ASTM D6931 – Indirect Tensile (IDT) Strength of Asphalt Mixtures

ASTM D6931 is the ASTM test method for the indirect tensile (IDT) strength of asphalt mixtures. It covers the preparation and testing of laboratory-fabricated specimens or field-recovered cores of asphalt mixture to determine IDT strength, with SI units as the standard units.

ASTM describes IDT strength values as a way to help evaluate the relative quality of asphalt mixtures, used together with mix design or other mechanical tests. When specimens are tested both moisture-conditioned and unconditioned under ASTM D4867/D4867M, the results can indicate the potential for moisture damage in the field. ASTM also notes that result quality depends on the competence of the personnel and on the calibration and maintenance of the equipment, with ASTM D3666 as guidance.

IDT testing is carried out on a laboratory loading frame that applies a controlled load to the asphalt specimen and records the peak force. Our MULTISPEED digital automatic universal tester supports testing to ASTM D6931. If you need help matching ASTM D6931 requirements to your parts or setup, contact our team.