This specification covers asphalt binders graded by performance. Grading designations are related to the average seven-day maximum pavement design temperature and the minimum pavement design temperature. This specification contains Table 1 and Table 2. 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.

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.

For specifying performance-graded asphalt binder using Multiple Stress Creep Recovery (MSCR), see AASHTO M 332.