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D2028 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📋 Scope and Application
This specification covers cutback petroleum asphalts of the rapid-curing type, designated as RC grades, for use in the construction and treatment of pavements. The material must not foam when heated to application temperature and shall conform to the requirements prescribed in Table 1. Values are stated in either SI units or inch-pound units, each system to be used independently to avoid nonconformance.
⚙️ Test Methods and Procedures
Sampling shall be in accordance with Practice D140/D140M. The following ASTM test methods are used to determine the required properties:
- Flash Point (Tag Open-Cup) – Test Method D3143/D3143M
- Kinematic Viscosity – Test Method D2170/D2170M
- Viscosity at 60°C [140°F] – Test Method D2171/D2171M
- Distillation – Test Method D402/D402M
- Penetration – Test Method D5/D5M
- Ductility – Test Method D113
- Solubility in Trichloroethylene or N-Propyl Bromide – Test Method D2042/D7553
- Water – Test Method D95
Note: For distillation, if a 100‑mL graduate does not permit sufficiently close readings, receivers graduated in 0.1‑mL divisions shall be used.
📊 Key Property Specifications
Table 1 of the standard lists requirements for each RC grade. Key properties include viscosity, flash point, distillation yield, and residue penetration. Typical values are shown below:
| 🟦 Grade | 📏 Viscosity @ 60°C (Stokes) | 🎯 Flash Point (°C min) | ⚡ Penetration of Residue (dmm min) |
|---|---|---|---|
| RC-70 | 70–140 | 26.7 | 40 |
| RC-250 | 250–500 | 37.8 | 40 |
| RC-800 | 800–1600 | 37.8 | 40 |
| RC-3000 | 3000–6000 | 37.8 | 40 |
Refer to ASTM D2028 for complete specifications, including distillation percentages and additional requirements.
⚠️ Important: The values in SI and inch‑pound units are not exact equivalents. Always use the units system independently per the standard to ensure compliance.
💡 Tip: When conducting the distillation test per D402/D402M, use graduated receivers with 0.1‑mL divisions if greater accuracy is required, as noted in the standard.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the official designation of this standard?
The standard is designated as D2028/D2028M – 15 (Reapproved 2021). An editorial note updated Section 1 in December 2021.
💡 What materials are covered by this specification?
This specification covers rapid‑curing type cutback petroleum asphalts (RC grades) used in pavement construction and treatment.
⚡ Which test method is used for viscosity at 60°C?
Viscosity at 60°C is determined using Test Method D2171/D2171M, the vacuum capillary viscometer method.
📌 Why is the distillation test specified?
Distillation determines the solvent content and residue properties, which control the curing time and performance of the cutback asphalt.