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D2939-03 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
ASTM D2939-03 provides a comprehensive suite of standard test methods for evaluating emulsified bitumens intended for use as thick-film protective coatings. Developed under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D08 on Roofing and Waterproofing, these methods replace the previous standards D1010 and D1167 for these specific applications. The standard is organized into sections covering general properties for all coatings as well as specialized tests for metals, built-up roofs, and bituminous pavement applications.
🧪 Core Test Methods and Sampling Requirements
The standard prescribes fundamental sampling practices in accordance with ASTM D140, ensuring representative material is obtained for evaluation. All coatings must be tested for physical properties including Uniformity (Section 5), Resistance to Freezing (Section 6), Weight per Gallon (Section 7), Residue by Evaporation (Section 8) using a gravity-convection oven (E 145), Volatiles (Section 9), Ash Content (Section 10), and Water Content via distillation (Section 11, referencing D95). Safety characteristics are evaluated using the Pensky-Martens Closed Cup method (Section 12, referencing D93). The Drying Time (Section 13), Resistance to Heat (Section 14), Resistance to Water (Section 15), and Flexibility (Section 16) assess initial film formation, stability, and durability. Precision and bias considerations are outlined in Section 29, referencing Practice C670.
💡 Key Technical Note: The values stated in SI units are regarded as the standard in D2939-03. Testing requires careful attention to specimen preparation, such as the use of cold-rolled steel panels per Practice D609 for metal coating tests.
📊 Performance Metrics and Application-Specific Tests
Critical performance criteria are evaluated through a series of resistance and application tests tailored to the end-use environment. For coatings used over metals and built-up roofs, specific behavior tests include Brush-Application (Section 17), Spray-Application (Section 18), Wet Flow (Section 19), the Direct Flame Test (Section 20), and determination of Solubility of Residue in Trichloroethylene (Section 21). For coatings used over bituminous pavements, specialized tests include Wet Film Continuity (Section 22), Resistance to Volatilization (Section 23), Solubility in Carbon Disulfide (Section 24), and Resistance to Kerosine (Section 25), the latter specifically intended to evaluate resistance to fuel spills. Durability is validated via Impact Resistance (Section 26) and Impact Resistance after Accelerated Weathering using the Xenon-Arc Method (D 4798) or the Fluorescent UV Condensation Method (D 4799). The Aggregate (Sand) Content in Bituminous Emulsions is also determined in Section 28 specifically for pavement coatings.
| 🟦 Test Category | 📏 Applicable Sections | 🎯 Key Tests & Properties Evaluated | ⚡ Typical Apparatus / Standard Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Coatings | 4–16 | Uniformity, Residue, Flash Point, Ash Content, Drying Time, Flexibility | Pensky-Martens Tester (D 93), Gravity Oven (E 145) |
| Metals & Built-Up Roofs | 17–21 | Wet Flow, Direct Flame Test, Solubility in Trichloroethylene | Cold-Rolled Steel Panels (D 609) |
| Bituminous Pavements | 22–28 | Resistance to Kerosine, Impact Resistance, Sand Content | Xenon-Arc (D 4798) / UV Condensation (D 4799) |
⚠️ Safety Advisory: Section 1.4 of the standard emphasizes that it does not address all safety concerns. The Direct Flame Test (Section 20) and flash point determinations (Section 12) require strict adherence to established safety and health practices. Users must determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the scope of ASTM D2939-03?
These test methods cover procedures for sampling and testing emulsified bitumens used in relatively thick films as protective coatings for metals, built-up roofs, and bituminous pavements. It replaces the older standards D1010 and D1167 for these specific applications.
💡 How is the water content of the emulsion determined?
The Water Content is determined according to Section 11, which references ASTM Test Method D95, Test Method for Water in Petroleum Products and Bituminous Materials by Distillation.
⚡ Which solvents are specified for the solubility of residue tests?
For coatings used over metals and built-up roofs, Trichloroethylene is specified (Section 21). For coatings used over bituminous pavements, Carbon Disulfide is specified (Section 24) to assess bitumen purity and composition.
📌 What standard is used for accelerated weathering of the coatings?
The standard references Test Method D4798 (Xenon-Arc Method) and D4799 (Fluorescent UV Condensation Method) for simulating long-term environmental exposure prior to impact testing in Section 27.