This test method is a measure of the solubility of asphalt in n-propyl bromide. The portion that is soluble in n-propyl bromide represents the active cementing constituents.

Note 2—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 D 3666 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Specification D 3666 alone does not completely assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; following the suggestions of Specification D 3666 or some similar acceptable guideline provides a means of evaluating and controlling some of these factors.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the degree of solubility in n-propyl bromide of asphalt materials. It is intended to be a replacement for method D 2042 specifying a solvent that, like trichloroethylene, is safe in that it has no flash point, and has similar solubilizing characteristics to trichloroethylene, but it is not considered to be an ozone depleter banned by the Kyoto Protocol. Since a complete precision statement for this test method has not yet been developed, this test method should not be used for buying and selling purposes until the complete precision statement is available.

Note 1—This method is not applicable to tars and their distillation residues or highly cracked petroleum products. For methods covering tars, pitches, and other highly cracked petroleum products, and the use of other solvents, see Test Methods D 4, D 2318, and D 2764.

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 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precaution statements are given in Section 7.