Bituminous Materials — Worked Examples

A pycnometer test records: empty pycnometer $W_1=35.0\text{ g}$; pycnometer + water $W_2=85.0\text{ g}$; pycnometer + binder $W_3=60.0\text{ g}$; and pycnometer + binder + water $W_4=86.5\text{ g}$. Using the stated displacement relationship, determine binder relative density.

A compacted specimen has bulk relative density $G_{mb}=2.380$ and the same mixture has theoretical maximum relative density $G_{mm}=2.490$. Determine air voids.

For the same specimen, binder content is 5.5% by total mixture mass, so aggregate percentage $P_s=94.5$. Aggregate bulk relative density is $G_{sb}=2.650$. Determine VMA and VFA using the percentage convention shown.

A technician says “ASTM D6926 is the Marshall Stability test” while preparing compacted specimens. Correct the workflow.

Three valid binder penetration determinations are 62, 65, and 64 penetration units under the specified test conditions. Determine the mean and state its limitation.

A pavement binder must perform through very hot summer pavement temperatures and cold-season thermal contraction. Determine how a PG-type selection should be approached without choosing a grade from air temperature alone.

A field core has bulk relative density $G_{mb,field}=2.330$. The approved laboratory reference bulk relative density for the contract's comparison is 2.390. Calculate relative compaction.

A laboratory mixture meets density and volumetric targets but loses substantial strength after the specified moisture-conditioning procedure. Determine the engineering response.