ASTM D70/D70M-21 PDF Download

The ASTM D70/D70M-21 standard is titled "Standard Test Method for Specific Gravity and Density of Semi-Solid Asphalt Binder (Pycnometer Method)." This test method is used to determine the specific gravity (relative density) and density of semi-solid asphalt binder. The procedure involves using a pycnometer, which is a specific apparatus designed for this purpose.

The standard emphasizes the importance of accurate density values for converting volumes to units of mass and for correcting measured volumes from the temperature of measurement to a standard temperature using Practice D4311/D4311M. It also highlights that the quality of the results obtained from this test method depends on the competence of the personnel performing the procedure and the calibration and maintenance of the equipment used.

The standard notes that compliance with Specification D3666, which sets criteria for competent and objective testing, sampling, and inspection among other things, is essential but not sufficient to ensure reliable results. It advises users to follow the suggestions of Specification D3666 or a similar acceptable guideline to evaluate and control various factors that can impact the reliability of the results.

The standard provides some additional information in its notes. It suggests alternate test methods for determining specific gravity or density of asphalt binder and mentions that this test method can also be used for the determination of specific gravity and density of soft tar pitches. It also includes a warning about handling mercury and mercury-containing products, as mercury is used in the pycnometer method. The standard concludes by stating that the notes and footnotes in the text are for explanatory purposes and do not impose additional requirements.