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D113 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
The ASTM D113/D113M standard, also designated as AASHTO T51, specifies the test method for determining the ductility of asphalt materials. This test measures the distance to which a briquet specimen of the material elongates before breaking under controlled conditions.
📐 Specimen Geometry and Test Conditions
The specimen used is a briquet with a form defined in Section 4.1 of the standard. The test is typically performed at a temperature of 25 ± 0.5 °C [77 ± 0.9 °F] unless otherwise specified. The dimensions of the bath and mold are provided in SI units only, as they are not available in inch-pound units. At other temperatures, the pulling speed must be specified.
| 🟦 Parameter | 📏 Specification | 📐 Tolerance |
|---|---|---|
| Test Temperature | 25 °C [77 °F] | ± 0.5 °C [± 0.9 °F] |
| Pulling Speed | 5 cm/min | ± 5.0 % |
⚠️ Warning: This test may involve mercury, which is hazardous to health and corrosive. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for proper handling and disposal procedures.
⚙️ Test Procedure and Speed Selection
The briquet specimen is mounted in the testing machine and pulled apart at a speed of 5 cm/min ± 5.0 %. For tests conducted at alternative temperatures, the speed should be specified. The ductility is recorded as the distance in centimeters or inches at which the specimen breaks. The test is often performed on residue from evaporation or distillation of emulsified asphalt, as per standards D6934 and D6997.
💡 Tip: Calibrate the testing equipment regularly for both speed and temperature. Use precision thermometers and timing devices to ensure compliance with the tolerances.
📊 Key Measured Properties and Reference Standards
The primary property measured is ductility, which indicates the material’s ability to stretch. This standard references several ASTM standards for supporting test methods and practices, including those for penetration, heat effects, and distillation of asphalt materials.
| 🎯 Standard Code | ⚡ Description |
|---|---|
| C670 | Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for Construction Materials |
| D5/D5M | Test Method for Penetration of Bituminous Materials |
| D1754/D1754M | Test Method for Effects of Heat and Air on Asphaltic Materials (Thin-Film Oven Test) |
| D2872 | Test Method for Effect of Heat and Air on a Moving Film of Asphalt Binder (Rolling Thin-Film Oven Test) |
| D3666 | Specification for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Testing and Inspecting Road and Paving Materials |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the specified test temperature for asphalt ductility?
The standard test temperature is 25 ± 0.5 °C [77 ± 0.9 °F] unless otherwise specified in the product specification.
💡 At what speed are the specimens pulled during the test?
The specimens are pulled at a speed of 5 cm/min ± 5.0 %.
⚡ What does the ductility value represent?
The ductility value represents the distance to which the specimen elongates before breaking, measured in units of length such as centimeters or inches.
📌 Are bath and mold dimensions available in inch-pound units?
No, the bath and mold dimensions are given in SI units only, as they are not available in inch-pound units. Each system of units must be used independently.