scope:

This standard describes a procedure for the extraction and recovery of asphalt binder from asphalt mixtures [both hot mix asphalt (HMA) and reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP)] that have a minimal effect on the physical and chemical properties of the asphalt binder recovered. This standard is intended for use when the physical or chemical properties, or both, of the recovered asphalt binder are to be determined. It can also be used to determine the quantity of asphalt binder in the HMA or RAP. Recovered aggregate may be used for sieve analysis or other aggregate testing.

This method is applicable to HMA sampled from the pavement, RAP sampled from the pavement or stockpile, HMA plant production, or laboratory fabricated HMA.

This procedure may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This procedure 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 procedure to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

The quality of the results produced by this standard are dependent on the competence of the personnel performing the procedure and the capability, calibration, and maintenance of the equipment used. Agencies that meet the criteria of R 18 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with R 18 alone does not completely assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; following the suggestions of R 18 or some similar acceptable guideline provides a means of evaluating and controlling some of those factors.