ASTM D2974

This test method can be used to determine the moisture content, ash content, and percent organic matter in soil.

The percent organic matter is important in the following: (1) classifying peat or other organic soil, (2) geotechnical and general classification purposes, and (3) when peats are being evaluated as a fuel

Note 1—The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D 3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D 3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D 3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.

1. Scope

1.1 These test methods cover the measurement of moisture content, ash content, and organic matter in peats and other organic soils, such as organic clays, silts, and mucks.

1.1.1 Method A – moisture is determined by drying peat or organic sample at 105 °C.

1.1.2 Method B – Alternative moisture method which removes the total moisture in two steps: (1) evaporation of moisture at room temperature, (2) subsequent oven drying of air dried sample at 105 °C.

1.1.3 Method C – Ash content of a peat or organic soil sample is determined by igniting oven dried sample from moisture content determination in a muffle furnace at 440 °C.

1.1.4 Method D – Ash content of a peat or organic soil sample is determined by igniting oven dried sample from moisture content determination in a muffle furnace at 750 °C.

1.2 This test method should be used for geotechnical and general classification. In addition, the test method should be used when peats are being evaluated for use as a fuel.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. Use Practice D 6026 for determining significant digits to report.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

2. Referenced Documents

D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction
D4753 Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Balances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and Construction Materials Testing
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical Data
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
E145 Specification for Gravity-Convection and Forced-Ventilation Ovens

Index Terms

ash content; moisture content; organic soil; peat; percent organic matter; ICS Number Code 65.080; 65.080; 65.080

Citing ASTM Standards

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