What is BS EN 12697-7 - bulk density of bituminous specimens by gamma rays about?
Knowing the density of bitumen helps you to assess the strength and durability of the paving. BS EN 12697-7 is the seventh part of the ‘bituminous mixtures – Test methods for hot mix asphalt’ multi-series. BS EN 12697-7 specifies a method for measuring the bulk density of pavement mixtures using a transmission-type gamma radiation test bench.
The applicability of BS EN 12697-7 is described in the product standards for bituminous mixtures.
The safety regulations applicable to the use of gamma rays should be applied.
BS EN 12697-7 applies to cylindrical specimens or blocks, prepared in a laboratory or cut from the pavement, the thickness and the mass absorption coefficient which is a function of the chemical composition are known. The thickness of the specimen body traversed by the radiation shall be between 30 mm and 300 mm.
Note: The method cannot be applied to materials containing slags, with variable metal content or chemical composition which may affect the absorption of gamma rays.
Who is BS EN 12697-7 - bulk density of bituminous specimens by gamma rays for?
BS EN 12697-7 on the determination of bulk density of bituminous specimens by gamma rays is useful for:
- Airport authorities
- Road maintenance authorities
- Real estate developers who maintain roads and pavements within complexes
- Manufacturers and suppliers of bituminous mixtures
- Suppliers of construction materials
- Construction and civil engineers
- Contractors
- Testing laboratories
- Product designers/innovation teams
- Quality control personnel
Why should you use BS EN 12697-7 - bulk density of bituminous specimens by gamma rays?
Bulk density measurement in the laboratory using gamma rays is a method that does not affect the properties of the material. BS EN 12697-7 can be included in a series of tests carried out on a given sample. BS EN 12697-7 allows the plotting of a density chart or gradient.
The test methods given in BS EN 12697-7 are designed for use with laboratory compacted materials or specimens taken from the pavement following coring or sawing. BS EN 12697-7 can assist you in preventing specimen damage throughout the separation procedure.
With BS EN 12697-6, the bulk density of the samples can be checked to ensure that the air voids content is within the method's stated range.
BS EN 12697-6 guidelines help you assess the quality and performance of the asphalt. This enhances the durability and service life of roads and pavements.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN 12697-7:2014 supersedes BS EN 12697-7:2002 which is withdrawn. BS EN 12697-7:2014 includes some technical changes with respect to BS EN 12697-7:2002. These include:
- Changed the consistency of the calibration coefficient k from “0,001” to “0,005”
- Corrected Formulae (4) and (5)
