ASTM E2832-12 (R2017) PDF Download

ASTM E2832-12 (R2017) is a standard test method that measures the coefficient of retroreflected luminance of pavement markings in a standard condition of continuous wetting (RL-2). This test method aims to determine the retroreflective efficiency of a pavement marking system under conditions of continuous wetting, which is different from the retroreflective efficiency under dry conditions. The test result depends on various factors such as pavement marking binder and optic materials, their application, wear from traffic and plowing, wetting rate, and road grade and cross slope.

The wetting rate used in this test method is classified as heavy rainfall, with a rate of 2 in./h. Rainfall rates above this are considered extreme and violent, often associated with weather conditions like tropical storms. The continuous wetting rate, as well as the roadway grade and cross slope, have an impact on the test results. Therefore, it is necessary for the user to measure and report the rate used for testing, as well as measure the roadway grade and cross slope adjacent to the measurement area.

It is important to note that the results obtained from this test method should not be the sole basis for specifying and assessing the wet retroreflective effectiveness of pavement marking systems. Users should complement the results with other evaluation methods, such as nighttime visual inspections. This test method provides a standardized approach for measuring the wet retroreflective properties of pavement markings using a continuous wetting device and a portable retroreflectometer.