ASTM D2171/D2171M-22 PDF

Full title and description

ASTM D2171/D2171M-22 — Standard Test Method for Viscosity of Asphalts by Vacuum Capillary Viscometer. This document specifies procedures, apparatus, sample preparation, test conditions, calculations, and reporting requirements for determining the apparent viscosity of asphalt binders (bitumen) using vacuum capillary viscometers, primarily at 60 °C (140 °F).

Abstract

This standard describes the vacuum capillary viscometer technique for measuring the apparent viscosity of asphalt binders. It defines required apparatus and capillary dimensions, sample conditioning, test temperature and pressure conditions, calculation of viscosity from measured flow times and pressures, and reporting conventions in SI and inch–pound units. The method includes precision statements and notes limitations for non‑Newtonian or modified binders where shear‑rate dependence may affect results.

General information

• Status: Active
• Publication date: November 1, 2022
• Publisher: ASTM International
• ICS / categories: 91.100.50 (Binders, sealing materials); 93.080.20 (Road construction materials)
• Edition / version: D2171/D2171M-22
• Number of pages: 10

Scope

The standard covers procedures for determining the apparent viscosity of asphalt binders by vacuum capillary viscometers at 60 °C (140 °F), and is applicable to materials with viscosities ranging from about 0.0036 to over 20 000 Pa·s (0.036 to over 200 000 P). It is suitable for use at other temperatures but precision statements are based on results at 60 °C. The method notes limitations when applied to modified or recovered binders that exhibit non‑Newtonian flow, and describes how such behavior may invalidate shear‑rate assumptions inherent to the capillary technique.

Key topics and requirements

• Measurement principle: vacuum-driven flow through a calibrated capillary and conversion of flow data to apparent viscosity.
• Test temperature: primary reference temperature 60 °C (140 °F); procedures for temperature control and thermometry.
• Apparatus: vacuum capillary viscometer assembly, capillary tube dimensions, pressure/vacuum source, thermometer, and related fixtures.
• Sample preparation and conditioning: melting, homogenization, deaeration, and temperature equilibration requirements to ensure representative results.
• Calculation and units: formulas for converting measured times and pressures to viscosity; presentation in SI and inch–pound units (D2171/D2171M dual designation).
• Precision and bias: repeatability/reproducibility guidance and limitations; precision established for typical asphalt binders at the reference temperature.
• Limitations: guidance on non‑Newtonian behavior for modified binders and how capillary dimensions or differing pressure heads can indicate shear‑rate dependence.
• Safety and handling: general laboratory safety and handling precautions for hot, viscous materials and equipment (users must follow applicable safety regulations and MSDS guidance for materials used).

Typical use and users

Used by testing laboratories, quality control/quality assurance personnel at asphalt production facilities, state and local departments of transportation, pavement research organizations, and materials engineers. Typical applications include binder characterization for mix design and specification compliance, production QC, comparative research of binder formulations, and verification of properties for paving and roofing applications.

Related standards

Standards commonly referenced alongside D2171/D2171M include other asphalt binder test methods and specifications such as ASTM D4402 (rotational viscosity), ASTM D5 (penetration of bituminous materials), ASTM D36 (softening point), ASTM D6373 (performance‑graded asphalt binder specification), and equivalent AASHTO test methods. Users often consult companion precision/research reports and committee guidance from ASTM Committee D04 (Road and Paving Materials).

Keywords

asphalt, bitumen, viscosity, vacuum capillary viscometer, apparent viscosity, 60 °C, capillary tube, viscometer, pavement, binder, D2171

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: It is ASTM D2171/D2171M-22, the test method that defines how to measure the apparent viscosity of asphalt binders using vacuum capillary viscometers.

Q: What does it cover?

A: The standard covers apparatus, sample preparation, test procedure, calculations, units, reporting, precision, and limitations (notably for non‑Newtonian or modified binders) for viscosity determinations—primarily at 60 °C (140 °F).

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Testing laboratories, asphalt producers, pavement engineers, DOT materials labs, and research organizations use it for binder characterization, QC/QA, and research.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: As designated, D2171/D2171M-22 is the 2022 edition. It is the current active edition published on November 1, 2022. Users should verify any later revisions or amendments with ASTM if they need the very latest version.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: Yes. D2171 is part of the ASTM family of asphalt binder test methods maintained by Committee D04 (Road and Paving Materials). The D2171/D2171M dual designation indicates both SI and inch–pound units are covered in the same document.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Asphalt, bitumen, viscosity, vacuum capillary, viscometer, apparent viscosity, pavement, binder, 60 °C.