scope:

This standard practice covers the use of the plastic mold compaction device (PM device) to prepare cylindrical test specimens with an approximate 2:1 height to diameter aspect ratio for use in a variety of mechanical property testing (e.g., compressive strength, elastic modulus, tensile strength). This practice is intended for chemically stabilized materials (e.g., soil-cement, cement treated aggregate base, soil-lime). The PM device has been manufactured in two sizes [76.2 by 152.4-mm (3 by 6-in.) and 101.6 by 203.2-mm (4 by 8-in.)], and the appropriate PM device size is determined by the particle size distribution of the material being tested.

Method A utilizes the 76.2 by 152.4-mm (3 by 6-in.) PM device (also referred to as 3x6) and is intended for material passing a 9.5-mm (³/₈-in.) sieve.

Method B utilizes the 101.6 by 203.2-mm (4 by 8-in.) PM device (also referred to as 4x8) and is intended for material passing a 19.0-mm (³/₄-in.) sieve.

This standard practice may be used to fabricate test specimens in the laboratory or in the field.

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