4.1 This test is used for determining the amount of inorganic or non-organic materials in an asphalt or emulsified asphalt residue. The emulsified asphalt residue can be obtained by methods such as Test Methods D6934 and D6997, Practice D7497, AASHTO R78, or other agency-specified methods. This test may be useful as an alternative to solubility tests when a confounding material creates an interference to the solubility test being performed acceptably. An example of an interfering material is a polymer which may be incompatible with the solubility test solvent and plug the filter.

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 measures the ash content of an asphalt or emulsified asphalt residue.

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, 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.