5.1 This test method describes a physical property of solid waste in processing facilities, a property that characterizes the solid waste streams and hence the operation of resource recovery separators and processors.

5.2 The bulk density is an important property for the design of materials handling equipment, separators, and processors.

5.3 In this test method, bulk density is not considered an absolute material property as is the density of individual particles of a material. The measured bulk density here depends on the size of the container, the moisture content of the “as tested” material, and how the material is loaded into the container. For example, the bulk density of material placed loosely in a container will be less than that of material tamped into a container. Also, some materials placed loosely in a container will settle with time due to its own weight; thus, its bulk density will increase. As written, the “as tested” waste sample may or may not be dried prior to testing, so that calculated bulk density includes the moisture associated with the “as tested” material.