D2726 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide

ASTM D2726/D2726M – 21 establishes the standard procedure for determining the bulk specific gravity (G_mb) and density of non-absorptive compacted asphalt mixtures. Administered by ASTM Subcommittee D04.21, this method is a cornerstone test for asphalt mixture design, production quality control, and field pavement density verification. It relies on the fundamental principles of water displacement under strictly controlled thermal conditions.

The applicability of this test method is strictly governed by the absorption characteristics of the specimen. It is exclusively intended for dense-graded mixtures where open or interconnected voids are minimal. The procedure requires careful calculation of water absorption; if this value exceeds the specified limit, the standard must not be used for that specimen.

📐 Specimen Requirements and Absorption Criteria

This standard applies specifically to compacted asphalt mixtures that do not contain open or interconnecting voids. The critical cut-off is when a specimen absorbs more than 2.0 % water by volume, as determined in Section 11.3 of the standard. Such specimens invalidate the water displacement principle of this test. Sampling must follow Practices D979/D979M (paving mixtures) or D5361/D5361M (compacted specimens).

© 2026 TNLab — This article is a technical interpretation for reference only. The original standard as published by ASTM International takes precedence.

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