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QCML Criteria for Asphalt Release Agents

This criteria was qualified by MassDOT as of the date posted: October 3, 2023

For an Asphalt Release Agent (ARA) to be listed on the Qualified Construction Materials List (QCML), a product must be evaluated by AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions (formerly known as NTPEP) and meet the requirements of Subsection M3.01.6 of MassDOT’s Standard Specifications.

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Material Properties

Asphalt Release Agents refer to chemical products that are applied to equipment surfaces to prevent asphalt buildup and bonding.

  • The asphalt release agent shall not be detrimental to the HMA and shall not dissolve asphalt binder when applied to the truck bed. 
  • The manufacturer of the Asphalt Release Agent must certify that the product is in accordance with M3.01.6.
  • The Manufacturer shall furnish information for any dilution requirements, including the minimum dilution rate and special application requirements. 

Submittal and Testing Requirements

MassDOT Research & Materials (RMS) shall evaluate the AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions data. The following criteria must be met as part of the product submission: 

  • AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions testing shall show: 
    • 7-Day Stripping Test
      • No stripping or discoloration occurred when used in full strength and diluted strength forms.
      • Any change in color of liquid, visual stripping of asphalt, or mass loss/gain greater than 0.2% shall be reason for rejection.
    • Asphalt Pull Off Test 
      • The lowest pull number reported of the three trials must be 4 or greater.
    • Flashpoint
      • Have a flash point greater than 400°F on the undiluted product. 

Manufacturers may request MassDOT evaluation once the AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions testing cycle is complete. The following criteria must be met as part of the product submission: 

  • Manufacturer/supplier shall submit a 1-gallon sample and the Safety Data Sheet with the application to RMS. Send material to:
    • MassDOT Research and Materials
      Attn: Technical Services
      5 Macadam Rd.
      Hopkinton, MA 01748

Product Listing, Expiration, and Re-Approval

Once approved, the ARA will be listed on the MassDOT QCML. The product shall remain on the approved list for five (5) years unless one of the following occurs: 

  • If the manufacturer does not have the product reevaluated by AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions Testing in accordance with the AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions Testing ARA workplan. 
  • If the product’s technology changes.
    • If the product formulation or technology changes, the manufacturer shall notify MassDOT RMS. 
    • Manufacturers must resubmit products to AASHTO Product Evaluation & Audit Solutions Testing for testing upon any reformulation of the product.
    • MassDOT RMS determines that the product no longer meets the minimum requirements. 

A written request for re-approval must be submitted to the Department at least 60 days prior to the expiration date for the product to remain on the QCML.

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