5.1 The viscosity of emulsified asphalts characterizes their flow properties and affects their utility at 50 °C or at other temperatures. The sprayability and workability of an emulsified asphalt are directly related to its viscosity for many applications. The material must be thin enough to be sprayed yet thick enough such that it will not flow from the crown or grade of the road. For mixing-grade emulsified asphalts, the viscosity will affect its workability and resulting film thickness on the aggregate. This test method is useful to measure the apparent viscosity of emulsified asphalt at a temperature of 50 °C, 25 °C, or another agreed-upon temperature. The preset temperature and rotational speed at 100 r/min allow for an automated and consistent determination of an emulsified asphalt viscosity within a short time.

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 utilizes the rotational paddle viscometer to measure the viscosity of emulsified asphalt. It is applicable to all the emulsified asphalts described in Specifications D977 and D2397/D2397M.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.3 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.

1.4 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.