ASTM D71-24 PDF

Full title and description

Standard Test Method for Relative Density of Solid Pitch and Asphalt (Displacement Method) — ASTM D71-24. This procedure describes determination of relative density (specific gravity) of hard pitches and asphalts by a water-displacement (buoyancy) technique suitable for materials with softening points above 70 °C.

Abstract

ASTM D71-24 specifies a displacement (water-bath) test in which a homogeneous fragment of solid pitch or asphalt is weighed in air and then weighed while submerged in water at the specified temperature (typically 25.0 °C). The relative density (specific gravity) is calculated from the measured masses. The method is intended for hard pitches and asphalts and emphasizes specimen selection to avoid cracks or trapped air.

General information

• Status: Active.
• Publication date: Published 2024 (designation D71-24; ASTM record shows updates in May 2024).
• Publisher: ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials).
• ICS / categories: 91.100.50 (Binders, sealing materials); 93.080.20 (Road construction materials).
• Edition / version: D71-24 (current active version).
• Number of pages: 3 pages (concise test method).

Scope

This test method covers the determination of relative density by water displacement of hard pitches and asphalts having softening points above 70 °C. It applies to homogeneous natural fragments free of cracks; the use of cast cubes is not recommended because of the risk of entrapped air. Results are reported in SI units. Users are advised to observe appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices.

Key topics and requirements

• Applicability: hard pitches and asphalts with softening points > 70 °C.
• Specimen selection: use homogeneous, crack-free natural fragments; avoid cast specimens to minimize entrapped air.
• Measurement technique: weigh specimen in air and while immersed in water (buoyancy displacement) at the specified temperature (commonly 25.0 °C).
• Calculation: relative density (specific gravity) derived from the mass-in-air and apparent mass-in-water (Archimedes principle).
• Reporting: SI units are the standard; report method version (D71-24) and test temperature.
• Precision/limitations: intended for routine characterization and quality control; not all safety concerns are covered—users must follow lab safety and local regulations.

Typical use and users

Used by asphalt and pitch producers, materials testing laboratories, quality control/assurance teams, procurement/specification engineers, and research groups studying binder properties. The method supports shipment verification, source uniformity checks, and comparative material characterization.

Related standards

Commonly referenced/related ASTM tests for bituminous materials and density/softening measurements include: ASTM D3289 (density of semi-solid and solid bituminous materials — crucible/weight methods), ASTM D36 (softening point of bitumen, ring-and-ball), ASTM D5/D5M (penetration of bituminous materials), and ASTM D70/D70M (specific gravity and density of semi-solid asphalt binder — pycnometer method). These methods are complementary and used depending on material state and the required measurement technique.

Keywords

relative density, specific gravity, displacement method, water displacement, pitch, asphalt, bitumen, D71-24, ASTM, softening point, density test

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D71-24 is the Standard Test Method for Relative Density of Solid Pitch and Asphalt (Displacement Method), providing a procedure to determine specific gravity of hard pitch and asphalt by weighing in air and when submerged in water.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers the water-displacement determination of relative density for homogeneous, solid pitch and asphalt specimens with softening points above 70 °C, including specimen selection guidance, measurement steps, calculation, and reporting in SI units.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Materials testing laboratories, asphalt/pitch manufacturers, QA/QC personnel, specification engineers, procurement teams, and researchers working with solid bituminous materials.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: D71-24 is the current, active version (2024). It supersedes earlier editions of D71 (the method has prior editions/reapprovals, e.g., the 1994 designation and later reapprovals) — users should cite the D71-24 designation when reporting results.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is part of ASTM's suite of bituminous/asphalt test methods maintained by Committee D02 (Subcommittee D02.05) and appears in the ASTM Annual Book (Book of Standards volume covering petroleum products and related tests). D71 complements other D04/D02 series methods for binder characterization.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Relative density; specific gravity; displacement; water displacement; pitch; asphalt; bitumen; D71-24; softening point; density test.