scope:

This method covers the determination of the effect of heat and air on a film of semisolid asphaltic materials. The effects of this treatment are determined from measurements of selected asphalt properties before and after the test.

The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents, therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard.

Warning-Mercury has been designated by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and many state agencies as a hazardous material that can cause central nervous system, kidney, and liver damage. Mercury, or its vapor, may be hazardous to health and corrosive to materials. Caution should be taken when handling mercury and mercury-containing products. See the applicable material safety data sheet (MSDS) for details and EPA's website for additional information. Users should be aware that selling mercury and/or mercury-containing products into your state may be prohibited by state law. (Also see Fed. Std. No 29, CFR 1910.1200.)

This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns 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.

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.