
i. Hold the axis of the compaction hammer perpendicular to the mold assembly during
compaction.
j. Remove the base plate and collar, reverse and reassemble the mold.
k. Apply the same number of compaction blows (50) to the face of the reverse specimen.
l. After compaction, the sample is taken out of the mold after few minutes using sample
extractor (Fig.10.2).Remove the base plate and place the sample extractor on that end of the
specimen.
m. Place the assembly with the extension collar up in the testing machine, apply pressure to the
collar by means of the load transfer bar, and force the specimen into the extension collar.
n. Lift the collar from the specimen, carefully transfer the specimen to a smooth, flat surface
and allow it to stand over night at room temperature, weight, measure, and test the sample.
o. All the compacted specimens are subject to the following tests:
a) Bulk density determination.
b) Stability and flow test.
c) Density and voids analysis.
C) Determine the Bulk Specific Gravity, Average Bulk Specific Gravity, Maximum Specific
Gravity, and Air Void Content of the compacted cores:

I. Bulk Specific Gravity (BSG):

The bulk density of the sample is usually determined by weighting the sample in air and in water.
Determine the Bulk Specific Gravity (BSG) of the compacted cores in accordance with AASHTO T-
166 Method A as follows:
 Dry the specimen to a constant mass. Constant mass shall be defined as the mass at which
further drying at 125 ± 5 °F (52 ±3 °C) does not alter the mass by more than 0.05 percent
 Cool the specimen to room temperature at 77 ± 9 °F (25 ± 5 °C), and record the dry mass A.
 Immerse each specimen in water at 77 ± 3 °F (25 ± 1 °C) for 4 ± 1 minute and record the
immersed mass, C.
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  Remove the specimen from the water, quickly damp dry the specimen by blotting with a damp
towel as quickly as possible, and determine the surface-dry mass, B.
 Calculate the Bulk Specific Gravity of each specimen using the following equation:
𝑨
Bulk Specific Gravity (BSG) of Core =𝑩−𝑪

Where: A = Weight of Core in Air (g)

B = SSD Weight of Core in Air (g)
C = Weight of Core in Water (g)
It is worth to mention that; if the samples are coated with paraffin or wax before determining density,
then the bulk specific gravity can be computed as below:
𝑨
Bulk Specific Gravity (BSG) of Core =𝑨−𝑪

Where A and C as stated above.

II. Average Bulk Specific Gravity (Gmb):
Calculate the Average Bulk Specific Gravity of the mix (Gmb) using the following equation:
BSG specimen 1 + BSG specimen 2 + BSG specimen 3
Average Bulk Specific Gravity (Gmb) = 3

This value, Gmb, will be used to determine air voids (VA) of the mixture.

III. Maximum Specific Gravity (Gmm) of mixture:

According to procedure (AASHTO T-209), the maximum specific gravity (Gmm) or RICE is
determined by AASHTO T-209 (RICE METHOD) in which vacuuming is used to extract all the air
from the mixture. This represents 100% density (no air voids) for a particular asphalt mixture. This
value is used in conjunction with the bulk specific gravity to determine the density of the compacted
specimens for that mixture. The theoretical maximum specific gravity of an asphalt concrete mixture
is the specific gravity of the mixture at zero air void content. It is one of the most difficult tests
performed inpaving materials laboratories and also one of the most important.
Determining the maximum specific gravity (Gmm) is performed as follows:
 After quartering or splitting a mixture to obtain the sample weight needed for the particular
mixture, spread the mix out on a table to cool. Separate the mix particles so that there are no
particles larger than 1/4 inch.
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 (1) Weigh the Rice bucket in air and record the weight. (A)
(2) Place the sample in the Rice bucket.
(3) Weigh the sample and the bucket together in air. (C)
(4) Add water to the sample in the bucket until the sample is completely covered with
water. The temperature of the water must be 77°F (25°C).
 Place the top on the Rice bucket and pull the vacuum to 27.75 + 2.25 mm HG.
 Maintain the vacuum for 15 ± 2 minutes, shaking the bucket at 2 minute intervals or place the
bucket on a slow continuous shaker. The vacuum is removing the air voids in the mix.
 After the 15 minutes are up, release the vacuum, remove the top and place the bucket
suspended in the bath for 10 ±1 minute.The water in this bath must also be 77°F (25°C).
After 10 minutes are up, record the weight of the sample and bucket in water (D).
After recording this weight, gently pour water from bucket back into water bath, dispose of sample
in bucket (you no longer need the sample). Then place empty bucket back into water bath, leaving it
immersed for 10 ± 1 minute.
Record this weight (B) (this will be the weight in water of the empty bucket).

Calculate the Maximum Specific Gravity (Gmm) using the following equation:
(𝑪 – 𝑨)
Gmm = (𝑪−𝑨) − (𝑫−𝑩)

Where:
A = Weight of Container in air
B = Weight of Container in water
C = Weight of Container and Sample in air
D = Weight of Container and Sample in water

IV. Air Void Content:

Air void content is calculated from the mixture bulk and theoretical maximum specific gravity:
𝑮𝒎𝒎−𝑮𝒎𝒃
VA = 100( )
𝑮𝒎𝒎

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Where:
VA = Air void content, volume %
Gmb = Bulk specific gravity of compacted mixture
Gmm = Theoretical maximum specific gravity of loose mixture

D) Marshall and Flow Value Testing Procedure:

In conducting the stability test, the specimen is immersed in a bath of water at a temperature of 60° ±
1°C for a period of 30 to 40 minutes. It is then placed in the Marshall Stability testing machine and
loaded at a constant rate of deformation of 5 mm per minute until failure. The total maximum in kN
(that causes failure of the specimen) is taken as Marshall Stability. The stability value so obtained is
corrected for volume (Table 10.2). The total amount of deformation is units of 0.25 mm that occurs at
maximum load is recorded as Flow Value. The total time between removing the specimen from the
bath and completion of the test should not exceed 30 seconds. The procedure is illustrated in details
as follows:
1) Bring the specimen prepared with asphalt cement or tar to the specified temperature by
immersing in the water bath 30 to 40 minutes or placing in the oven for 2 hours.
2) Maintain the bath or oven temperature at 60∓ 1.0° C (140∓1.8F) for the asphalt cement
specimen and 37.8∓ 1.0°C (100∓1.8F) for tar specimens.
3) Bring the specimens prepared with asphalt cutback to the specified temperature by placing
them in the air bath for a minimum of 2 hr.
4) Maintain the air (water) bath temperature at 25∓1.0°C (77∓1.8F).
5) Thoroughly clean the guide rods and the inside surfaces of the test heads prior to making the
test, and lubricate the guide rods so that the upper test head slides freely over them.
6) The testing head temperature shall be maintained between 21.1 to 37.8°C, using a water bath
when required.
7) Remove the specimen from the bath, oven, or air bath, and place in the lower segment of the
breaking head, place the upper segment of the breaking head on the specimen, and place the
complete assembly in position on the testing machine.

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 8) Place the flow meter in position (if used) over one of the guide rods and adjust the flow meter
to zero while holding the sleeve firmly against the upper segment of the breaking head.
9) Hold the flow meter sleeve firmly against the upper segment of the breaking head while the
test load is being applied.
10) Apply the load to the specimen by means of the constant rate of movement of the load jack or
testing machine head of 2 in (50.8mm) per minute until the maximum load is reached and the
load decreases as indicated by the dial.
11) Record the maximum load noted on the testing machine or converted from the maximum
micrometer dial reading.
12) Release the flow meter sleeve or note the micrometer dial reading, where used, the instant
maximum load begins to decrease.
13) Note and record the indicated flow valve or equivalent units in hundredths of an inch (twenty-
five hundredths of a millimeter) if a micrometer dial is used to measure the flow.
14) The total elapsed time for the test from removal of the test specimen from the water bath to the
maximum load determination shall be exceeding 30 seconds.
15) Record the Marshall stability (maximum load) and the Marshall flow (deformation when the
maximum load begins to decrease in units of 0.25 mm or hundredths of an inch). In some
machines the maximum load and the flow values are read from the ring dynamometer and the
flowmeter, respectively.
16) If the specimen height is other than 2.5-in., multiply the stability value by a correction factor
(refer to Table 10.2 “Stability Correlation Ratios” for details).

3) Results and Calculations:

Following results and analysis is performed on the data obtained from the experiments.

A. Calculations of specific gravity, asphalt absorption, voids in mineral aggregate and air void
in paving mixture.

8.1 Calculation of Total Bulk specific gravity of aggregate (Gbam):

Since the aggregate mixture consists of different fractions of coarse aggregate, fine aggregate and
mineral filler with different specific gravities, the bulk specific gravity of the total aggregate in the
paving mixture is given as:
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Where,
Gbam = bulk specific gravity of aggregates in paving
mixtures.
Pca, Pfa, Pmf = percent by weight of coarse aggregate, fine
aggregate, and mineral filler in paving mixture.
Gbca, Gbfa, Gbmf = bulk specific gravities of coarse aggregate, fine
aggregate, and mineral filler, respectively.
8.2 Calculation of Effective Specific Gravity of aggregate (Gse):
100 − 𝑃𝑎
𝐺𝑠𝑒 = 100 𝑃
− 𝐺𝑎
𝐺𝑚𝑚 𝑏

𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑃𝑎 = 𝑎𝑠𝑝ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑡 % 𝑏𝑦 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑖𝑥𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒

𝐺𝑚𝑚 = 𝑚𝑎𝑥𝑖𝑚𝑢𝑛 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑝𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑚𝑖𝑥𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒 (𝑛𝑜 𝑎𝑖𝑟 𝑣𝑜𝑖𝑑𝑠)

𝐺𝑏 = 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑖𝑓𝑖𝑐 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑖𝑡𝑦 𝑜𝑓 𝑎𝑠𝑝ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑡

8.3 Maximum Specific gravity of mixture (𝑮𝒎𝒎 ):
100
𝐺𝑚𝑚 = 𝑃𝑠 𝑃
+ 𝐺𝑎
𝐺𝑠𝑒 𝑏

𝑊ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑃𝑠 = 𝑎𝑔𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑡𝑒 % 𝑏𝑦 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑚𝑖𝑥𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑒

Pa = asphalt % by total weight of mixture
Gse = effective specific gravity of aggregate
Gb = specific gravity of asphalt
8.4 Asphalt absorption (Pba):
𝐺𝑠𝑒 − 𝐺𝑠𝑏
𝑃𝑏𝑎 = 100 𝐺𝑏
𝐺𝑠𝑏 𝐺𝑠𝑒
𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 𝑃𝑏𝑎 = 𝑎𝑏𝑠𝑜𝑟𝑏𝑒𝑑 𝑎𝑠𝑝ℎ𝑎𝑙𝑡, % 𝑏𝑦 𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑎𝑔𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑡𝑒
8.5 Effective Asphalt Content of a mixture ( Pbe):
𝑃𝑏𝑎
𝑃𝑏𝑒 = 𝑃𝑎 − 𝑃
100 𝑠
Where Ps = aggregate % by total weight of mixture

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 8.6 Percent voids in compacted mineral aggregate (VMA):

The percent voids in mineral aggregate (VMA) is the percentage of void spaces between the granular
particles in the compacted paving mixture, including the air voids and the volume occupied by the
effective asphalt content:

𝐺𝑏𝑐𝑚 𝑃𝑠
VMA = 100 - 𝐺𝑏𝑎𝑚
Where,
VMA = percent voids in mineral aggregates.
Gbcm= bulk specific gravity of compacted specimen
Gbam= bulk specific gravity of aggregate.
Ps= aggregate percent by weight of total paving mixture.

Or,
𝐺 100
VAM = 100 - 𝐺 𝑏𝑐𝑚 𝑥 100
𝑏𝑎𝑚 100+𝑃𝑎
If mix composition is determined by % weight of aggregate.

8.7 Percent air voids in compacted mixture (Pav) , also VTM Voids in Total Mix:

Percent air voids is the ratio (expressed as a percentage) between the volume of the air voids between
the coated particles and the total volume of the mixture.

Where,
Pav= percent air voids in compacted mixture
Gmp= maximum specific gravity of the compacted paving mixture
Gbcm= bulk specific gravity of the compacted mixtures

B. DETERMINATION OF OPTIMUM BINDER CONTENT:

Five separate smooth curves are drawn (Figure 10.4) with percent of asphalt on x-axis and the
following on y-axis.
1) unit weight

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 2) Marshall stability
3) Flow
4) VMA
5) Voids in total mix (Pav)

Optimum binder content is selected as the average binder content for maximum density, maximum
stability and specified percent air voids in the total mix. Thus

Where,
B0 = optimum Bitumen content.
B1 = % asphalt content at maximum unit weight.
B2 = % asphalt content at maximum stability.
B3 = % asphalt content at specified percent air voids in the total mix.
C. EVALUATION AND ADJUSTMENT OF MIX DESIGN:

The overall objective of the mix design is to determine an optimum blend of different components that
will satisfy the requirements of the given specifications (Table 10.4). This mixture should have:
1. Adequate amount of asphalt to ensure a durable pavement.
2. Adequate mix stability to prevent unacceptable distortion and displacement when
traffic load is applied.
3. Adequate voids in the total compacted mixture to permit a small amount of
compaction when traffic load is applied without bleeding and loss of stability.
4. Adequate workability to facilitate placement of the mix without segregation.
If the mix design for the optimum binder content does not satisfy all the requirements of specifications
(Table 10.4), it is necessary to adjust the original blend of aggregates. The trial mixes can be adjusted
by using the following guidelines.
1. If low voids: The voids can be increased by adding more coarse aggregates.
2. If high voids: Increase the amount of mineral filler in the mix.
3. If low stability: This condition suggests low quality of aggregates. The quality of
aggregates should be improved. (use different aggregate or use cement coated
aggregate)
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4) Report: The Data Sheets 1,2, 3, 4 and 5, besides the report summary sheet (page 61/70), at the
end of experiment must be filled.
The report shall include the following information:
1) Type or sample tested (laboratory sample or pavement core specimen).
2) Average maximum load in Pounds-Force (or Newton) of at least three specimens,
corrected when required.
3) Average flow valve, in hundredths of an inch of three specimens.
4) Test temperature.
5) Five separate smooth curves as drawn in Figure 10.4 with percent of asphalt on x-axis
and the following on y-axis of the following mix design components:
1. unit weight
2. Marshall stability
3. Flow
4. VMA
5. Voids in total mix (Pav)
6) Based on the above five curves you draw in (5) above, evaluate the mix design, do
that matches with the requirements stated in 7.C above?
If any of them are not within the required limits, what changes in mix design might
be used to correct the result?

Page 60 of 106
 Table 10.2 Stability Correlation Ratios

Stability x Corrected Ratio = Adjusted Stability

Page 61 of 106
Table 10.3 Typical Aggregate Specifications (varies from project to another)

Table 10.4 Typical Mix Design Specifications

Page 62 of 106
Figure 10.4 Marshal Test, Typical Curves

Page 63 of 106
 Marshal Test
Report Data Sheet Summary
S.No Sieve Size Specification Retained Passing Sample Sample
(Passing) Range (%) Pass On % Passing by Retained
% Weight By weight
(gm) (gm)
1 1" 100
2 3/4" 90-100
3 1/2" 71-90
4 3/8" 56-80
5 #4 35-56
6 #8 23-38
7 #16 13-27
8 #50 5-17
9 #100 4-14
10 #200 2-8
11 Pan
Total 100 1200 gm

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 Marshal Test -Test Data Sheet 1
Mix Type : Aggregate Specific Gravity (Bulk):
Asphalt Type : Course:
Specific Gravity: Fine :
Compaction : Filler :
Aggregate Blend: %CA, %FA, %MF /Normal Maximum Size CA = ʺ
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13)
Weights Stability, LBs

Compact Mix
(grams)

Bulk Volume, cm3

Unit Weight, PCF

%AC
Stab. Flow

/ (7)
Spec. No.

(6) – (5)
By
Group

(6-5)
Bulk S.G.Vol.
3
Corr. 1/100

(4) cm
Sat. Surf. Dry

WGT

(11) x (10)
Measured

Adjusted
In Water

Factor inch
In Air

Mix

I 5.0
5.0
5.0
Average
5.5
II 5.5
5.5
Average
6.0
III 6.0
6.0
Average
6.5
IV 6.5
6.5
Average
7.0
V 7.0
7.0
Average

Page 65 of 106
 Marshal Test
Report Data Sheet 2
Determination of Effective Specific Gravity
1 Weight, g
2 Bulk Specific Gravity
Coarse 3 Bulk Volume, cm3
Aggregate 4 Water Absorption, %
5 Asphalt Absorbed, cm3
6 Effective Volume, cm3
7 Weight, g
8 Bulk Specific Gravity
Fine 9 Bulk Volume, cm3
Aggregate 10 Water Absorption, %
11 Asphalt Absorbed, cm3*
12 Effective Volume, cm3
13 Weight, g
Filler 14 Bulk Specific Gravity
15 Volume, cm3
Asphalt 16 Specific Gravity
17 ∑ 𝑤𝑡
𝐺𝑠𝑒 =
∑ 𝑉𝑜𝑙

*Assume one/half of water absorption

1 1+7+13
Note that, 3= ,and17 =
2 6+12+15

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 Marshal Test
Report Data Sheet 3
Worksheet for analysis of compacted paving mixtures
Mixture Composition, % by weight of Total
Component Specific Gravity
I II III IV
1.Coarse Gbca Pca
2.Fine Gbfa Pfa
3.Filler Gbmf Pmf
4.Total Agg. Ps
5.Asphalt Gb Pa
6.Bulk Sp.Gr. of Total Agg., Gbam
7.Effective Sp.Gr. of Total Agg., Gse
8.Bulk Sp.Gr. Compacted Sample, Gbcm
9.Max. Sp.Gr. Mix., Gmm
10.Absorbed Asphalt, Pba, % by % of Total
Mixture weight
11.Effective Asphalt Content, Pbe
By % of Aggregate Weight
12.VMA in Mix %
13.Air Voids %
Check: Gse > Gbam> Gmm> Gbcm

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 Marshal Test
Report Data Sheet 4
Selection of Optimum Asphalt Content
Test Property Test Value Asphalt Content
(by weight Total Mix)
Maximum Stability , lbs
Maximum Unit Weight, lbs/ft3
Median of Air Void limits
Average = Optimum Asphalt Content:

Marshal Test
Repot Data Sheet 5
Properties at Optimum Asphalt Content
For AC: %
Test Property Value at Optimum Specification Within Spec.
AC Limit, Yes/No
Unit Weight, pcf ---------------- NA
Stability, lbs 500 min.
% Air Voids 3–5
% VMA 16 min.
Flow, 1/100 inch 8 - 18

Report Data Sheet 6

Job Mix Formula (An Example)

% by Weight Mix Quantity / Ton
Material (1)
(1) (2000) x
100

Asphalt 6.2 14.7 gal.

Coarse Aggregate 6.2 806 lbs
CA%- (100 𝑥 𝐶𝐴%) = 40.3

Fine aggregate 6.2 976 lbs

52 – (100 𝑥 52) = 48.8

Mineral Aggregate (Filler) 4.7 94 lbs

Total 100% 2000 lbs (Example)
In the above example take CA = 43%, FA = 52% and FA = 5%
Page 68 of 106
 Experiment No. 10
Measurement of Texture depth by the Sound Patch Method
1. Test Method Reference
(a) Method 7, BS 598 : Part 3 : 1985
(b) Road Note 27 Appendix 1
2. Applications
The road surface texture can be measured by sand patch method. The method is suitable for
bituminous surface course and concrete pavement surface with texture depth greater than
0.25 mm. Accurate sand patch testing cannot be carried out when road surface is sticky or
wet. For new road surface, it is recommended that sand patch test for compliance checking
should be carried out prior to opening to traffic including construction traffic.
3. Apparatus and Material
1. A pair of dividers capable of measuring radii up to 200 mm.
2. A 300 mm ruler.
3. Plastic cylinder of 25 ml volume or preferably a metal cylinder 86 mm internal depth
and 19 mm internal diameter.
4. A flat wooden disc of 64 mm diameter with a hard rubber disc 1.5 mm thick attached to one
face.
A short spigot or dowel is attached to the reverse face to serve as a handle.
5. Sand container or for convenience, small plastic bags to hold a measured amount of
25 ml sand.
6. A soft hand brush.
7. A straight edge knife.
8. Sand of a natural dry type, with a rounded particle shape, complying with the grading
given in the following table:
Grading of Sand
BS Test Sieve (mm) % by Mass passing
0.60 100
0.30 90 to 100
0.15 0 to 15

Grading of Sand for Sand Patch Test

4. Measurement of the average texture depth
a. Measure the surface texture over one or more sections of carriageway lane each 1000 m in
length or the complete carriageway lane where this is less than 1000 m.
b. Make measurement on 50 m lane lengths regularly spaced along the section and covering
not less than one-third of the section tested.
c. On each 50 m lane length, take 10 individual measurements of the texture depth at 5 m
spacing along a diagonal line across the carriageway lane width. Do not take measurements
within 300 mm of the longitudinal edge of the carriageway.

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 d. Where the determination of average texture depth for a section of carriageway lane based
on measurements taken over part of the section is less than that specified, extend the
measurements to cover the complete length of the section and recalculate the average texture
depth.
e. To reduce variability, base determinations of average texture depth on a sufficient number
of measurements. For small schemes it may be practicable to carry out measurements over all
the wearing course or over alternate 50 m lengths covering 50% of the work. Where this
cannot reasonably be done make test measurements over regularly spaced 50 m lengths of
carriageway lane covering not less than one third of the surfacing laid in a lane. On larger
schemes exceeding a kilometre in length, test selected sections of carriageway lane 1000 m
long in the same way. In
all cases base the determination of the average texture depth of a test section on not less than
six sets of 10 individual measurement. The extent of testing carried out will depend upon the
resources available for this work and the standard of compliance with the specification that is
achieved. Make at least one determination per lane for every 5 km or less of carriageway
surfacing.
f. Where measurements are repeated along different diagonals in the same test section the
standard ever (in mm) is 0.4 , n being the number of sets of 10 measurements.
g. If Engineer is confident enough that the average texture depth could lie within a certain
range, the no. of sets of 10 individual measurements could be reduced although a minimum
of 6 sets is recommended.
5. Individual measurement
a. The surface to be measured must be dry and should first be swept with a soft brush.
b. Fill the cylinder with sand; and, taking care not to compact it by any unnecessary
vibration, level the top with a straight edge. (or for convenience, premeasure and put sand
into the small plastic bags at 25 ml each prior to going to site)
c. Pour the sand into a heap on the test surface.
d. In windy conditions, use a tyre or a 3-sided enclosure to surround the sand such that sand
is not easily to be drifted away.
e. Spread the sand over the surface with use of the wooden disc with its face kept flat, in a
circular motion so that the sand is spread into a circular patch with the surface depression
filled to the level of the peaks. Measure either the radii of the dividers on the sand patch or
practically the diameters at every 45° and calculate the mean of the 4 individual diameters (d)
to nearest 1 mm.
6. Report Results
a. Sketch should be prepared.
b. Calculate the texture depth of each individual test to the nearest 0.01 mm from the
following formula;
c. Texture depth (in mm) = 31000
d. Determine and report the average texture depth for each section of carriageway lane tested
and the average of each set of 10 individual measurements.
e. A standard form for recording data is at Appendix.

Page 70 of 106
 Experiment No. 11
SKID RESISTANCE TEST
Using the British Pendulum Tester

2) Objective:
To measure texture depth and skid resistance of a road surface using a British Portable Pendulum Skid
Resistance Tester.
The greater the friction between the slider and the test surface, the more the swing is retarded, and the
larger the BPN reading.

3) Background:

Skidding, i.e. loss of adhesion between a vehicle's tires and the road surface occurs in many road
accidents whether or not it is the actual cause of the accident. Over the years, tire manufacturers have
done a lot of research into different types of rubber and tread patterns to improve the safety of motor
vehicles. Governments have introduced regulations concerning the tread depth and general condition
of the tires.
Highway engineers have also researched ways to improve the skid resistance of road surfaces. Which
can be conducted by using the Pendulum Skid Tester, this tester is portable and can be taken to the
site or used in laboratory experiments. This device simulates the skid resistance offered by a road
surface to a motor car travelling at 50 km/h. It gives a number, being a percentage, somewhat similar
to a coefficient of friction.
With devices to measure skidding resistance, researchers then monitored changes during the life of
road pavements. It was found that skid resistance falls rapidly after a road is opened to traffic but the
rate of deterioration slows down, eventually settling to a constant value. This latter value is dependent
on the surface texture, rock type and traffic volume. Coarse-textured surfaces offer greater resistance
because rainwater drains away better, allowing rubber to stone contact even at reasonably high speed.
Sedimentary rocks (excluding most limestones) are better than igneous or metamorphic rocks. All
mineral particles polish but, with sandstone, the small particles get worn off exposing fresh sharp

Page 71 of 106
crystals to the tires. With igneous rocks, which are tougher, the polished particles remain in place.
Finally, better correlation has been obtained using commercial traffic volumes rather than total traffic.

Standard: ASTM E 303 Measuring Surface Frictional Properties Using the British Pendulum Tester
and British standards BS EN 13036.

4) Apparatus:
1. British Pendulum Tester (BPT) which is shown in Figure 1 below.
2. Rubber sliders: The striking edges of new sliders shall be square, clean cut and free from
contamination. Avoid handling the surface of the sliders at all times. The sliders shall be
bonded to a rigid backing plate. The backing plate and slider shall have a combined mass
of 35 ± 5 g. Between uses the sliders shall be stored in talcum power in the dark at room
temperature. The sliders should be discarded when they are more than twelve months old.
3. Thermometer - capable of determining surface temperature in the range of 0° C to 60°
C, readable to at least 1° C.
4. Gauge - a rule marked at 0, 125mm and 127 mm to measure the contact path length.
5. Water spray bottle - containing clean water.
6. Brush for sweeping road.

Page 72 of 106
 Graduated
Scale

Figure1 Pendulum Skid Resistance Tester

5) British Pendulum Skid Resistance Test Procedure:

a) Preparation of BPT (Zero check):

1. Sweep the test site to ensure it is free from loose particles.

2. Set the apparatus (Figure 1) on a dry road surface so that the slider will swing in the direction
of traffic flow and level the base screws.
3. Set the base of the BPT level using the spirit level and leveling screws on the frame. On sloping
sites level the BPT in its working position using only the leveling screws.
4. Raise the head of the BPT by releasing the locking knob at the rear and turning the height
control knob until the pendulum arm and foot can swing clear of the pavement surface. Lock
the head in place at this position.

Page 73 of 106
5. Raise the pendulum arm to a horizontal position on the right side of the BPT and secure it in
place with the release catch mechanism. Rotate the pointer anti-clockwise to its stop position
parallel with the pendulum arm.
6. Check the zero setting by releasing the pendulum arm with the release catch to allow the arm
to swing through an arc and then catching the pendulum arm on its return swing. Observe the
pointer reading and return both the arm and pointer to the original release position. The zero
setting can be adjusted using the friction adjustment rings (see Figure 1). If the pointer has
swung past the zero position screw the rings a little more tightly. If it has not reached the zero
position unscrew the rings slightly. If windy conditions affect the zero setting use a wind guard.
7. Repeat Procedure 6 (above) until the pendulum arm carries the pointer to the zero position.
8. Allow the pendulum arm to hang freely and then place the center of the contact path length
gauge adjacent to the striking edge of the slider. The gauge should be placed parallel to and
offset from the path of travel of the slider.
9. Move the pendulum arm to the left of vertical and at the same time lower the head of the BPT.
The trailing edge of the slider should contact the pavement surface adjacent to the zero mark
on the length gauge. Secure the head of the BPT in this position. Lift the slider clear of the
surface using the lifting handle and move the pendulum arm to the right of vertical. Release
the lifting handle and gently lower the leading edge of the slider on to the surface. The contact
path length between the points of contact of each edge of the slider should be between 125mm
and 127mm. If this has not been achieved adjust the height of the head and/or the position of
the gauge to obtain the correct contact path length. After the final adjustment ensure the head
of the BPT is locked.

b) Operation of BPT:
1. Secure the pendulum arm in the horizontal position and rotate the pointer anti-clockwise to its
stop position parallel with the pendulum arm. Spray the pavement surface and slider with
water, push the release button and allow the pendulum arm to swing freely through its arc.
Catch the arm on its return swing before the slider touches the road surface. Record the reading

Page 74 of 106
 indicated by the pointer. Return the arm and pointer to their original position, keeping the slider
clear of the pavement surface by using the lifting handle.
2. Repeat Procedure (b.1) above, wetting the surface between swings, until the results of five
successive swings do not vary by more than three scale units. Which mean, they do not differ
by more than three units. If the range is greater than this, repeat swings until three successive
readings are constant; record this value.
3. Determine and record the temperature (t) of the wetted pavement surface to the nearest 1°C.

6) Recording:
Record, where applicable, the following information about a test site:
a) Site location
b) Date of test
c) Type of surfacing
d) Aggregate type and surface texture (NOTE: The texture depth of the pavement
surface is usually measured in conjunction with skid resistance)
e) Traffic density and speed limit
f) Road geometry, eg. grade, crossfall, bend, roundabout, etc.

7) Calculations:
a) For each test site, calculate the mean skid resistance value (SRV) from the
five results obtained in Procedure 5 (b).
b) For each test site calculate the corrected skid resistance value using the
formula:
𝑺𝑹𝑽
𝑺𝑹𝑽𝟐𝟎 =
𝟏 − [ 𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟓𝟐𝟓 (𝒕 − 𝟐𝟎)]

Where:
𝑆𝑅𝑉20= mean skid resistance value corrected to 20° C
SRV = mean skid resistance value
t = temperature of wetted pavement surface in °C.
Page 75 of 106
8) Results and Report:

The skid resistance value (SRV) is the mean of five readings or the constant of three readings
as stated above. As the stiffness of the rubber slider will vary with temperature a correction has
to be made if the temperature is not 20oC. Use the above formula to calculate the corrected skid
resistance value to the nearest whole number.
9) Discussion and Conclusions:
a. Describe the site and the nature of the road surface, i.e. material state of wear, etc.
b. Report the temperature-corrected skid resistance value (SRV) and comment on
suitability of this value for the current use of the road (see Table 9.1).
c. According to the measured corrected skid resistance value, does the road potentially
slippery based on Table. 9.2?

Table 9.1 Suggested minimum values of ‘skid resistance’ SRV

Table 9.2: SRV with potential for slip

Page 76 of 106
 Experiment No.12

Quantitative Extraction of Bitumen from Bituminous Paving Mixtures

1) Introduction:

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. Asphalt Content is a mixture property that must be evaluated in asphalt concrete mixtures.
The test can be used to determine the asphalt content in hot-mixed paving mixtures and pavement
samples directly cored from road.
The advantages of the extraction test are that it allows determination of the aggregate gradation (sieve
analysis) of the mixture; also it can be used for specification acceptance, service evaluation, and in
control and research. The disadvantages of the extraction test are that the solvent used is hazardous
and difficult to dispose, and the results obtained by this method may be affected by the age of the
material tested, with older samples tending to yield slightly lower bitumen content. Best quantitative
results are obtained when the test is made on mixtures and pavements shortly after their preparation.

2) Summary of Test Methods

The paving mixture is extracted with trichloroethylene, normal Propyl Bromide, or methylene chloride
using the extraction equipment applicable to the particular method. The bitumen content is calculated
by difference from the mass of the extracted aggregate, moisture content, and mineral matter in the
extract. The bitumen content is expressed as mass percent of moisture-free mixtures.
3) Objectives:
 To monitor asphalt content because 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, because it really affects mixture properties that need to be controlled.

Page 77 of 106
  Obtained aggregates from this test can be used for gradation analysis to check quality of the
produced mixes.

4) Standard test method:

ASTM D 2172

5) Equipments & Apparatus:

1) Oven, capable of maintaining the temperature at 110∓5°C (230∓9°F).
2) Pan, flat.
3) Balance.
4) Hot Plate, electric 700-W.
5) Graduate cylinder, 1000 or 2000-mL capacity.
6) Optional small-mouth graduate, 100-mL capacity.
7) Analytical Balance.
8) Container for catching the solvent.
9) Solvent as trichloroethylene or diesel
10) Extraction apparatus: consisting of a bowl approximating that shown in the below figure, and
an apparatus in which the bowl may be revolved at controlled variable speeds up to 3600 rpm.
The speed may be controlled manually or with a preset speed control. The apparatus should be
provided with a container for catching the solvent thrown from the bowl and a drain for
removing the solvent.
11) Filter rings, felt or paper, to fit the rim of the bowl.
12) Low-ash paper filter rings may be used in place of felt filter rings. Such filter rings shall be
consist of low ash filter paper stock 1.05∓0.005 thick. The small base weight of the paper shall
be 330∓30lb for a pack (500 sheets – 25 by 38 in).

Page 78 of 106
6) Sampling:
a) The samples prepared on Marshal Test will be used in this experiment to determine the asphalt
content and compare with that used in Marshal Test mix design.
b) It should be understood that the samples could be obtained from a constructed road in
accordance to Method ASTM D 979. Always asphalt core machine is used for this purpose.
c) 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+-5°C only until it can be handled or mixed.

7) Procedure:

1. Equipment Preparation
 Ensure extractor bowl, hand tools and sample containers are cleaned of all residual asphalt and
aggregate materials and dry before commencing the test. Check extractor rpm to ensure that a
maximum of 3600 rpm is being achieved.

2. Sample Preparation
 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.

Page 79 of 106
  Sample size will depend on the extractor bowl size. Larger samples will give more accurate
results. Weigh the asphalt mix and record as "weight of asphalt mix".

3. Test Procedure
1) Dry the empty centrifuge bowl with the filter paper to a constant weight, and record this weight
in the data sheet.
2) Dry the test sample at 110°C to remove the moisture from it.
3) Spread the asphalt mix sample evenly in the bowl. The test portion between 650g to 2500g.
4) Cover the sample with the specified solvent such as trichloroethylene, benzene,
trichloroethane, methylene chloride, or diesel and allow sufficient time for the solvent to
disintegrate the test portion (not over 1 h).
5) Allow the material to soak for 5 minutes (it can be more long time but not over 1 hour) before
the first centrifuge is begun.
6) Place the bowl containing the test portion and solvent in the extraction apparatus.
7) Rotate the bowl back and forth gently by hand to distribute solvent and asphalt mix evenly in
the bowl. Record the weight of test portion and solvent as W1.
8) Cover the test sample, fit the filter paper on the bowl, clamps the cover on the bowl tightly and
place a beaker under the drain to collect the extract.
9) 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.
10) Stop the machine, add 200 ml of the solvent, and repeat the centrifuge procedure.
11) The procedure should be repeated until the extracted effluent has a light yellow straw color.
This is usually accomplished in 4 to 6 washings.
12) Collect the extract and the washings in a suitable graduated cylinder.
Page 80 of 106
 13) Dry the bowl with the filter paper to a constant weight in an oven at 110 + 5°C.
14) 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.
The mass of the extracted aggregate = mass of aggregate in the pan + the increase in mass of the
filter rings (W2)
15) It is important to notice that the extract material contains asphalt and fine, the mass of fines
can be determined by one of the following methods:
a) Ashing method
b) Centrifuge method
c) Volumetric method
The amount of such fine is small and can be neglected.

8) Data & Analysis:

Volume of solvent used in the experiment (cm3) =

Weight of empty dried extraction bowl before using =

Weight of extraction bowl +dried aggregate after extraction=

Difference (W2) =

Weight of filter disk before extraction=

Weight of filter disk after extraction =

Difference (W3) =

9) Calculation in bitumen content:

Page 81 of 106
10) Discussion and Conclusion:
a) Does the percentage of the extracted bitumen content matches with the one used in the sample
preparation in Marshal Test? If not, why not? What are the sources of discrepancies and errors,
if exist?
b) Explain the reason of “Start the centrifuge revolving slowly and gradually increase the speed
to a maximum of 3600 rpm”; can we start at a maximum speed 3600 rpm when starting the
machine? If no, why not? Explain.

Page 82 of 106
 Experiment No.13

Standard Test Method for

Effect of Water on Compressive Strength of Compacted

Bituminous Mixtures (Loss of stability)

1. Scope

This test method covers measurement of the loss of compressive strength resulting from the action of
water on compacted bituminous mixtures containing asphalt cement. A numerical index of reduced
compressive strength is obtained by comparing the compressive strength of freshly molded and
cured specimens with the compressive strength of duplicate specimens that have been immersed in
water under prescribed conditions.

2. Referenced ASTM D1075 -94

3. Apparatus

 One or more automatically controlled water baths shall be provided for immersing the pecimens.
The baths shall be of sufficient size to permit total immersion of the test specimens. They shall
be so designed and equipped as to permit accurate and uniform control of the immersion
temperature within 61°C (1.8°F). They shall be constructed of or lined with copper, stainless
steel, or other nonreactive material. The water used for the wet storage of the specimens shall be
either distilled or otherwise treated to eliminate electrolytes and the bath shall be emptied,
cleaned, and refilled with fresh water for each series of tests.
 A manually or automatically controlled water bath also shall be provided for bringing the
immersed specimens to the temperature of 25 6 1°C (77 6 1.8°F) for the compression test. Any
convenient pan or tank may be used provided it is of sufficient size to permit total immersion of
the specimens.
 A balance and a water bath with suitable accessory equipment will be required for weighing the
test specimens in air and in water in order to determine their densities, the amount of absorption,
and any changes in specimen volume resulting from the immersion test.

Page 83 of 106
 A supply of flat transfer plates of glass or other non-reactive material will be required. One of
these plates shall be kept under each of the specimens during the immersion period and during
subsequent handling, except when weighing and testing, in order to prevent breakage or istortion
of the specimens.

4- Test Specimens

At least six 101.6 by 101.6-mm (4 by 4-in.) cylindrical specimens shall be made for each test. The
procedures described in Test Method D 1074 shall be followed in preparing the loose mixtures and
in molding and curing the test specimens.

5. Determination of Bulk Specific Gravity of Test Specimens

Allow each set of six test specimens to cool for at least 2 h after removal from the curing oven described in Test
Method D 1074. Determine the bulk specific gravity of each specimen in accordance with the procedure
(thoroughly dry specimens) and calculation (bulk specific gravity) sections of Test Method D 2726.

6. Procedure

1- Sort each set of six test specimens into two groups of three specimens each so that the average bulk specific
gravity of the specimens in Group 1 is essentially the same as for Group 2. Test the specimens in Group 1 as
described in.2. Test the specimens in Group 2 as described in.3 unless the alternative procedure described in.4 is
specified.

2- Group I—Bring the test specimens to the test temperature 25 6 1°C (77 6 1.8°F), by storing them in an air

bath maintained at the test temperature for not less than 4 h and determine their compressive strengths in
accordance with Test Method D 1074.

3- Group 2—Immerse the test specimens in water for 24 h at 60 6 1°C (140 6 1.8°F). Transfer them to the second
water bath maintained at 25 6 1°C (77 6 1.8°F) and store them there for 2 h. Determine the compressive strength of
the specimens in accordance with Test Method D 1074.

4- Group 2, Alternative Procedure—Immerse the test specimens in water for four days at 49 6 1°C (120.2 6 1.8°F).
Transfer them to the second water bath maintained at 25 6 1°C (77 6 1.8°F) and store them there for 2 h. Determine
the compressive strength of the specimens in accordance with Test Method D 1074.

7. Calculation

1- Calculate the numerical index of resistance of bituminous mixtures to the detrimental effect of water as the
percentage of the original strength that is retained after the immersion period as follows:

Index of retained strength, % = (S2/S1) x 100 %

where: S1 = compressive strength of dry specimens (Group 1), and S2 = compressive strength of immersed
specimens (Group 2).
Page 84 of 106
Page 85 of 106
 Test No. 1
Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates
ASTM C136 – 01
AASHTO T 27
Type of Material:-
Date:-

Sample number Sample weight (g)

Project Sample depth
Location Job number

Sieve No. Open Mass retained % % total % total

(mm) retained passing retained
3" 75
2" 50
1.5" 37.5
1" 25
3/4" 19
1/2" 12.5
3/8" 9.5
#4 4.75
#8 2.36
# 16 1.18
# 30 0.600
# 50 0.300
#100 0.150
#200 0.075
Pane -
Total -
 THE TEST RESULTS RELATE ONLY TO THE ITEMS TESTED & BROUUGHT BY CLIME
 TEST REPORT IS ONLY VAILD WITH Z.U.J STAMP & SIGNATURES.
 THE TEST WERE PERFORMED ACCORDING TO YOUR REQUEST.
Tested by: Cheeked by: Division Head:

Page 86 of 106
 Test No. 2
Specific Gravity and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate

(AASHTO T85)
Type of Material:-
Date:-

Sample number
Project Sample depth
Location Job number

Trail Number
Oven dry sample weight (g) [A]
Sample SSD weight (g) [B]
Weight SSD sample in water (g) [ C ]
Bulk Sp. Gr. (Dry) = A/(B-C)
Bulk Sp. Gr. (SSD) = B/(B -C)
Apparent Sp. Gr. = A/(A-C)
%Abs. = [(B-A)/A]*100%
Average

Tested by: Cheeked by:

Page 87 of 106
 Test No. 3
Specific Gravity and Absorption of Fine Aggregate

(AASHTO T84)

Type of Material:-
Date:-

Sample number
Project Sample depth
Location Job number

Flash Number
Empty flask weight (g)
Sample SSD weight (G) [D]
Weight of flask & SSD sample & water (g) [ C ]
Oven dry sample weight (G) [A]
Weight of flask & water (g) [B]
Bulk Sp. Gr. (Dry) = A/(B+ D -C)
Bulk Sp. Gr. (SSD) = D/(B+ D -C)
Apparent Sp. Gr. = A/(B+A-C)
%Abs. = [(D -A)/A]*100%

Tested by: Cheeked by:

Page 88 of 106
 Test No. 4
Penetration Test
ASTM D 5-10
AASHTO T 49-06
Type of Material:-

Date:-

Sample number
Project Sample depth
Location Job number

Type of material
Dial Gauge Reading Penetration Value (mm)
Trail No.
(1/10 mm)
1

5
Final Penetration Value (0.1 mm) = Average of the
readings:

Lab. Supervisor UU Student Name Student number

t

Page 89 of 106
 Test No. 5

Softening Point Test

ASTM D36- 95
AASHTOT53- 06
Type of Material:-
Date:-

Sample number
Project Sample depth
Location Job number

Grade of Bitumen :
Softening Point (°C) Average Softening point =
= the temperature at (Average of the readings)
Ball No.
which the ball (°C)
touches the bottom
L

Lab. Supervisor S tudent Name

U S St dent number
u

Page 90 of 106
 Test No. 6
Flash and Fire Point Test
ASTM D92- 99
AASHTOT48- 96
Type of Material:-
Date:-

Sample number
Project Sample depth
Location Job number

Grade of Bitumen :

Flash Point (°C)

Fire Point (°C)

Barometric Pressure, mm Hg

Corrected Flash Point

Corrected Fire Point

Lab. Supervisor UU Student Name Student number

t

Page 91 of 106
 Test No. 7
Ductility Test
ASTM D 113-99
AASHTO T 51-06
Type of Material:-
Date:-

Sample number
Project Sample depth
Location Job number

Grade of Bitumen
Ductility Reading, cm Average Reading, cm
Sample No.
25°C, 5cm/min
1

Lab. Supervisor UU Student Name U Student Number

Page 92 of 106
 Test No. 8

Density of Semi-Solid Bituminous Materials

(Pycnometer Method)

ASTM D-70

Type of Material:-
Date:-

Sample number
Project Sample depth
Location Job number

SAMPLE

Weight of empty pycnometer with stopper, A

Weight of pycnometer + stopper + water , B

Weight of water = ( B – A ) , E

Weight of pycnometer + stopper + asphalt ,C

Weight of pycnometer + stopper + asphalt + water, D

Relative density = (C-A ) / [ ( B – A ) - ( D - C ) ]

Density of water at 25 0 C, γw (Kg/m3)

Density = specific gravity * γw (Kg/m3)

Lab. Supervisor tudent Name

U S St dent number
u

Page 93 of 106
 Test No. 9

Marshall mix design

Report Data Sheet Summary
S.No Sieve Size Specification Retained Passing Sample Sample
(Passing) Range (%) Pass On % Passing by Retained
% Weight By weight
(gm) (gm)
1 1" 100
2 3/4" 90-100
3 1/2" 71-90
4 3/8" 56-80
5 #4 35-56
6 #8 23-38
7 #16 13-27
8 #50 5-17
9 #100 4-14
10 #200 2-8
11 Pan
Total 100 1200 gm

Page 94 of 106
 Marshal Test -Test Data Sheet 1
Mix Type : Aggregate Specific Gravity (Bulk):
Asphalt Type : Course:
Specific Gravity: Fine :
Compaction : Filler :
Aggregate Blend: %CA, %FA, %MF /Normal Maximum Size CA = ʺ
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13)
Weights Stability, LBs

Compact Mix
(grams)

Bulk Volume, cm3

Unit Weight, PCF

%AC
Stab. Flow

/ (7)
Spec. No.

(6) – (5)
By
Group

(6-5)
Bulk S.G.Vol.
3
Corr. 1/100

(4) cm
Sat. Surf. Dry

WGT

(11) x (10)
Measured

Adjusted
In Water

Factor inch
In Air

Mix

I 5.0
5.0
5.0
Average
5.5
II 5.5
5.5
Average
6.0
III 6.0
6.0
Average
6.5
IV 6.5
6.5
Average
7.0
V 7.0
7.0
Average

Page 95 of 106
 Marshal Test
Report Data Sheet 2
Determination of Effective Specific Gravity
1 Weight, g
2 Bulk Specific Gravity
Coarse 3 Bulk Volume, cm3
Aggregate 4 Water Absorption, %
5 Asphalt Absorbed, cm3
6 Effective Volume, cm3
7 Weight, g
8 Bulk Specific Gravity
Fine 9 Bulk Volume, cm3
Aggregate 10 Water Absorption, %
11 Asphalt Absorbed, cm3*
12 Effective Volume, cm3
13 Weight, g
Filler 14 Bulk Specific Gravity
15 Volume, cm3
Asphalt 16 Specific Gravity
17 ∑ 𝑤𝑡
𝐺𝑠𝑒 =
∑ 𝑉𝑜𝑙

*Assume one/half of water absorption

1 1+7+13
Note that, 3= ,and17 =
2 6+12+15

Page 96 of 106
 Marshal Test
Report Data Sheet 3
Worksheet for analysis of compacted paving mixtures
Mixture Composition, % by weight of Total
Component Specific Gravity
I II III IV
1.Coarse Gbca Pca
2.Fine Gbfa Pfa
3.Filler Gbmf Pmf
4.Total Agg. Ps
5.Asphalt Gb Pa
6.Bulk Sp.Gr. of Total Agg., Gbam
7.Effective Sp.Gr. of Total Agg., Gse
8.Bulk Sp.Gr. Compacted Sample, Gbcm
9.Max. Sp.Gr. Mix., Gmm
10.Absorbed Asphalt, Pba, % by % of Total
Mixture weight
11.Effective Asphalt Content, Pbe
By % of Aggregate Weight
12.VMA in Mix %
13.Air Voids %
Check: Gse > Gbam> Gmm> Gbcm

Page 97 of 106
 Marshal Test
Report Data Sheet 4
Selection of Optimum Asphalt Content
Test Property Test Value Asphalt Content
(by weight Total Mix)
Maximum Stability , lbs
Maximum Unit Weight, lbs/ft3
Median of Air Void limits
Average = Optimum Asphalt Content:

Marshal Test
Repot Data Sheet 5
Properties at Optimum Asphalt Content
For AC: %
Test Property Value at Optimum Specification Within Spec.
AC Limit, Yes/No
Unit Weight,
Stability,
% Air Voids
% VMA
Flow, 0.25 mm

Report Data Sheet 6

Job Mix Formula (An Example)

% by Weight Mix Quantity / Ton
Material (1)
(1) (2000) x
100

Asphalt
Coarse Aggregate
Fine aggregate
Mineral Aggregate (Filler)
Total
In the above example take CA = %, FA = % and FA = %

Page 98 of 106
 Test No. 10

Measurement of Texture depth by the Sound Patch Method

Page 99 of 106
 Test No. 11

Skid resistance test

BS EN 13036

Type of Material:-
Date:-

Sample number
Project Sample depth
Location Job number

Trail No. Skid resistance value (SRV)

SRV.ave

SRV@20*

t=

SRV@20 = SRV.ave / {1-.00525 (t-20)}

Lab. Supervisor tudent Name

U S St dent number
u

Page 100 of 106

 Test No. 13

Extraction of asphalt

Type of Material:-
Date:-

Sample number
Project Sample depth
Location Job number

Weight of test sample ( Kg )

Weight of ignited sample ( Kg )
Bitumen content ( AC% )

Page 101 of 106

 Weight of aggregate (gm)

our choice \ (mid of

spec.) % passing
Specification

% Retaining
% passing
Sieve size Asphalt cement (% by total weight of mix)
%AC

In. mm 4 4.5 5 5.5 6 6.5

1 25 100 100 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0

¾” 19 90-100 95 5 57.6 57.3 57.0 56.7 56.4 56.1

½” 12.5 71-90 81 14 161.3 160.4 159.6 158.8 157.9 157.1

3/8” 9.5 56-80 68 13 149.8 149.0 148.2 147.4 146.6 145.9

#4 4.75 35-56 46 22 253.4 252.1 250.8 249.5 248.2 246.8

#8 2.36 23-38 31 15 172.8 171.9 171.0 170.1 169.2 168.3

#16 1.28 13-27 20 11 126.7 126.1 125.4 124.7 124.1 123.4

#50 0.300 5-17 11 9 103.7 103.1 102.6 102.1 101.5 101.0

#100 0.150 4-14 9 2 23.0 22.9 22.8 22.7 22.6 22.4

#200 0.075 2-8 5 4 46.1 45.8 45.6 45.4 45.1 44.9

Pan (filler) 5 57.6 57.3 57.0 56.7 56.4 56.1

Weight of total mix (gm)) 1200 1200 1200 1200 1200 1200

Weight of aggregate (gm) 1152 1145 1140 1136 1128 1122

Weight of asphalt (gm) 48 54 60 66 72 78

Weight of aggregate needed for one mold for different percentage of AC

Page 102 of 106

Page 103 of 106
 LABORATORY SAFETY GUIDELINES

1. All procedures which need to be conducted after-hours need to be

reviewed for hazards and must be with the supervision of Lab
teacher
2. Know location of all exits, evacuation route, first aid kit.
3. Wear approved protection (safety glasses, or goggles) at all times in
the laboratory and wear a lab coat.

Page 104 of 106

4. Shoes must completely cover the foot. No sandals or crocs are
allowed.
5. Long hair must be tied back, and all loose clothing or dangling
jewelry must be secured or removed while in the laboratory.

6. No food or drink of any kind in the laboratory.

7. All aisles and work space must be kept clear of clutter. All exits, fire
extinguishers, electrical disconnects and eye washes must remain
accessible at all times
8. All equipment guards must remain in place.
9. All chemical storage rules must be observed at all times. All
chemicals must remain closed until used, and all chemicals must be
marked with substance name, hazard information, concentration,
date of creation, and person responsible.

Page 105 of 106

 ‫تعليمات السالمة في المختبر‬
‫يجب ارتداء المعدات الوقائية الالزمة (كالقفازات ‪ ،‬والنظارات والمعاطف الواقية) في أوقات العمل‬ ‫‪‬‬
‫والتجارب‪.‬‬
‫يجب ترك الممرات العامة والطرق المؤدية إلى أبواب الخروج والطوارئ خالية اثناء التواجد قي المختبر‪.‬‬ ‫‪‬‬
‫يمنع التدخين وتناول األطعمة والمشروبات بصورة قطعية في المختبر‪.‬‬ ‫‪‬‬
‫يتم العمل في المختبر بطريقة مرتبة ونظامية وعدم ترك طاولة العمل ملوثة بالنفايات والمعدات المستعملة‬ ‫‪‬‬
‫يجب إجراء التنظيف بعد كل مرحلة من مراحل التجربة وغسل األدوات واألواني المستخدمة قبل تركها‬ ‫‪‬‬
‫للتنظيف النهائي‪.‬‬

‫يجب عدم ترك أية تجربة تحت اإلجراء ومغادرة المختبر اال بعد استشارة المهندس المشرف المسؤول ‪.‬‬ ‫‪‬‬
‫عدم المزح او التدافع او الجري مطلقا في المختبرات أو في الممرات ‪.‬‬ ‫‪‬‬
‫عدم تشغيل أي جهاز كهربائي (مروحة ‪ ،‬خالط … الخ) قبل أن تتأكد من أنها لن تسبب أذى ألحد العاملين‬ ‫‪‬‬
‫أو الطالب‪.‬‬

‫استعمال أدوات ومعدات التجارب في األغراض المخصصة من أجلها فقط وتحت اشراف المهندس‬ ‫‪‬‬
‫المسؤول‪.‬‬

‫يجب على الطالب ان يكون ملما بأماكن مفاتيح التحكم الرئيسية للكهرباء في المختبر وأماكن قواطع‬ ‫‪‬‬
‫وصمامات الماء واالطفاء‪.‬‬

‫يجب التعامل مع المواد القابلة لالشتعال تحت شافطات األبخرة وفي مكان متجدد الهواء ‪.‬‬ ‫‪‬‬
‫يمنع منعا باتا التدخين أو استخدام اللهب المكشوف عند تسرب المادة الملتهبه ‪.‬‬ ‫‪‬‬
‫يجب ارتداء االحذية المناسبة للعمل بالمختبرات على أن تغطي األحذية القدم تماما وال يسمح بارتداء‬ ‫‪‬‬
‫الصنادل أو االحذية المكشوفة‪.‬‬
‫‪ ‬ربط الشعر الطويل المالبس الرخوة أوخلع المجوهرات المتدلية أو إزالتها أثناء التواجد في المختبر‪.‬‬

‫‪Page 106 of 106‬‬