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D1370 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
ASTM D1370/D1370M – 12 (Reapproved 2021) defines the standard test method for evaluating the contact compatibility between asphaltic materials, commonly known as the Oliensis Test. Primarily utilized in the roofing industry, this method assesses the interaction between saturants and coatings to predict potential product failures such as blistering.
🧪 Purpose and Significance of the Oliensis Test
The purpose of this test method is to provide a standardized means for evaluating contact compatibility between asphaltic materials. According to the standard, it is generally used to determine compatibility between the saturant and coating used in the manufacture of prepared roofings. The procedure assesses the degree to which asphalts interact with one another. A positive indication of incompatibility suggests possible future problems in a roofing product, most notably blistering, caused by the interaction of incompatible asphalts in contact within the product.
💡 Scope Note: While the test method specifically refers to “saturant” and “coating,” it notes that comparable asphaltic materials may be tested where this procedure seems applicable. This test determines only exudative incompatibility.
⚙️ Apparatus, Materials, and Required Tolerances
The reliability of the Oliensis Test depends heavily on strict adherence to the specified apparatus and material conditions. The following critical equipment is required to ensure consistent results:
| 🟦 Apparatus / Material | 📏 Specification or Tolerance |
|---|---|
| Container | Lid of an 85-g [3-oz] ointment box, or equivalent |
| Analytical Balance | Accuracy of ±1.0 mg |
| Sieve | 45 µm (No. 325) per Specification E11 |
| Dropping Device | Fine wire, 1.0 mm [0.04 in.] in diameter |
| Oven | Constant-temperature, tolerance of ±1.0 °C [±1.8 °F] |
| Small Scale | Graduated in 0.1 mm divisions |
| Magnifying Glass | Stereo microscope or glass, minimum 4× |
| Talc (Soapstone) | At least 70 % passes 45 µm sieve; oven-dried at 110 °C [230 °F] |
⚡ Critical Note on Talc Consistency: When this test is used in purchase specifications, both the purchaser and the seller must use the same talc. Talc from Luzenac America, Inc. has been found to be suitable for this test. Variations in talc source can significantly affect the test results.
📋 Test Procedure and Interpretation of Results
The test involves placing a small drop of the molten saturant on the freshly talced surface of the coating. The assembly is then subjected to the standard test temperature in the oven. Compatibility is judged by the degree to which an oily ring, or exudate, develops in the talc surrounding the saturant drop. This exudation indicates the migration of lighter fractions between the asphalts.
| 🎯 Observed Result | ⚡ Interpretation |
|---|---|
| No visible oily ring or a very light trace | Good contact compatibility; materials are unlikely to interact adversely |
| Wide, distinct, or heavy oily ring | Contact incompatibility; elevated potential for blistering and delamination in the final product |
The formation of a distinct oily ring signifies exudative incompatibility. This test method is specifically designed to identify this type of interaction, which is a primary concern in the performance of built-up and modified bitumen roofing systems.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the Oliensis Test used for?
ASTM D1370, or the Oliensis Test, is used to evaluate the contact compatibility between asphaltic materials. It is specifically designed to predict whether a roofing saturant and coating will interact adversely, potentially leading to product blistering.
💡 How is compatibility judged in this test?
A small drop of molten saturant is placed on the freshly talced surface of a coating. After heating, the sample is examined for the development of an oily ring in