1. Scope
1. Scope 1.1 This test method covers the procedures for determining in-place properties of non-frozen, unbound soil and soil aggregate mixtures such as total density, gravimetric water content and relative compaction by measuring the electromagnetic impedance of the compacted soil. 1.1.1 For limitations see Section 5 on Interferences. 1.2 The total or wet density and water content of soil and soil-aggregate are correlated to empirical data using an electromagnetic impedance spectroscopy device. Electromagnetic properties of the soil are determined at specific frequencies by measuring the change detected in an electrical signal as it is transmitted through the material being tested. A function is generated that describes the relationship between electrical properties over a range of frequencies. That function is compared to an empirical model to determine water content and density. 1.3 Units - The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units [given in brackets] are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard. 1.3.1 The gravitational system of inch-pound units is used when dealing with inch-pound units. In this system, the pound (lbf) represents a unit of force (weight) while the unit for mass is slugs. The rationalized slug unit is not given in this standard. 1.3.2 In the engineering profession, it is customary practice to use, interchangeably, units representing both mass and force, unless dynamic calculations are involved. This implicitly combines two separate systems of units, that is, the absolute system and the gravimetric system. It is undesirable to combine the use of two separate systems within a single standard. The use of balances or scales recording pounds of mass (lbm), or the recording of density in lbm/ft3 should not be regarded as nonconformance with this standard 1.4 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the Guide for Significant Digits and Rounding established in Practice D6026.
The proposed test method addresses electrical, non-nuclear devices to determine in-place density and moisture content. It will be used by contractors and government agencies for quality control and quality assurance.
Keywords
compaction test; acceptance testing; construction control; quality control; soil density; field density; in-place density; wet density; dry density; impedance spectroscopy; electromagnetic density gauge; non-nuclear test method; nondestructive testing
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Citing ASTM Standards
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