5.1 This test method can be used to test asphalt mixtures in conjunction with mixture design testing to determine the potential for moisture damage, to determine whether or not an antistripping additive is effective, and to determine what dosage of an additive is needed to maximize the effectiveness. This test method can also be used to test mixtures produced in plants to determine the effectiveness of additives under the conditions imposed in the field.

Note 1: 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 Specification D3666 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing, sampling, inspection, etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Specification D3666 alone does not completely ensure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; following the suggestions of Specification D3666 or some similar acceptable guideline provides a means of evaluating and controlling some of those factors.

1.1 This test method covers procedures for preparing and testing laboratory-compacted asphalt mixture specimens for the purpose of measuring the effect of water on the tensile strength of the paving mixture. This test method is applicable to dense mixtures such as those appearing in the Table for Composition of Bituminous Paving Mixtures in Specification D3515. This test method can be used to evaluate the effect of moisture with or without antistripping additives including liquids and pulverulent solids such as hydrated lime or portland cement.

1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units in brackets shall be regarded separately as standard. The values in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independently of the other, without combining values in any way.

1.3 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.

1.4 This standard 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 standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.