Asphalt Binder Testing
WesTest is the only independent AASHTO Accredited asphalt binder testing laboratory in Colorado. As a premier asphalt testing facility, our accreditation includes all of the tests necessary to determine the Grade of Superpave Performance Graded (PG) Asphalt Binders in accordance with AASHTO M 320, Standard Specification for Performance-Graded Asphalt Binder.
We are accredited to perform the following asphalt binder tests:
- Superpave Performance Grade (PG) determination
- Penetration
- Kinematic viscosity
- Absolute viscosity
- Elastic recovery
- Ductility
We are also AASHTO accredited to recover binder from asphalt mixtures. This is done in accordance with AASHTO T 319, Standard Test Method for Quantitative Extraction of Asphalt Binder from Asphalt Mixtures.
This process can be used on:
- Asphalt cores
- Recycled Asphalt Pavement (RAP)
- Recycled Asphalt Shingles (RAS)
- Any combination of the above
Through rheologic testing, we can determine the grade of recovered. Asphalt testing information can be used to determine the grade of new binder to be added to aggregate, RAP and RAS combinations during production to meet the final Performance Grade specified. After performing a test and recovering the asphalt binder from hot mix asphalt cores, we determine the actual composite performance grade to determine specification compliance in-place.
Additionally we run percent residue by evaporation on asphalt emulsion.
For a complete list of the asphalt binder testing services we provide, and the tests we are AASHTO accredited for, please visit our Laboratory Testing Services page.
