Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
D1187 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
🛡️ Scope and Classification of Asphalt-Base Emulsions
This specification covers emulsified asphalt suitable for application in a relatively thick film as a protective coating for metal surfaces. It distinguishes between two service types based on their setting characteristics and environmental resistance.
| 🟦 Feature | 📏 Type I | 📏 Type II |
|---|---|---|
| Setting Characteristic | Quick-setting | Standard setting |
| Exposure Suitability | Continuous water exposure (within days of drying) | Continuous weather exposure (after drying) |
| Primary Application | Surfaces requiring rapid water resistance | Exterior metal structures |
⚙️ Composition and Performance Requirements
The emulsion shall consist of asphalt, water, and emulsifying agents. Performance is strictly defined by homogeneity and mechanical stability under specific conditions. Per the standard, values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units must be used independently; combining values from the two systems results in nonconformance.
💡 Tip on Application: The coating must be spreadable at a specific rate of 1.0 L/m² [2.5 gal U.S./100 ft²] on vertical metal surfaces. Ensure the ambient temperature is strictly above 10°C [50°F] to meet the consistency requirements of the standard.
| 🎯 Property | ⚡ Requirement | 📐 Test Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Uniformity | Homogeneous; no water separation, settling, or packing that cannot be resolved by moderate hand stirring | Closed container held at 10°C [50°F] for 48 hours |
| Consistency | Readily spreadable by brush, mop, or trowel at 1.0 L/m² | Vertical metal surfaces, ambient > 10°C [50°F] |
| Stability (Cement Test) | No coagulation during mixing or at the end of the 1-minute mixing period | 25% (by weight) Type III high-early-strength Portland cement added stepwise. Cement must have a minimum specific surface area of 1900 cm²/g. |
🧪 Sampling and Mandatory Test Methods
Sampling and the enumeration of properties must generally follow Test Methods D2939. The Stability test has specific material requirements: Portland cement conforming to Type III of Specification C150/C150M.
The procedure for the Stability test requires placing approximately 200 g of the emulsion in a tared 500 mL round-bottom porcelain dish. Then, 25% mass of Portland cement is added in small portions while stirring constantly with a stiff spatula. There must be no coagulation during or after the 1-minute mixing period.
⚠️ Warning: Withdrawn Reference Standard. The primary test methods standard (D2939) referenced in this specification has been withdrawn. Engineers and specifiers must work with the contracting parties to establish alternative, validated test methods that can accurately verify compliance with the requirements of D1187/D1187M.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the difference between Type I and Type II emulsions?
Type I is a quick-setting emulsion designed to withstand continuous exposure to water within a few days of drying. Type II is formulated for long-term continuous exposure to the weather after it has dried and cured.
⚡ What are the critical application conditions?
The emulsion must be applied at a rate of 1.0 L/m² [2.5 gal/100 ft²] using a brush, mop, or trowel. Ambient and surface temperatures must be strictly above 10°C [50°F] to ensure proper handling and film formation.
📌 How is the stability of the emulsion verified in the lab?
A 200 g sample is mixed with a specific amount of Type III high-early-strength cement (25% of the emulsion weight). The cement must have a minimum specific surface area of 1900 cm²/g. The mixture is stirred for one minute, during which no coagulation is permitted.
💡 Can I mix SI and inch-pound units given in the standard?
No. The standard explicitly states that the values in each system are separate standards and are not exact equivalents. Combining values from the two systems will result in nonconformance with the specification.