AASHTO R 59

Abstract

This practice covers the recovery, by the Abson Method, of asphalt binder from a previously conducted extraction with reagent-grade trichloroethylene or reagent-grade methylene chloride (Note 1). The asphalt binder is recovered with properties substantially the same as those it possessed in the asphalt mixture and in quantity sufficient for further testing. <br><strong>Note 1&#8212;</strong>Trichloroethylene conforming to ASTM D 4080 or technical grade methylene chloride may be used, but it is recommended that for each new supply of the solvent a "blank" recovery as described below be performed on an asphalt binder of known properties. Certain epoxy resins in some non-reagent grade solvents may affect the properties of the recovered binder. In case of dispute, reagent grade should be used. <br><em>Blank Determinations</em>&#8212;Introduce about 75 to 100 g of asphalt binder into a 2000-mL (68-oz) flask; add about 800 mL (27 oz) of solvent to dissolve the asphalt. Allow the solution to stand for about 4 h; concentrate the solution by distillation to about 200 mL (6.8 oz), and then recover the asphalt binder. The total elapsed time, from when the solvent is added to the time the recovery test is completed, is about 7 h. <br>The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. <br><em>This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.</em>