scope:

These methods of tests are for the rapid determination of the maximum density and optimum moisture content of a soil sample utilizing a family of curves and a one-point determination.

One-point determinations are made by compacting the soil in a mold of a given size with a 2.5-kg (5.5-lb) rammer dropped from a height of 305 mm (12 in.). Four alternate procedures are provided as follows:

• Method A-A 101.6-mm (4-in.) mold; soil material passing a 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve. Sections 5 and 6.

• Method B-A 152.4-mm (6-in.) mold; soil material passing a 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve. Sections 7 and 8.

• Method C-A 101.6-mm (4-in.) mold; soil material passing a 19.0-mm (³/₄ in.) sieve. Sections 9 and 10.

• Method D-A 152.4-mm (6-in.) mold; soil material passing a 19.0-mm (³/₄ in.) sieve. Sections 11 and 12.

The methods described herein correspond to the methods in T 99 and must be chosen accordingly; that is, when moisture-density relationships as determined by Method C of T 99 are used to form the family of curves, then Method C described in this procedure must be used for the one-point determination (Note 1).

Note 1-Direct reference to T 99 is made throughout these test methods, and most terminology, apparatus, and procedures are the same.

In addition, the concepts described herein are applicable to one-point determinations and moisture-density relationships as specified in T 180, with appropriate apparatus and method used as required.

The following applies to all specified limits in this standard: For the purposes of determining conformance with these specifications, an observed value or a calculated value shall be rounded off "to the nearest unit" in the last right-hand place of figures used in expressing the limiting value, in accordance with the rounding-off method of ASTM E 29.

The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.