Calculate the Bulk Specific Gravity (Gmb) and density of compacted asphalt based on ASTM D2726.
The calculations are based directly on the ASTM D2726 / AASHTO T 166 standards:
Where A, B, and C are the masses you input, and the density of water is ~62.4 lbs/ft³ or ~1000 kg/m³.
Given the following lab measurements:
Gmb = 2050.5 / (2055.0 - 1230.2) = 2050.5 / 824.8 ≈ 2.486
Density = 2.486 × 62.4 lbs/ft³ ≈ 155.1 lbs/ft³
The Asphalt Density Calculator is a specialized technical tool designed for civil engineers, lab technicians, and quality control inspectors in the paving industry. Its primary purpose is to provide a quick and accurate calculation of a compacted asphalt sample's Bulk Specific Gravity (Gmb) and density, strictly following the procedure outlined in the industry-standard test method ASTM D2726 / AASHTO T 166. This measurement is the cornerstone of quality assurance for asphalt pavements. It is the primary method used to verify that the asphalt mat laid in the field has been compacted to the level required by the project's engineering specifications.
The fundamental benefit of the Asphalt Density Calculator is its ability to streamline a critical quality control check. Proper compaction is essential for the long-term performance and durability of asphalt pavement. A poorly compacted mat will have excessive air voids, making it susceptible to water infiltration, oxidation, cracking, and deformation (rutting). By taking a core sample from the new pavement and using this calculator, an inspector can immediately determine if the contractor's work meets the required density, which is typically expressed as a percentage of the mix's Theoretical Maximum Density (TMD). The Asphalt Density Calculator automates the formula, eliminating manual calculation errors and providing instant, reliable results that can be used for project acceptance or to guide corrective actions in the field.
This tool requires three specific inputs derived from the physical testing of an asphalt specimen: its mass in a dry state, its mass in a Saturated-Surface-Dry (SSD) state, and its mass while submerged in water. The calculator uses these values to determine the specimen's volume via water displacement, which is then used to calculate its specific gravity and density. The results are provided in both imperial (lbs/ft³) and metric (kg/m³) units for universal applicability. For a deeper understanding of the test procedures and their significance, the official standards from ASTM International are the definitive source, while educational materials from bodies like the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) provide broader context on highway materials testing.
In essence, the Asphalt Density Calculator serves as a digital companion to a core physical lab test. It enhances efficiency and accuracy in the quality control workflow, helping to ensure that our roads and pavements are built to last. By simplifying the calculation, the Asphalt Density Calculator allows professionals to focus on the interpretation of the results: confirming that the pavement is dense, durable, and ready for service.
Explore all remaining calculators in this Basic Measurement category.
Explore specialized calculators for your industry and use case.
Bulk Specific Gravity is the ratio of the mass of a compacted asphalt sample to the mass of an equal volume of water. Crucially, the volume used includes the sample's internal air voids. It is a key property for determining the density and compaction level of pavement.
Gmb (Bulk Specific Gravity) represents the density of the asphalt including its air voids. Gmm (Theoretical Maximum Specific Gravity, or Rice Density) represents the density of the asphalt mixture with zero air voids. The ratio of Gmb to Gmm is used to calculate the percent compaction.
Density is a direct measure of how well the asphalt has been compacted. Proper compaction reduces air voids, which in turn increases the pavement's strength, fatigue life, and resistance to water damage, rutting, and cracking. It is one of the most critical factors for long-term pavement durability.
They are standard notations from ASTM D2726. A is the mass of the dry sample, B is the mass of the Saturated-Surface-Dry (SSD) sample, and C is the mass of the sample while submerged in water. These three measurements allow for the calculation of the sample's volume via water displacement.