ASTM D3142 for Specific Gravity, API Gravity, or Density of Cutback Asphalts
ASTM D3142 Standard Test Method for Specific Gravity, API Gravity, or Density of Cutback Asphalts by Hydrometer Method
7. Hazards
7.1 Materials tested using this procedure may contain volatile and flammable hydrocarbons. Heat the sample in a covered container to minimize loss of volatile components. Carry out the test in a well ventilated area, and avoid breathing any vapors which may be generated. Keep sources of ignition away from materials being tested.
7.2 Warning: Mercury has been designated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and many state agencies as a hazardous material that can cause central nervous system, kidney and liver damage. Mercury, or its vapor, may be hazardous to health and corrosive to materials. Caution should be taken when handling mercury and mercury containing products. See the applicable product Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for details. Users should be aware that selling mercury, mercury containing products, or both, into your state may be prohibited by state law.
8. Sampling
8.1 Take samples in accordance with Practice D140. The sample shall be free of foreign substances.
8.2 Thoroughly mix the sample before removing a representative portion for testing.
9. Temperature of Test
9.1 Because of differences in viscosity between various grades of cutback asphalts, the temperature of the test must be adjusted so that it will provide sufficient fluidity to conduct the test over a reasonable period of time. The recommended testing temperatures for the various grades shown in Table 2 are based on a viscosity of approximately 200 to 500 mm2/s (cSt).
9.2 When the hydrometer value is to be used to select multipliers for correcting volumes to standard temperatures, the hydrometer reading should be made preferably at a temperature within ±3°C [5°F] of the temperature at which the bulk volume of the oil was measured (Note 3). However, in cases when appreciable amounts of light fractions may be lost during determination at the bulk asphalt temperature, the temperatures given in Table 2 should not be exceeded.
NOTE 3 - When metal cylinders are used, accurate reading of the hydrometer can only be ensured if the level of the sample is within 5 mm [1/4 in.] of the top of the cylinder.
