ASTM D5361
Full Name
ASTM D5361 – Standard Practice for Sampling Compacted Asphalt Mixtures for Laboratory Testing
Scope
ASTM D5361 provides a standardized procedure for sampling compacted asphalt mixtures from pavements for laboratory testing. This practice ensures consistent and reliable sample collection, which is crucial for accurate assessment of pavement properties and performance. Whether you’re evaluating pavement thickness, density, strength, or composition, adhering to ASTM D5361 is essential for obtaining representative samples.
Key aspects of ASTM D5361:
- Scope: this practice covers the removal of compacted asphalt samples for various laboratory tests. It addresses both coring and sawing methods for sample extraction.
- Sampling methods – two primary methods are outlined:
- Core drilling: a core drill with a hardened steel or diamond-tipped bit is used to extract cylindrical samples. The standard recommends a minimum diameter of 100 mm (4 inches) for the core. For resilient or dynamic modulus testing, the core must be a right cylinder with perpendicular ends.
- Sawing: a power saw with a hardened metal, diamond-tipped, or abrasive blade is used to cut samples. The minimum surface area for sawed samples is 10,000 mm² (16 in²). The standard emphasizes minimizing disturbance to sample density during sawing.
- Equipment: the standard specifies the use of power equipment (core drill or power saw) to minimize sample distortion. Cooling methods, such as water, dry ice, or liquid nitrogen, are often necessary during the cutting process. Lifting devices are recommended for removing cores to prevent damage.
- Sampling plan: the plan should specify whether samples are taken near pavement edges or construction joints, where density can be lower. While visual inspection might identify areas requiring additional sampling, the standard cautions against deviating from the random sampling plan in statistically based quality control programs.
- Sample size: the standard provides minimum size requirements for both cored and sawed samples. Larger samples may be necessary if test results are erratic or biased due to sample size.
- Applications – samples obtained according to ASTM D5361 can be used to determine a wide range of pavement properties, including:
- Thickness
- Density
- Resilient or dynamic modulus
- Tensile strength
- Marshall or Hveem stability
- Asphalt content
- Asphalt properties
- Mix gradation
Following ASTM D5361 ensures the quality and reliability of test results. By using standardized procedures and appropriate equipment, the practice minimizes sample variability and provides representative samples for accurate pavement evaluation. This information is critical for quality control, performance prediction, and informed decision-making in pavement construction and maintenance. The standard also emphasizes the importance of competent personnel and properly calibrated and maintained equipment for reliable results.
ASTM D5361 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the ASTM D5361 standard.
Contact us today to discuss your testing needs and ensure the quality and performance of your asphalt pavements.
Resources
Keywords
compacted asphalt mixture; pavement sampling; coring asphalt pavement; sawing asphalt pavement; sampling equipment; laboratory testing; asphalt pavement; bituminous mixture; compacted bituminous paving mixtures; bituminous paving mixtures; pavement surfaces; sampling bituminous materials; coring bituminous pavement; sawing bituminous pavement; asphalt