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New Test Method for Determining the Volumetric Moisture Content of Equine Surfaces
1. Scope
Moisture Content critically affects the shear strength of the surface and is primarily used for compaction of equine surface materials and or establishing a hardpan or base layer composed of footing material used to support the horse during propulsion. This should not be confused with an asphalt or limestone based often found at the bottom of these footing materials as they are outside the scope of this test and local highway construction standards should be considered for these cases. This test is applicable to sand, sand-fiber, turf, and synthetic equine surfaces.
Harrowing, floating, or sealing the surface near the optimal volumetric moisture content as determined by bulk density testing helps prepare a hardpan layer or prepare the surface to facilitate horizontal drainage and prevent excess water from saturating the surface while reducing material loss from runoff. Equine surface maintenance personnel predominately use TDR or other similar measurements to determine the current operating volumetric moisture content and check for spatial and temporal consistency of the surface. This method will allow for direct comparison and validation of laboratory and in-situ data collected on the surface.
