SAMPLING BITUMINOUS MATERIALS
AASHTO T 40
SUMMARY OF PROCEDURE
Containers
Asphalt Materials (except Emulsions) -- double friction - top cans, square cans with screw tops,
or small mount cans with screw caps
Emulsions -- widemouth jars or bottles made of glass or plastic
Sample Location
Bulk Storage Tanks -- approved sampling valves located in tank or line
Distributor -- approved sampling valve
HMA Plant Storage Tanks -- approved sampling valve located in tank
Transports -- approved sampling valve
Sample Size
Asphalt Materials (except Emulsions) -- 1 qt (1.0 L)
Emulsions -- 1/2 gal. (1.9 L)
Procedure
1. Allow at least 1 gallon (4 liters) of asphalt material to drain out of the valve before taking
samples. This cleans out the valve and the lines and helps to provide a representative
sample.
2. Seal filled containers immediately with clean, dry, tight fitting lids. Wipe any spilled
material from the container with a clean, dry cloth; NEVER with a cloth dipped or soaked
in solvent
3. Label all containers clearly. Do no label container lids, because once the labeled lid is
removed, it will be difficult to identify the sample in the container. Do all labeling with a
wick marking pen. Use tags only when there is no danger of their being lost in transit
NOTE: Follow all safety precautions for handling and storing hot asphalt materials.
Asphalt material is hot when sampled, so protective clothing (gloves, face shield,
long-sleeved shirt) should be worn to protect from burns and splattering.
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