This specification covers asphalt binders graded by performance. Grading designations are related to the average seven-day maximum pavement design and minimum pavement design temperatures. This specification contains Table 1, Table 2, and Table 3. If no table is specified, the default is Table 1.

Table 2 incorporates AASHTO R 49 for determining the critical low cracking temperature using a combination of AASHTO T 313 and T 314 test procedures.

Table 3 incorporates AASHTO TP 70 (MSCR) for determining non-recoverable creep compliance, Jnr. For Table 3, “S”, “H”, or “V” grade must be specified for standard, high, or very high traffic loading, respectively.

For asphalt cements graded by viscosity at 60°C, see AASHTO M 226.

AASHTO R 29 provides information for determining the performance grade of an asphalt binder.