Abstract: An apparatus for pyrolysis of a sample of a composite material containing a combustible binder includes a combustion chamber configured to receive a sample of the composite material and having an outlet. A heater is associated with the combustion chamber for heating the chamber to a temperature sufficient for pyrolysis of the binder. A blower is in fluid communication with the combustion chamber for creating an airflow through the outlet to remove airborne pyrolysis products from the combustion chamber. An adjustable airflow regulator is operable to adjustably control the airflow to provide a desired minimum residence time within the combustion chamber sufficient for complete pyrolysis of the airborne pyrolysis byproducts.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for testing rutting susceptibility of test specimens. The apparatus includes a specimen holder having cavities for receiving one or more test specimens having an exposed surface for testing. A load bearing surface is positioned above the specimens to prevent friction from effecting the rutting analysis. A load device including at least one loading wheel is positioned adjacent the specimen holder wherein the loading wheels matingly engage the load bearing device. A motive sources provides relative rotational movement between the specimen holder and the loading wheels whereby a load is repeatedly applied to the test specimens under a constant velocity. The method includes testing rutting susceptibility of test specimens by providing a rotational load thereupon whereby the load reflects a linear or constant load across the predetermined path of travel of the loading wheels over the exposed surface of the test specimens.

Abstract: An apparatus for compacting a material sample, such as paving material, including a cylindrical compaction mold and a mold support arranged to support one end of the mold. The mold support includes a turntable mounted for rotation about a rotational axis and a pair of mold-engaging members, such as rollers, extending from the turntable to engage the mold along its periphery and impart a gyratory motion to the mold as the turntable rotates. A mold retainer is also provided that includes a plurality of mold restraints spaced apart from one another about a central axis and arranged to engage the mold about the mold periphery at the end of the mold opposite the mold support. One of the mold restraints is attached to a movable latch that moves the mold restraint between an open position and a closed position. The open position locates the mold restraint out of engagement with the mold to allow the mold to slide into position inside the compactor apparatus.