ASTM D2171/D2171M-18 PDF Download

The ASTM D2171/D2171M-18 standard is titled "Standard Test Method for Viscosity of Asphalts by Vacuum Capillary Viscometer." This test method is used to determine the apparent viscosity of asphalt binder at 60 °C [140 °F] using vacuum capillary viscometers. The viscosity at 60 °C is important for assessing flow behavior and can be used as a specification requirement for cutback asphalt and asphalt binders.

The standard 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. Compliance with the criteria of Specification D3666 is recommended to ensure reliable results, but it alone does not guarantee accuracy. Factors such as testing, sampling, and inspection need to be carefully controlled and evaluated.

Note 1 mentions that although this test method can be used at other temperatures, the precision of the results is based on determinations at 60 °C. Note 2 informs that modified asphalt binders or conditioned/recovered asphalt binders may exhibit non-Newtonian behavior, and the shear rate determined by this test method may be invalid. In such cases, Test Method D4957 may be more suitable for testing non-Newtonian asphalts.

The standard also includes precautionary information regarding the handling of mercury, as vacuum capillary viscometers traditionally use mercury as the filling medium. It warns about the health hazards associated with mercury exposure and advises handling it with caution. Finally, the standard explains that notes and footnotes in the text should not be considered as requirements of the standard, except for those in tables and figures.