Patent ID: 6207462
Filing Date: 2001-03-27
Classification: G01N,Y10T

Abstract:
A method of analyzing the aggregate content of asphalt-aggregate compositions, the method comprising:heating a furnace with a preweighed container carrying a sample of an asphalt-aggregate composition therein by directing microwave radiation at microwave adsorbent materials in the furnace;initiating a first draw of air through the furnace at a rate that avoids impeding the heating of the furnace or the sample until the sample in the container reaches combustion and the combustion of the sample becomes exothermic;initiating a second draw of air around rather than through the furnace to moderate the exterior temperature of the furnace and prevent an uncontrolled temperature rise in the furnace and the sample;moderating the first draw of air through the furnace to increase the rate of combustion of the exothermic reaction until the exothermic reaction is complete; andreweighing the container and sample after combustion is complete.