ASTM D2170

General

The asphalt is dissolved in a suitable solvent to produce a test solution, and the viscosity is determined under precisely controlled temperature conditions. The method is widely used for quality control, product specification, and research involving paving and industrial asphalts.

Precision

ASTM D2170 includes repeatability (r) and reproducibility (R) values established through interlaboratory testing. The precision depends on the viscosity range and proper preparation of the asphalt solution. Accurate temperature control, calibrated viscometers, and careful sample preparation are essential for obtaining reliable and reproducible results.

Test

The method determines the kinematic viscosity of an asphalt solution by measuring the time required for the solution to flow through a calibrated capillary viscometer under the influence of gravity.

Reported result:

Kinematic viscosity

Unit:

Square millimetres per second (mm²/s), equivalent to centistokes (cSt)

Higher kinematic viscosity values indicate greater resistance to flow and are used to characterize the consistency and processing properties of asphalt materials.