ASTM D7553-15 (R2021) PDF Download

The ASTM D7553-15 (R2021) standard is a test method used to determine the solubility of asphalt in n-propyl bromide. This test measures the portion of asphalt that is soluble in n-propyl bromide, which represents the active cementing constituents.

The standard specifies that the quality of the results obtained through this test method depends on the competence of the personnel performing the procedure and the calibration and maintenance of the equipment used. It mentions that compliance with Specification D3666, which outlines criteria for competent and objective testing, is important but does not guarantee reliable results. Other factors may also influence the reliability of the results.

The purpose of this standard is to provide a safe alternative to Test Method D2042, which uses trichloroethylene as a solvent. N-propyl bromide is considered safe as it has no flash point and has similar solubilizing characteristics to trichloroethylene. However, n-propyl bromide is not banned by the Kyoto Protocol as an ozone depleter.

The standard also notes that it is not applicable to tars, their distillation residues, highly cracked petroleum products, and other solvents. For testing these materials or using different solvents, other test methods such as Test Methods D4, D2318, and D2764 should be used.

The standard includes references to notes and footnotes that provide additional explanations. However, these notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) are not considered requirements of the standard.