I.

Definition

Asphalt – “A dark brown to black cementitious material, solid,

semi-solid or liquid in consistency in which the predominating
constituents are bitumens which occurs in nature as such or
which are obtained as residue in refining petroleum.”
II. Brief History

“Asphaltu” or “Sphallo” – Acadian term where in the word asphalt is claimed

to have been derived from.

Asphalt was first used in the nature of a cement for joining together various
objects and it is possible the term is expressive of this application.

Prehistoric – Skeletons of prehistoric animals preserved intact to present day

in surface deposits of asphalt La Brea, pit, Los Angeles Calif.

3200 to 540 B.C. – Recent Archaeological excavations show extensive use of

asphalt in Mesopotamia and Indus valley, as cement for masonry and highway
construction and as waterproofing layer for temple baths and water tanks.

300 B.C. - Asphalt extensively used for mummification in Egypt.

1802 A.D. – Rock asphalt used in France for floor, bridge and sidewalk
surfacing.
1838 A.D. – Rock asphalt imported and used in sidewalk construction in
Philadelphia.

1870 A.D. (Circa) – First asphalt pavement laid in Newark, New Jersey by
Professor E.J. DeSmedt, a Belgian chemist.

1876 A.D. – First sheet asphalt pavement laid in Washington D.C. with
imported lake asphalt.

1902 A.D. – Approximately 20,000 tons of asphalt refined from petroleum in

the United States.

Since 1926 - to present time the petroleum asphalt and road oil tonnage
produced annually has increased steadily.
III. Composition of Asphalt

Scientifically, asphalts are colloidal systems in which asphaltenes

constitute the dispersed phase and the remaining liquid called
petrolenes (maltenes) constitute the dispersing medium.

1. Asphaltenes

The substance which remains insoluble and precipitates or

coagulates when an asphalt is dissolved by a specific solvent such as
naphtha, ethyl ether, N-pentane or heptane
2. Petrolenes
• Substance which is soluble in petroleum solvents as N-
pentanes.
• It is composed of resins and oily constituents.
IV. Properties of Asphalt
1. Strong cement
2. Readily adhesive
3. Highly waterproof and durable
4. Imparts controllable flexibility to mixture of mineral aggregates
5. Highly resistant to the action of most acids alkalis and salts
6. Solid or semi-solid at ordinary atmospheric temperature but may be readily
liquefied by the application of heat or by dissolving it in petroleum solvents of
varying volatility or by emulsification
7. Thermoplastic material, (consistency changes as its temperature changes)

V. Uses of Asphalt
1. Binder
2. Waterproofing material
3. Joint and crack filler
4. Prime coat
5. Tack Coat
6. Seal Coat
7. Undersealing (PCCP)
8. Pipe Coating
9. Surface Treatment
10. Roofing
 Figure: Asphalt Flow Behavior

Figure: Asphalt Behavior at Varying Temperature

VI. Kinds of Asphalt
1. Natural Asphalt (Native)-natural deposits
Asphalt occurring in nature which has been derived from petroleum by natural
processes of evaporation of volatile fractions leaving the asphalt fraction.

Example:
Rock Asphalt – porous rock such as sandstone or limestone that has become
impregnated with natural asphalt through geologic process.

Lake Asphalt - pure deposits ,as in the Trinidad and Bermudez Lakes and gilsonite
deposits.

2. Manufactured Asphalt
Asphalt from crude petroleum, crude petroleum is refined and distilled to
separate the various fractions and recover the asphalt.

such asphalt is produced in a variety of types and grades ranging from hard brittle
solids to almost water – thin liquids.

the semi-solid form, known as asphalt cement, is the basic material.

(see Figure : Petroleum Asphalt Flow Chart)

Figure L Simplified flowchart showing recovery and refining of petroleum asphalts.
(Asphalt Institute Chart, somewhat modified)
Figure: Typical Crude Oil Distillation Temperatures and Products
VII. Kinds of Manufactured Asphalts (Asphaltic Materials)

1. Asphalt Cement
Asphalt that is refined to meet specifications for paving, industrial and special
purposes.
Consistency of Asphalt Cement – graded according to four diff. systems:

1. Penetration
Specification: AASHTO M -20
 AC 40 – 50
 AC 60 – 70
 AC 85 – 100
 AC 120 – 150
 AC 200 – 300

2. Viscosity (based on original sample)

Specification: AASHTO M -226
 AC - 2.5
 AC - 5
 AC - 10
 AC - 20
 AC - 40
3. Viscosity (based on Residue from Rolling Thin Film Oven Test)
Specification: AASHTO M -226
 AR - 10
 AR - 20
 AR - 40
 AR - 80
 AR - 160
4. Performance Grade(PG) Asphalt
Specification: AASHTO MP1
 PG 46 : - 34, -40, -46
 PG 52 : -10, -16, -22, -28, -34, -40, -46
 PG 58 : -10, -16, -22, -28, -34, -40
 PG 64 : -10, -16, -22, -28, -34, -40
 PG 70 : -10, -16, -22, -28, -34, -40
 PG 76 : -10, -16, -22, -28, -34
 PG 82 : -10, -16, -22, -28, -34

Uses:
1. Item 303 – Bituminous Seal Coat (AC 120-150)
2. Item 304 – Bituminous Surface Treatment (AC 120-150)
3. Item 305 – Bituminous Penetration Macadam Pavement
4. Item 310 – Bituminous Concrete Surface Course, Hot-Laid
 Suggested Grades of Asphalt Cement for Different Climates

C L I M A T E
PAVING USES
HOT AND TEMPERATE COLD
Airfields
Runways 60 – 70 85 – 100
Taxiways 60 – 70 85 – 100
Parkings 60 – 70 85 – 100
Highways
Heavy Traffic 60 – 70 85 – 100
Medium to Light Traffic 85 – 100 85 – 100
Driveways
Industrial 60 – 70 85 – 100
Service Station 60 – 70 85 – 100
Residential 85 – 100 85 – 100
Parking Lots
Industrial 60 – 70 60 - 70
Commercial 60 – 70 85 – 100
Recreational
Tennis Courts 85 – 100 85 – 100
Playgrounds 85 – 100 85 – 100
Curbing 60 – 70 85 – 100
2. Liquid Asphalt
• Liquid asphaltic products are generally prepared by cutting back or blending
asphalt cement with petroleum distillates or by emulsifying them with water
• Soft or fluid in consistency
• Viscosity graded asphalt

Kinds of Liquid Asphalt

1. Cut-back Asphalt
Asphalt cement which has been liquefied by blending with petroleum solvents
also called diluents (contains as low as 50% asphalt cement).

Characteristics:
 Liquid at room temperature
 Characteristic smell of petroleum solvents as gasoline and kerosene
 Black in color
Classification:

1.Rapid – Curing (RC) Asphalt

Asphalt Cement + Gasoline or naptha (light distillate - high volatility)

Viscosity Grade : Specification: AASHTO M 81

RC - 70
RC - 250
RC - 800
RC - 3000

2.Medium – Curing (MC) Asphalt

Asphalt Cement + Kerosene (medium distillate - medium volatility)

Viscosity Grade : Specification: AASHTO M 82

MC - 30
MC - 70
MC - 250
MC - 800
MC - 3000
3. Slow – Curing (SC) Asphalt

Asphalt Cement + Oil (heavy distillate - low volatility)

Viscosity Grade:

SC - 70
SC - 250
SC - 800
SC - 3000

Uses:
1. Item 301 – Bituminous Prime Coat (MC/RC)
2. Item 302 – Bituminous Tack Coat (RC)
3. Item 303 – Bituminous Seal Coat (RC/MC)
4. Item 304 – Bituminous Surface Treatment (MC -250/MC-800)
5. Item 305 – Bituminous Penetration Macadam Pavement (RC)
6. Item 306 – Bituminous Road-Mix Surface Course (RC/MC)
7. Item 308 – Bituminous Plant-Mix Surface Course, Cold-Laid (MC)
8. Item 309 – Bituminous Plant – Mix (Stockpile Maintenance Mixture) (MC- 250/MC-800)
9. Item 310 – Bituminous Concrete Surface Course ,Hot-Laid (MC)
2. Asphalt Emulsion

- An emulsion of asphalt cement and water (usually contains rarely below

30% and higher than 70%,depend on its intended application, and a small
amount of an emulsifying agent ,1 – 2% emulsifier).

- A heterogenous system containing two normally immiscible phases

(asphalt and water) in which the water forms the continuous phase of the
emulsion and minute globules of asphalt form the discontinuous phase.

Emulsified Asphalt – Asphalt Cement + Water + Emulsifier

Emulsifier – derivatives of salt (amine or sodium salt)

Ex. Amine Hydrochloride, Alkylamine

Characteristics:
- Liquid at room temperature
- Pungent odor
- Chocolate brown in color
Classification:

- Emulsified asphalt maybe either the anionic or cationic types depending upon the emulsifying
agent.

1. Anionic Emulsified Asphalt (-)

- electro-negatively charged asphalt globules used for limestone or calcareous aggregates.

Viscosity Grade:

Specification: AASHTO M 140

a. Rapid Setting: RS - 1
RS - 2
HFRS - 2

b. Medium Setting: MS - 1
MS - 2
MS - 2h
HFMS - 1
HFMS - 2
HFMS - 2h
HFMS - 2S

c. Slow Setting: SS - 1
SS - 1h

d. Quick Setting: QS – 1H
2. Cationic Emulsified Asphalt (+)
- electro-positively charged asphalt globules used for siliceous
materials (silica/sand).

Viscosity Grade :
Specification: AASHTO M 208

a. Rapid Setting: CRS - 1

CRS - 2

b. Medium Setting: CMS - 2

CMS - 2h

c. Slow Setting: CSS - 1

CSS - 1h

d. Quick Setting: CQS - 1h

Uses:
1. Item 205 – Asphalt Stabilized Road-Mix Base Course
2. Item 302 – Bituminous Tack Coat
3. Item 304 – Bituminous Surface Treatment (CRS-1/CRS-2,RS-1/RS-2)
4. Item 305 – Bituminous Penetration Macadam Pavement
5. Item 306 – Bituminous Road – Mix Surface Course
6. Item 308 – Bituminous Plant-Mix Surface Course, Cold Laid
7. Item 309 – Bituminous Plant-Mix (Stockpile Maintenance Mixture) (CMS-2/2h)

3. Blown or Oxidized Asphalt

- Asphalt that is treated by blowing air through it at elevated temperature to give it
characteristics desired for certain special uses.
- Penetration grade : Hard Asphalt- normally has a penetration grade of less than
10.

Uses:
1. Specially used as joint filler
2. Roofing
3. Pipe coating
4. Undersealing portland cement concrete pavement
5. Waterproofing and other hydraulic application
6. Lining of the canal
Results of Cationic and Anionic Emulsions with Two
Types of Aggregates

EMULSION AGGREGATE BREAKING RATE ADHESION

Anionic Acidic Slow Poor

Anionic Alkaline Medium Good

Cationic Acidic Fast Excellent

Cationic Alkaline Fast Good

 Table: Guideline for Selection of Emulsion Type

Rapid Setting Medium Setting Slow Setting

Surface Dressing
Slurry Seal
Penetration Macadam
In-Place Stabilization
Cold Plant Mixes
Open graded
Dense Graded
Tack Coat
Prime Coat
Fog Seal
Dust Binding
 JOINT MATERIALS
Types:
1. Hot-Poured Elastic Type
2. Preformed

1. Hot-Poured Elastic Type

- Intended for use in sealing joints or filling cracks in concrete pavement, bridges and other structures.
Specification:

DPWH STANDARD SPECIFICATION (Blue Book – 2013) : Item 705 – Joint Materials
ASSHTO M 173 : Concrete Joint Sealer, Hot-Poured Elastic Type

Tests Specifications (ASSHTO M 173)

Safe heating temperature, 0C -

0C At least 110C lower than the safe heating

Pour Point temperature,
temperature
Flow @ 600C, mm 5 Maximum

Penetration @ 250C, 150 gms, 5 secs 90 maximum

2. Preformed Expansion Joint Fillers

- Consists of preformed sheets or strips made of cane or other suitable fibers of a cellular cellulosic nature
securely bound together and then uniformly saturated with asphalt.

Specifications:

DPWH STANDARD SPECIFICATION (Blue Book – 2013) : Item 705 – Joint Materials
ASSHTO M 153 : Preformed Sponge Rubber and Cork Expansion Joint Fillers for Concrete Paving and Structural
Construction

ASSHTO M 213 : Preformed Expansion Joint Fillers for Concrete Paving and Structural Construction (Non Extruding
and Resilient Bituminous Type)

Specifications
Tests ASSHTO M 153 ASSHTO M 213
(Type I – Sponge Rubber)
Thickness, mm ± 1.5 mm ± 1.5 mm
Density, kg/m3 480 Minimum 288 Minimum

Water Absorption, % - 20 Maximum

Compression, kPa 340 – 10,350 690 – 5200

Recovery, % 90 Minimum 70 Minimum
Range of Thicknesses:
Inches Mm

¼ 6.4
3/8 9.5
½ 13
¾ 19
1 25
VIII. Sampling/Minimum Testing Requirements

Significance:
Sampling is an important as testing and every precaution shall be taken to obtain
samples that will show the true nature and condition of the materials. Samples may
be taken from tanks, stockpiles, vehicles, or containers used for storage or shipping of
bituminous materials.

1. Purposes:

• To represent as nearly as possible an average of the bulk of the material

sampled or
• To ascertain the maximum variation in characteristics which the material
possesses.

2. Size of Samples:
Asphaltic Materials:
Asphalt Cement = 4 liters (1 gal)
Cut-back Asphalt = 4 liters (1 gal)
Emulsified Asphalt = 4 liters (1 gal)
Joint Sealer = not less than 4.5 kg sample from each batch
Preformed Expansion Joint filler = 16” x 16” (per thickness)
3. Minimum Testing Requirements:
Asphaltic Materials : 1 – Q.T. – for every 40 tonnes or 200 drums or fraction
thereof
Preformed Expansion Joint Filler: 1 – Q.T. – per shipment of 100 square
meters or fraction thereof

4. Containers
Types of Containers:
1. Containers for liquid bituminous material samples, except emulsions,
shall be double friction top cans, square cans with screw tops, or small
mouth cans with screw caps.

2. Containers for anionic emulsified asphalt samples shall be wide mouth

jars or bottles made of glass or plastic.

3. Containers for cationic emulsified asphalt samples shall be wide mouth

jars or bottles made of plastic or wide mouth cans with screw caps.

Size of Container: Shall correspond to the required amount of samples.

5. Protection and Preservation of Samples

1. Sample containers shall be new. They shall not be washed or rinsed or wiped
with oily cloth. Top and container shall fit together tightly.

2. Care shall be taken to prevent the sample from becoming contaminated.

Immediately after filling, the containers shall be tightly and positively sealed.

3. The filled sample container shall not be submerged in solvent nor shall it wiped
with a solvent saturated cloth. If cleaning is necessary use a clean dry cloth.

4. Samples of emulsion shall be protected from freezing by correct packaging.

5. Transferring samples from one container to another shall be avoided if

possible, as characteristics of materials could be altered during transfer and
there is a possibility of contamination.

6. Immediately after filling, sealing and cleaning, the sampling containers shall be
properly marked for identification with a suitable marking pencil on the
container itself, not on the lid.
6. Sampling Method (AASHTO T 40)
Sampling Liquid Materials or Materials Made Liquid by Heating
A. From Bulk Storage Tank Not Equipped with Mechanical Agitators

Samples shall be obtained by one of the three following methods:

1. Tank Tap Method(Sampling Valve Method) – using valves or taps at top, middle and lower locations of the
tank draw a 1 qt to 1 gal (1 to 4 liters) sample from each after clearing by drawing and discarding a
minimum of 1 gal (4 liters) of the material.

2. Thief Sampler Method – (not suitable for asphalt cements) – samples shall be taken at top, middle and
lower levels of the tank by lowering a Thief Sampler into the material. Maybe used for repititive
sampling. (See Figure).

3. Throw-Away Container Method – samples shall be taken at top, middle and lower levels of the tank by
lowering a suitable weighted holding device into the material (See Figure), the essential feature of the
method is to use a clean container each time a sample is taken from the tank, pouring the sample into
another clean container and throwing-away the container used in sampling.

B. From Bulk Storage Tanks Equipped with Mechanical Agitators – when the tank is equipped with operating
mechanical agitators which are performing adequate mixing of the tank contents, a single sample taken
by methods described in A will be satisfactory to use for test purposes.
 Figure I – Thief Sampler
Note: This type sampler is lowered into the tank with the bottom valve open (there is no top closure).
When the desired depth is reached, the lowering chain is given a snap tug which closes the bottom
valve. The sampler is then withdrawn from the tank and the contents transferred to the sample
container. This sample may be used for repetitive sampling in the same tank
 Figure 2 – Throw-away Container Sampler
Note: This type sampler is lowered into the tank with the stopper in place. When the desired depth is
reached, the stopper is removed by means of the attached wire, cord or chain and the container
allowed to fill. Complete filling is indicated by the cessation of bubbles or air from the can at the
surface of the liquid. The sample is then withdrawn from the tank and the contents poured into the
clean sample container. A clean can (bottle) must be used for each sample taken.
IX. Testing of Asphalt
1. Asphalt Cement (9 tests)
1.1 Specific Gravity
1.2 Loss on heating
1.3 Solubility
1.4 Spot test
1.5 Flash Point (Cleveland Open Cup FlashTester)
1.6 Penetration
1.6.1 Original
1.6.2 After loss
1.7 Ductility
1.7.1 Original
1.7.2 After loss
2. Cut-back Asphalt Cement (8 tests)
2.1 Specific Gravity
2.2 Flash Point (Tag Open Cup Flash Tester)
2.3 Viscosity (Kinematic Capillary Viscometer)
2.4 Distillation
2.5 Test on residue
2.5.1 Penetration
2.5.2 Ductility
2.5.3 Solubility
2.5.4 Spot test
3. Emulsified Asphalt (9 tests)
3.1 Specific Gravity
3.2 Storage Stability
3.3 Sieve Test
3.4 Viscosity (Saybolt-Furol Viscometer)
3.5 Cement Mixing
3.6 Distillation
3.7 Test on Residue
3.7.1 Penetration
3.7.2 Ductility
3.7.3 Solubility
X. Significance of Tests

1. Specific Gravity
- It is a gauge to a uniformity of supply of an asphalt (if it is being adulterated
or diluted).
- Important during computation and design (Job-Mix) essentials in the
determination of the effective asphalt content and the percentage of air
voids in compacted mix specimens and compacted pavement.
- Results is of value for making volume correction when measurements are
made at elevated temperature.

2. Solubility
- Determines the bitumen content in asphalt cement that is soluble in a
solvent (carbon disulfide and carbon tetrachloride).
- Measures the purity of the asphalt cement.
- Portion of the asphalt cement that is soluble represent the active cementing
constituents.
- Impurities such as salts, free carbon and non-organic contaminants does not
dissolve in a solvent.
3. Spot Test
- Determines if asphalts is overheated or not during production.

4. Loss of Heating
- Determines the loss of volatiles in the asphalt.

5. Flash Point
- Indicates the safe heating temperature of the asphalt, the temperature to which
the material maybe safely heated without danger of instantaneous flash (catching
fire or explode) in the presence of an open flame.

6. Penetration
- Determines the relative hardness or consistency of an asphalt cement, by
measuring the distance of the standard needle used that penetrate vertically to
the sample under the fixed condition of temperature, load, and time.

7. Ductility
- Measures the ability of asphalt to stretch without breaking
- A gauge to adhesiveness of asphalt, the higher the ductility the more adhesive
the asphalt.
8. Viscosity
- Liquidity or fluidity of asphalt.
- Consistency test of the liquid asphalt.
- Determines the flow characteristics of asphalt in the range of
temperature during application.

9. Distillation
- Determines the relative proportions of asphalt and diluent present in
liquid asphalt.
- also used to measure the amount of diluent that distills off at various
temperature denoting its evaporation characteristics, this in turn,
indicates the relative rate at which the material will cure “after
application”.

10.Sieve Test
- Determines quantitatively the percent asphalt present in the form of
relatively large globules in the emulsion, Such globules do not provide
thin & uniform coatings of asphalt on the aggregate particles.
- Determines whether the emulsion has properly emulsified (properly
mixed).
11. Cement Mixing
- Determines the resistance of the emulsion to breakdown on the
job.
- Determines the rate where in the emulsion will break when in
contact with soil or mineral aggregates.

12. Storage Stability

- Detects the tendency of the asphalt globules in the emulsion to
settle during storage of an emulsified asphalt.

XI. Specifications:

ASSHTO M-20 – Penetration Graded Asphalt Cement

ASSHTO M-81 – Cut-back Asphalt (Rapid – Curing Type)
ASSHTO M-82 – Cut-back Asphalt (Medium – Curing Type)
ASSHTO M-140 – Emulsified Asphalt (Anionic)
ASSHTO M-208 – Cationic Emulsified Asphalt
Solubility Test
Cleveland Open Cup Flash Tester
Cleveland Open Cup Flash Point Test
Tag Open Cup Flash Tester
Ductility Test
Penetration Test
Standard Penetration Test
Saybolt Furol Viscosity Test
Kinematic Capillary Viscosity Test
Thin Film Oven
Distillation Test
 LECTURE ON BITUMINOUS PAVING MIX
KINDS OF PAVEMENT

1. Rigid - Type Pavement

- Concrete Pavement
- Concrete Mix
- Cement + Aggregates + Water
- Design Mix

2. Flexible Type - Asphalt Pavement

- Asphalt Pavement
- Bituminous Mix
- Asphalt + Mineral Aggregates
- Job Mix

Asphalt Pavements – pavements consisting of a surface course of mineral aggregate

coated and cemented together with asphalt cement on supporting course such as asphalt
bases, crushed stone, slag or gravel or on Portland Cement concrete brick or block
pavement.
 Asphalt Pavement Structures
(Flexible Pavement Structure)

Courses of asphalt aggregate mixtures plus any

non-rigid courses between the asphalt
construction and the foundation or subgrade.

“Flexible” – The term sometimes used in

connection with asphalt pavements denotes the
ability of such a pavement structure to conform to
settlement of foundation.
 Types of Asphalt Pavement
1. Dense – Graded Hot Mix Asphalt
- Hot mix asphalt pavement, the highest quality among the different types
- Consists of well graded aggregate and asphalt cement which are heated and
blended together in exact proportions at a hot mix plant.
Well – Graded Aggregates – aggregate that is graded from the max. size down to filler
with object of obtaining an asphalt mix with controlled void content and high stability.

2. Open – Graded Surface and Base Courses

- One containing little or no mineral filler or in which the void spaces in the
compacted aggregates are relatively large.

3. Stone – Filled Mixes

- A sheet of asphalt containing up to 25 percent coarse aggregate
 Types of Asphalt Pavement
4. Sand Hot Mix Asphalt

- A mixture of sand and asphalt cement or liquid asphalt prepared with or without
special control of aggregate grading, with or without mineral filler.

- Either mixed-in-place or plant-mix construction may be employed.

- Use in construction of both base and surface courses.

5. Sheet Hot Mix Asphalt

- A hot mix of asphalt cement with clean, angular, graded sand and mineral filler.
- Its use is ordinary confined to surface course usually laid on an intermediate or
leveling course
6. Asphalt Emulsion Mixes (Cold Mixes)

- Cold mix pavements use asphalt emulsion or cut-back asphalt.

- Require little or no heating of materials and can often be produced at the

construction site without a central plant.
 Courses of Asphalt – Aggregate Mixture
(Dense – Graded HMA Mixture)
1. Asphalt Base Course – a foundation course consisting of mineral
aggregate, bound together with asphaltic material.
2. Asphalt Intermediate Course (Binder Course) – a course between a
base course and an asphalt surface course.
3. Asphalt Surface Course (Wearing Course) – the top course of an
asphalt pavement.
3. Asphalt Leveling Course – a course (asphalt-aggregate mixture) of
variable thickness used to eliminate irregularities in the contour of an
existing surface prior to superimposed treatment or construction.
Full-Depth Asphalt Pavement – is one in which asphalt mixtures are used
for all courses (layers) above the subgrade.

Asphalt Overlay – one or more courses of asphalt construction on an

existing pavement. HMA overlay as designed to rehabilitate and
strengthen an old pavement,extending its life and correcting surface
irregularities.

- generally, includes a leveling course to correct the contour of the old

pavement followed by uniform course or courses to provide needed
thickness.

- when overlaying rigid type pavement the overlay should be not less
than four inches thick to minimize reflection of cracks and joints
through the overlay.

- greater thickness of overlay may be required depending upon

conditions of old pavement and traffic to be served.
 Bituminous Mix
Composition of Bituminous Mix

1. Asphalt – is the binder of the aggregates

- Normally ranges from 5 – 8% mass percent on the basis of total dry

aggregate.
- Grade of asphalt cement normally ranges from 60/70 to 200/300
penetration.

The service performance of an asphalt pavement is greatly influenced by the

grade and quantity of asphalt it contains.

The grade selected for each project is influenced by climatic conditions,

traffic, and strength of the road foundation.

Hot climates – use lower penetration grades or hard asphalts.

Cold Climates – use higher penetration grades or softer asphalts.

 Bituminous Mix
Composition of Bituminous Mix

2. Mineral Aggregate

- Constitute about 95% by weight of the asphalt concrete mixture.

- Supply nearly all of the pavement load bearing capacity.

- Their quality and physical properties are critical to pavement performance.

Aggregate Fractions:

1. Coarse Aggregate (CA)

- Retained 2.36 mm (No. 8) Sieve

- May be obtained from gravel deposits or stone quarries.

Aggregate Fractions:

2. Fine Aggregate (FA)

- Passing 2.36 mm (No. 8) sieve and retained on 0.075 mm (No. 200) sieve

- Sources of fine aggregate are natural deposits of bank, beach or river sand
or screenings from aggregate crushing plants.

The dividing size between coarse and fine aggregate is 2.36 mm (No. 8).
Aggregate Fractions:

3. Mineral Filler (MF)

- Passing 0.075 mm (No. 200) sieve

- May consist of finely ground limestone, rock powder, naturally occurring

silt, portland cement, hydrated lime or similar clean non-plastic finely
divided mineral matter.

- It may occur naturally in the fine and coarse aggregate as mineral dust
or it may be added as a separate ingredient.

- Normally range 0.5 to 1.0 mass percent dry aggregate basis if hydrated
lime is used, lower percentage limit is applicable to aggregate which are
predominantly calcareous.
 Important Properties of Aggregates

1. Strength
2. Particle shape
3. Surface texture
4. Absorption
5. Gradation
6. Cleanliness
7. Specific Gravity
8. Affinity for water
9. Soundness
 Two Types of Bituminous Mix

1. Plant – Mix: a mixture produced in an asphalt mixing plant which consist of

mineral aggregates uniformly coated with asphalt cement or liquid asphalt.

Types of Plant Mixes

a. Hot – Mix – plant mixes which must be spread and compacted at an elevated
temperature.

- Hot-laid
- Both the aggregate and asphalt cement are heated prior to mixing for giving
origin to the term “hot-mix”.
- Higher durability and stability than cold mix

b. Cold – Mix – plant mixes which may be spread or compacted at atmospheric

temperature.

- Cold-laid
- Use only for patching

2. Road – Mix (Mixed-in-Place): an asphalt course produced by mixing mineral aggregate

and liquid asphalt at the road site by means of travel plants, motor graders, drags or
special road-mixing equipment.
Voids in the Mineral Aggregate (VMA)
in a Compacted Mix Specimen
 Significant Properties of Bituminous Paving Mixture

1. Stability – it is defined as resistance to displacement under sustained or repeated loadings.

- It implies resistance to shoving and rutting by the action of vehicular traffic and involves
resistance to shearing stress.

Factors Affecting Stability

1. Gradation of the Mineral Aggregate
2. Shape and Surface Texture of Aggregate Particles
3. Hardness of Aggregate Particles
4. Maximum Size of Coarse Aggregate
5. Quantity and Consistency of the Bituminous Binder
6. Degree of Compaction

Test for Stability

1. Hubbard – Field
2. Marshall
3. Hveem Stabilometer
4. Unconfined Immersion – Compression
5. Triaxial Compression
 Significant Properties of Bituminous Paving Mixture

2. Durability – it is defined as resistance to disintegration or deterioration due to the detrimental

effects of traffic, water, air and temperature changes.

Factors Affecting Durability

1. Density of the compacted mixture

2. Properties of mineral aggregates
3. Properties of the Bituminous Binder
4. Quantity of the Bituminous Binder

3. Flexibility – it is defined as the ability of the pavement to bend repeatedly without cracking and to
conform to variations of the underlying base.

Factors Affecting Flexibility

1. Quantity of Bituminous Binder

2. Quantity of Mineral Filler
3. Viscosity and Temperature susceptibility of the binder
 Significant Properties of Bituminous Paving Mixture

4. Skid Resistance – it is the resistance offered by the pavement to slipping or skidding of the vehicle
tires.

Factors Affecting Skid Resistance

1. Excess asphalt at pavement surface

2. Surface roughness of aggregate particles

5. Permeability – it means porosity or perviousness of the mixture, principally dependent on pore

size, a dense graded mix prevents water from entering the base through the surface.

Factors Affecting Permeability

1. Density of the compacted mixture

2. Temperature of the mix
 Significant Properties of Bituminous Paving Mixture

6. Workability – the ease by which the material can be placed to its desired uniformity and
compacted to the required density

Factors Affecting Workability

1. Gradation of Aggregate
2. Consistency of the bituminous binder
3. Temperature of the mix

7. Fatigue Resistance – ability to withstand repeated flexing caused by the passage of the wheel
loads.

Factors Affecting Fatigue Resistance

1. Quantity and Viscosity of the Bituminous Binder

2. Inadequate Compaction
 Sampling/Minimum Testing Requirements

Sampling is equally as important as the testing and the sampler shall use every precaution to obtain
samples that are representative to the bituminous mixture

Care shall be taken in sampling:

- To avoid segregation of coarse aggregate and bituminous mortar
- To prevent contamination by dust or other foreign matter

DEFINITION OF TERMS:

field sample –a quantity of the material to be tested of sufficient size to provide an acceptable estimate of
the average quality of a unit. Field sample is composed of three or more increments chosen at random
from the material as it is loaded or unloaded from the truck. Extract test portions from the field sample by
quartering or splitting.

increment – part of a sample.

lot – a sizable isolated quantity of bulk material from a single source, assumed to have been produced by
the same process(for example, a day’s production or a specific mass of volume).

test portion- a quantity of the material of sufficient size extracted from the larger field sample,
by a procedure designed to ensure accurate representation of the field sample, and thus of the unit
sampled.

unit- a batch or finite subdivision of a lot of bulk material (for example, a truck load or a specific area
covered ).
 Sampling/Minimum Testing Requirements

Sampling Bituminous Paving Mixtures (AASHTO T 168)

(Sampling of bituminous paving mixtures at points of manufacture, storage, delivery,
or in place.)

PROCEDURE

1. INSPECTION - The material shall be inspected to determine discernible variations. The seller shall
provide equipment needed for safe appropriate inspection and sampling.

2. SAMPLING - The procedures for selecting locations or times for sampling are described in Practice D
3665-Standard Practice for Random Sampling of Construction Materials.

2.1 Sampling from a Conveyor Belt - Stop the conveyor belt. Randomly select at least three
areas of approximately equal size on the belt for sampling. In each of the locations to be
sampled, insert templates, the shape of which conform to the shape of the belt. From the
selected areas obtain approximately equal increments of material which will form a Sample
whose quantity equals or exceeds the minimum recommended (See Table). Carefully scoop all
material between templates into a suitable container.

2.2 Sampling from Truck Transports - By a random method, select the units to be sampled from
the production of materials delivered. Obtain at least three approximately equal increments.
Avoid sampling the extreme top surface. Select at random from the unit being sampled and
combine to form a field sample whose quantity equals or exceeds the minimum recommended
in Table 1. The sample may be obtained by collecting the increments with a scoop or shovel.
 Sampling/Minimum Testing Requirements
PROCEDURE (cont’d)

2.3 Sampling from the Roadway Prior to Compaction - When only one sample is to be taken,
obtain at least three approximately equal increments, selected at random from the unit being
sampled, and combine to form a field sample whose quantity equals or exceeds the minimum
recommended in Table 1.

2.3.1 When three or more samples are to be taken in order to evaluate a lot of material, utilize
a random method to determine the locations to be sampled. Select a sample consisting
of approximately three equal increments, from each location, assuring the quantity of
each sample exceeds the minimum recommended in Table 1.

2.3.2 Take all increments or samples from the roadway fort the full depth of the material,
taking Care to exclude any underlying material. When necessary, place templates on
the existing roadway to exclude any underlying material. Clearly mark the specified area
from which each increment or sample is to be removed. Templates which are placed
before the mixture is spread will be a definite aid securing increments of approximately
equal mass.

2.4 Sampling from a Skip Conveyor Delivering Mixture to Bin Storage - Select the unit to be
sampled from the skip conveyor by a random method based on the bin’s storage capacity. Stop
the skip conveyor immediately following pugmill discharge. Dig a furrow 150 mm (6 in.) in
depth extending from the top to the bottom of the pile. Obtain three approximately equal
increments from the top, middle, and bottom of the furrow depositing each increment in a
container. The combined increments should form a field sample whose quantity equals or
exceeds the minimum recommended in Table 1.
 Sampling/Minimum Testing Requirements
PROCEDURE (cont’d)

2.5 Sampling from a Funnel Device Feeding a Conveyor for Mixture Delivery to Storage -
Select the units to be sampled from the funnel device by a random method based on the bin’s
maximum storage Capacity. Obtain at least three approximately equal increments of material
for each sample by passing a bucket or a pan or other suitable container across the full flow of
materials as it drops from the funnel device onto the conveyor. The combined portions should
form a field sample whose quantity equal or exceeds the minimum recommended in Table 1.

2.6 Sampling from Roadway after Compaction – Select the units to be sampled by a random
method from the material in place. Obtain at least three approximately equal samples selected
at random from the unit being sampled. Test each sample and average the test results to
determine the acceptability. Take all samples from the roadway for the full depth of the
material. Taking care to exclude any underlying material. Each increment shall be obtained by
coring, sawing, or other methods in such a manner as to ensure a minimum disturbance of the
material.
 Sampling/Minimum Testing Requirements
PROCEDURE (cont’d)

3. Number and Quantities of Field Samples:

3.1 The number of field samples (obtained by one of the methods described) required depends on
the criticality of, and variation in, the properties to be measured. Designate each unit from
which a field sampler is to be obtained prior to sampling. The number of field samples from the
production should be sufficient to give the desired confidence in test results.

3.2 A guide to the quantity of material in field samples is given in Table 1. The quantities depend on
the type and number of tests to which the material is to be subjected, and sufficient material
must be obtained to provide for the proper execution of these tests. Generally, the amounts
specified in Table 1 will provide adequate material for routine testing. Extract test portions from
the field sample by quartering or splitting in a similar manner to Practice C 702 Practice for
Reducing Field Samples of Aggregate to Testing Size or as required by other applicable test
methods.
 Sampling/Minimum Testing Requirements
PROCEDURE (cont’d)

4. Shipping Samples

4.1 Transport samples in containers so constructed as to preclude loss or contamination of any part
of the sample, or damage to the contents from mishandling during shipment.

4.2 Samples shall have individual identification attached giving the information required by the
sample user. Typical information that may be useful could include, but not necessarily be limited
to, the following:
4.2.1 Job for which the material is to be used, giving project number, highway route number.
County, and other pertinent geographical information.
4.2.2 Source of sample, including for plant-mixed samples the name of owner or operator of
plant, location of plant, type of plant, size of batch, and identification of bitumen and
mineral aggregates used in the mixture,
4.2.3 Point at which sampled, for samples taken from roadway, both by station number and
location transversely in pavement; also whether sampled from completed pavement,
windrow, etc.,
4.2.4 Quantity represented,
4.2.5 By whom sampled and title,
4.2.6 Date of most recent mixing, if road-mixe3d,
4.2.7 Date sampled,
4.2.8 By whom submitted and address,
4.2.9 Purpose for which sample was taken, and
NUMBER AND QUANTITIES OF FIELD SAMPLES: The number of field samples from the
production should be sufficient to give the desired confidence in test results.

GUIDE FOR ESTIMATING QUANTITY OF SAMPLE

Nominal Maximum Size of Approximate Mass of

Aggregates Uncompacted Mixture,min.
Minimum Testing Requirementskg(lb)
2.36-mm(No. 8) 2 (4)

4.75-mm (No. 4) 2 (4)

9.5-mm (3/8-in.) 4 (8)

12.5-mm (1/2-in) 5 (12)

19.0-mm (3/4-in.) 7 (16)

25.0-mm (1-in.) 9 (20)

37.5-mm (11/2-in.) 11 (25)

50.0-mm (2-in.) 16 (35)

 Minimum Testing Requirements

1 – Q.T. – For every 130 M.T. or fraction thereof

Size of sample : 20 kg

Tests on Bituminous Mix

1. Extraction – quantitative determination of asphalt content in bituminous paving

mixtures. Asphalt content may be express either as a percentage by weight of total
weight of mix or a percentage by weight of dry aggregates.

Calculation:
wt. of original - wt. of sample
sample after extraction
% Asphalt Content = ----------------------------------------------- x 100
(by wt. of mix) wt. of original sample

wt. of original - wt. of sample

sample after extraction
% Asphalt Content = ----------------------------------------------- x 100
(by wt. of agg.) wt. of sample after extraction
 Tests on Bituminous Mix

2. Bulk Specific Gravity – Bulk specific gravity of the compacted bituminous mixtures are
used in calculating unit weight of the mixture. The specific gravity or density is an
important data in the determination of the degree of compaction of a newly
constructed asphalt pavement.

Calculation:
A
Bulk Specific Gravity, Gmb = -------------------
B - C

where:
A = mass of specimen in air, g
B = mass of surface – dry specimen, g.
C = mass of specimen in water, g.

3. Grading – determining the relative proportions of various particles sizes of mineral

aggregates in a mix, if it conforms with the Job-Mix Formula/Specifications.
 Tests on Bituminous Mix

4. Stability (Immersion – Compression Method) – this method covers measurement of the

loss of cohesion resulting from the action of water on compacted bituminous
mixtures.

1. Dry Stability – compressive strength of freshly molded and cured specimens.

2. Wet Stability - compressive strength of duplicate specimens that have been
immersed in water under prescribed conditions.

Calculation:

Index of Retained Strength (IRS) – calculate numerical index of resistance of bituminous

mixtures to the detrimental effect of water as the percentage of the original strength
that is retain after the immersion period.

Load Load
Stability (Compressive Strength) = -------------- = ------------
Area  D2/4

Wet Stability
Index of Retained Strength, (IRS), % = ---------------------- x 100
Dry Stability
 Job-Mix Formula
Job-Mix Formula – primary quality control mechanism for the production of asphalt
mixtures with a high degree of uniformity that will satisfy job
requirements. The Job-Mix Formula, with the allowable
tolerances becomes the job control grading band. The job
control grading band, however, must be within the boundaries of
the specification grading band. (See Figure)

Each Job-Mix Formula submitted shall proposed definite single values for:

1. The percentage of aggregate passing each specified sieve size.

2. The percentage of bituminous material to be added.
3. The temperature of the mixture delivered on the road.
4. The kind and percentage of additive to be used.
5. The kind and percentage of mineral filler to be used.
 Job-Mix Formula
After the job-mix is established, all mixture furnished for the project shall conform thereto within
the following ranges of tolerances:

Passing No. 4 and larger sieve ± 7%

Passing No. 8 to No. 100 sieve (inclusive) ± 4%
Passing No. 200 sieve ± 2%
Bituminous Material ± 0.4%
Temperature of Mix ± 100C

The mixture shall have a minimum compressive strength (dry stability) of 1.4 MPa (200 psi) or 1400
kN/m2 or KPa.
The mixture shall also have a mass percent air voids with the range of 3 to 5.
The mixture shall also have an index of retained strength of not less than 70%.
All least three weeks prior to production, the contractor shall submit in writing a job-mix formula
for each mixture supported by laboratory test data along with samples and sources of the
components and viscosity temperature relationships information to the Engineer for testing and
approval.
Should a change in source of material be proposed or should a job-mix formula prove
unsatisfactory, a new job-mix formula shall be submitted by the contractor in writing and be
approved by the Engineer prior to production.

Approval of a new job-mix formula may require laboratory testing and verification.
 Table 703.2
Gradation Ranges – Hot Plant Mix Bituminous Pavements
(Mass percent passing square sieves, AASHTO T 11 and T 27)

Sieve Designation, G R A D I N G
mm A B C D E F G
37.5 (1-1/2 inch) 100 - - - - - -
25 (1 inch) 95-100 100 100 - - - -
19 (3/4 inch) 75-95 95-100 95-100 100 - 100 -
12.5 (1/2 inch) - 68-86 68-86 95-100 100 - 100
9.5 (3/8 inch) 54-75 56-78 56-78 74-92 95-100 - 95-100
4.75 (No. 4) 36-58 38-60 38-60 48-70 75-90 45-65 30-50
2.36 (No. 8) 25-45 27-47 27-47 33-53 62-82 33-53 5-15
1.18 (No. 16) - 18-37 18-37 22-40 38-58 - -
0.600 (No. 30) 11-28 11-28 13-28 15-30 22-42 - -
0.300 (No. 50) - 6-20 9-20 10-20 11-28 10-20 -
0.075 (No. 200) 0-8 0-8 4-8 4-9 2-10 3-8 2-5
 Table 703.3
Gradation Requirements – Cold Plant Mix Bituminous Pavement
(Mass percent passing square sieves, AASHTO T 27)

Sieve Designation Bottom (Binder) Wearing (Surface)

Standard, mm Alternate US Std Course Course
37.5 1-1/2” 100 -
25 1” 85 – 100 -
19 ¾” 40 – 70 100
12.5 ½” 10 – 35 95 – 100
4.75 No. 4 4 – 16 15 – 40
2.36 No. 8 0–5 10 – 25
0.600 No. 30 - 4 – 13
0.300 No. 50 - 0–5
 Testing of Drilled Cores from an Asphalt Pavement

Significance and Use

• Core tests determine the thickness and density of compacted asphalt pavement

Sampling:

1. Specimens shall be taken from the pavement with a core drill, diamond or
carborundum saw, or by other suitable means.

2. Care shall be taken to avoid distortion, bending or cracking of specimen during and
after removal from the pavement.

3. Specimens shall be free from foreign materials such as seal coat, tack coat, foundation
material, soil, paper or foil.

4. Specimens for thickness and density determination.

Sawed specimen : at least 150 mm x 150 mm

Cored specimen : 100 mm dia. full depth

Recommended that:
1. The diameter of cylindrically molded or cored specimens, or the length of the sides of
sawed specimens, be at least equal to four times the maximum size of the aggregates.

2. That the thickness of the specimens be at least one and on-half times of the maximum
size of the aggregates.

Obtaining of Core Specimens

Case I : At least one but no more than three (3) samples shall be taken for each full day’s
operation.

To ascertain the degree of compaction of the asphalt pavement, more than one (1) core
sample but not greater than three (3) maybe taken for each day’s operation. When 2 or 3
cores are taken, each core should represent a specific pavement area completed within a
day. Averaging of the thickness and density of the 2 or 3 cores should not be done.

Case 2 : If no core was taken at the end of each day’s operation and the project ha already
been completed, a core shall be taken for every 100 linear meters per lane or fraction
thereof of the completed pavement. Each core shall represent 100 LM of the asphalt
pavement. Averaging of the thickness and density of the core should not be done.
 TESTS ON ASPHALT CORE
1. Density
Calculation:

Density (d) = Gmb x Density of water

where:

Density of water = 1.0 gm/cm3

Gmb = Bulk Specific Gravity

CALCULATION OF BULK SPECIFIC GRAVITY (Gmb)

A
Gmb = ---------------------
B - C
where:
A = mass of specimen in air, g
B = mass of surface dry specimen, g
C = mass of specimen in water, g
Calculation:

Field Density
% Compaction = -----------------------------------------------x 100
Laboratory Compacted Density

2. Thickness
1. Make four (4) measurements at approximately quarter points on the periphery of cores
or at the approximate midpoint of each of the four (4) sides of rectangular sawed
specimens. (See figure)

2. The average of these measurements is the thickness (t) of the specimen.

1 1

4 2 4 2

3 3

POSITIONS OF MEASUREMENTS
 Acceptance, Sampling and Testing of Finished Asphalt Pavement

The contractor shall cut full depth samples as directed from the finished pavement for testing.
Samples shall be neatly cut by saw or core drill. Each sample shall be at least 150 mm x 150 mm or
100 mm diameter full depth. At least one, but not more than three samples shall be taken fro each
full day’s operation. If no core samples were taken during the day’s operation, core samples shall be
taken from the completed pavement for every 100 L.M. per lane. The contractor shall supply and
furnish new material to back fill bore holes left by the samples taken.

No acceptance and final payment shall be made on completed asphalt pavement unless core test
for thickness determination is conducted, except for Barangay Roads where the implementing office
is allowed to waive such test.

The samples obtained will be used to measure the thickness of the pavement. The same samples
will be used to test the density of the compacted pavement.

The compacted pavement shall have a density equal to, or greater than 97 mass percent of the
density of a laboratory specimens. The asphalt pavement represented by the cores shall not be
accepted if the deficiency in density is more than 2%.
 Acceptance, Sampling and Testing of Finished Asphalt Pavement

The compacted pavement shall have a thickness tolerances of – 5 mm. Thickness in

excess of the specified thickness shall not be considered in the payment of asphalt
pavement. The asphalt pavement represented by the individual core shall not be
accepted if the deficiency in the core thickness is more than 5 mm.

If the deficiency in the core thickness is more than 5 mm, additional layer maybe
permitted in order to meet the designed thickness, however, the minimum additional
asphalt overlay thickness should be depended on the minimum thickness capacity of
asphalt paver but it should not be less than 50 mm (2 inches) and that proper
construction procedures are followed.

Method of Measurement:

The area to be paid shall be the number of square meters (m2) of asphalt pavement
placed, compacted and accepted based on the thickness and densities of the cores taken.
 Republic of the Philippines
Department of Public Works and Highways
BUREAU OF RESEARCH AND STANDARDS
EDSA, Diliman, Quezon City

WORKSHEET ON TESTING OF BITUMINOUS CONCRETE CORE

Project :
Source/Suppli :
er
Tested By :
Lab. No. : Date Tested
:

Thickness Bulk Specific Gravity

Lab. cm. Bulk
I.D. Station Wt. In Wt. in Wt.
No. Sp.
1 2 3 4 Ave. Air Water SSD
Gravity