This test method separates peat material into arbitrary fractions based on particle size. Physical separation of peat material according to particle size provides a useful indicator of the properties of a peat specimen such as pore space, decomposition, etc. It provides a means of determining the amount of foreign matter not in a divided state such as sticks, stones, and glass.

The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D 3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/ and the like. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D 3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D 3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.