What should be done if the fresh asphalt is too hot to core?

When fresh asphalt is too hot for coring, using bags of ice is an effective method to cool it down quickly and safely. The application of ice directly onto the surface of the asphalt helps to lower its temperature rapidly, which makes it feasible to conduct core sampling without compromising the material’s integrity or creating hazards associated with handling overly hot asphalt.

This method is preferred because it achieves rapid cooling, enabling the coring process to proceed promptly and without extended delays that can result from waiting. It is also more controllable than using a large volume of cold water, which could potentially saturate the surface or disrupt the asphalt's properties. Cooling naturally, while an option, may take too long, risking delays in necessary testing and construction schedules. Simply waiting until the next day to core would not be practical, as freshly laid asphalt should be tested as soon as possible to ensure quality and adherence to specifications.