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D1139 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📋 Scope and Approved Materials
This specification, designated D1139/D1139M-22, outlines the quality requirements and size classifications for aggregates intended for use in single or multiple asphalt surface treatments. The materials covered under this standard include crushed stone, crushed slag, crushed expanded shale, crushed expanded clay, crushed expanded slate, and crushed or uncrushed gravel.
A significant historical note is that this specification formally replaces Federal Specification SS-S-445, Class C, Types I, II, and III, serving as the modern benchmark for these materials in road construction.
The standard leverages a dual-unit notation, allowing values in either SI units or inch-pound units to be regarded separately as standard. It is critical to employ each system independently; combining values from the two systems can result in non-conformance with the specification.
⚙️ Key Quality Requirements and Test Methods
Aggregates for asphalt surface treatments must meet strict criteria for durability, soundness, and particle shape to ensure a long-lasting pavement surface. The standard mandates compliance through several rigorous ASTM test methods:
| 🔬 Property Evaluated | 📏 Standard Test Method |
|---|---|
| Resistance to Degradation (Abrasion) | C131/C131M (Los Angeles Machine) |
| Soundness (Weathering Resistance) | C88/C88M (Sodium or Magnesium Sulfate) |
| Lightweight Particles | C123/C123M |
| Clay Lumps and Friable Particles | C142/C142M |
| Fractured Particles (Crushed Faces) | D5821 |
| Flat or Elongated Particles | D4791 |
| Sieve Analysis (Gradation) | C136/C136M |
| Sampling Procedures | D75/D75M and D3665 |
💡 Key Consideration: The test methods listed above are integral requirements of D1139. For instance, the percentage of wear determined by the Los Angeles abrasion test (C131/C131M) and the weight loss from the soundness test (C88/C88M) are critical indicators of an aggregate’s ability to withstand the stresses of traffic and weathering in a thin surface treatment.
📏 Size Classification and Sieve Conformance
The specific size designations for aggregates covered by this standard are governed by ASTM D448, “Classification for Sizes of Aggregate for Road and Bridge Construction.” This classification provides the detailed sieve analysis requirements that ensure proper coverage and interlock in the surface treatment.
Regarding the sieves used for testing, the standard explicitly references Specification E11. As noted in the standard, the values stated in SI units are standard for the dimensions of the wire cloth openings, while inch-pound units are standard for the sieve frames. The alternative unit designations are provided for informational purposes.
All terminology related to materials and testing is defined in ASTM Terminologies C125 (Concrete Aggregates) and D8 (Road and Paving Materials).
⚠️ Important Note: The text of this standard references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. However, these notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard. Always refer to the primary text for mandatory requirements.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What types of materials can be specified under D1139/D1139M-22?
The standard covers crushed stone, crushed slag, crushed expanded shale, crushed expanded clay, crushed expanded slate, and crushed or uncrushed gravel intended for use in single or multiple asphalt surface treatments.
💡 What is the significance of the Los Angeles Abrasion test in this specification?
The test, executed per C131/C131M, measures the resistance of the aggregate to degradation by abrasion and impact. This is crucial for surface treatments because the aggregate must be durable enough to resist polishing and breakdown under traffic loads without losing its skid resistance or structural integrity.
⚡ How does this standard handle the dual measurement system (SI vs. Inch-Pound)?
The values stated in SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. Each system must be used independently of the other, as combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard. Sieve cloth dimensions follow SI as standard, while sieve frames follow inch-pound as standard (per E11).
📌 Does D1139 define the specific sieve sizes and gradations?
No. D1139 references ASTM D448, Classification for Sizes of Aggregate for Road and Bridge Construction, for the specific gradation requirements. The standard also relies on C136/C136M to conduct the actual sieve analysis of the aggregate sample.