D18.07 - Identification and Classification of Soils

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The purpose of this classification is to standardize the naming of peat materials so that the peat-producer can better identify the product and the peat-consumer can better select peat materials to meet requirements. This system may also be used for peat resource evaluations, environmental impact reports, and preliminary engineering studies. The parameters selected for use in this classification are ones which have been determined to relate to the agricultural/horticultural, geotechnical, and energy uses of peats.
Note 1: 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 D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This classification is a system for subdividing and assigning nomenclature to peat samples through laboratory tests.  
1.2 Peat is considered to be a naturally occurring organic soil primarily derived from decomposing plant material that has sedentarily accumulated in water-saturated, anaerobic environments. It is found in peatlands, bogs, mangroves, mires, moors, and muskegs and is generally composed of mosses, grasses, leaves, sedges, and shrubs. Changes in depositional environment can create subsurface peat deposits underlying inorganic soils. Typically, peat has a low density, high water content, and is quite compressible when compared to other types of soil  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Many geotechnical tests require the utilization of intact, representative samples of soil. The quality of these samples depends on many factors. Many of the samples obtained by intact sampling methods have inherent anomalies. Sampling procedures cause disturbances of varying types and intensities. These anomalies and disturbances, however, are not always readily detectable by visual inspection of the intact samples before or after testing. Often test results would be enhanced if the presence and the extent of these anomalies and disturbances are known before testing or before destruction of the sample by testing. Such determinations assist the user in detecting flaws in sampling methods, the presence of natural or induced shear planes, and the presence of natural intrusions, such as gravels or shells at critical regions in the samples, the presence of sand and silt seams, and the intensity of disturbances caused by sampling.  
5.2 X-ray radiography provides the user with a picture of the internal massive structure of the soil sample, regardless of whether the soil is X-rayed within or without the sampling tube. X-ray radiography assists the user in identifying the following:  
5.2.1 Appropriateness of sampling methods used.  
5.2.2 Effects of sampling in terms of the disturbances caused by the turning of the edges of various thin layers in varved soils, large disturbances caused in soft soils, shear planes induced by sampling, or extrusion, or both, effects of overdriving of samplers, the presence of cuttings in sampling tubes, or the effects of using bent, corroded, or nonstandard tubes for sampling.  
5.2.3 Naturally occurring fissures, shear planes, etc.  
5.2.4 The presence of intrusions within the sample, such as calcareous nodules, gravel, or shells.  
5.2.5 Sand and silt seams, organic matter, large voids, and channels developed by natural or artificial leaching of soil components.
Note 1: The quality of the results produced by this standard is de...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the determination of the quality of soil samples in thin wall tubes or of extruded soil cores by X-ray radiography.  
1.2 This practice enables the user to determine the effects of sampling and natural variations within samples as identified by the extent of the relative penetration of X-rays through soil samples.  
1.3 This practice can be used to X-ray soil cores (or observe their features on a fluoroscope) in thin wall tubes or liners ranging from approximately 50 to 150 mm [2 to 6 in.] in diameter. X-rays of samples in the larger diameter tubes provide a radiograph of major features of soils and disturbances, such as large scale bending of edges of varved clays, shear planes, the presence of large concretions, silt and sand seams thicker than 6 mm [1/4 in.], large lumps of organic matter, and voids or other types of intrusions. X-rays of the smaller diameter cores provide higher resolution of soil features and disturbances, such as small concretions (3 mm [1/8 in.] diameter or larger), solution channels, slight bending of edges of varved clays, thin silt or sand seams, narrow solution channels, plant root structures, and organic matter. The X-raying of samples in thin wall tubes or liners requires minimal preparation.  
1.4 Greater detail and resolution of various features of the soil can be obtained by X-raying extruded soil cores, as compared to samples in metal tubes. The method used for X-raying soil cores is the same as that for tubes and liners, except that extruded cores have to be handled with extreme care and have to be placed in sample troughs (similar to Fig. 2) before X-raying. This practice should be used only when natural water content or other intact soil characteristics are irrelevant to the end use of the sample.  
1.4.1 Often it is necessary to obtain greater resolution of features to determine the propriety of sampling methods, the representative nature of soil samples,...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This standard classifies soils from any geographic location into categories representing the results of prescribed laboratory tests to determine the particle-size characteristics, the liquid limit, and the plasticity index.  
5.2 The assigning of a group name and symbol(s) along with the descriptive information required in Practice D2488 can be used to describe a soil to aid in the evaluation of its significant properties for engineering use.  
5.3 The various groupings of this classification system have been devised to correlate in a general way with the engineering behavior of soils. This standard provides a useful first step in any field or laboratory investigation for geotechnical engineering purposes.  
5.4 This standard may also be used as an aid in training personnel in the use of Practice D2488.  
5.5 This standard may be used in combination with Practice D4083 when working with frozen soils.  
Note 5: Notwithstanding the statements on precision and bias contained in this standard: The precision of this test method 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 D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing. Users of this test method are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable testing. Reliable testing depends on several factors; Practice D3740 provides a means for evaluating some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes a system for classifying mineral and organo-mineral soils for engineering purposes based on laboratory determination of particle-size characteristics, liquid limit, and plasticity index and shall be used when precise classification is required.  
Note 1: Use of this standard will result in a single classification group symbol and group name except when a soil contains 5 to 12 % fines or when the plot of the liquid limit and plasticity index values falls into the crosshatched area of the plasticity chart. In these two cases, a dual symbol is used, for example, GP-GM, CL-ML. When the laboratory test results indicate that the soil is close to another soil classification group, the borderline condition can be indicated with two symbols separated by a slash. The first symbol should be the one based on this standard, for example, CL/CH, GM/SM, SC/CL. Borderline symbols are particularly useful when the liquid limit value of clayey soils is close to 50. These soils can have expansive characteristics and the use of a borderline symbol (CL/CH, CH/CL) will alert the user of the assigned classifications of expansive potential.  
1.2 The group symbol portion of this system is based on laboratory tests performed on the portion of a soil sample passing the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve (see Specification E11).  
1.3 As a classification system, this standard is limited to naturally occurring soils.  
Note 2: The group names and symbols used in this test method may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. See Appendix X2.  
1.4 This standard is for qualitative application only.  
Note 3: When quantitative information is required for detailed designs of important structures, this test method must be supplemented by laboratory tests or other quantitative data to determine performance characteristics under expected field conditions.  
1.5 This standard is the ASTM version of the Unified Soil Classification System. The basis for the classification scheme is the Airfield Classification System developed by A. Casagrande in the early 1940s.2 It became known as the Unified Soil Classification System when several U.S. Government Agencies adopted a modified version of the Airfield System in 1952.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The descriptive information required in this practice can be used to describe a soil to aid in the evaluation of its significant properties for engineering use.  
5.2 The descriptive information required in this practice should be used to supplement the classification of a soil as determined by Test Method D2487.  
5.3 This practice may be used in identifying soils using the classification group symbols and names as prescribed in Test Method D2487. Since the names and symbols used in this practice to identify the soils are the same as those used in Test Method D2487, it shall be clearly stated in reports and all other appropriate documents, that the classification symbol and name are based on visual-manual procedures.  
5.4 This practice is to be used for identification of soils in the field, laboratory, or any other location where soil samples are inspected and described.  
5.5 This practice may be used to group similar soil samples to reduce the number of laboratory tests necessary for positive soil classification.
Note 2: The ability to describe and identify soils correctly is learned more readily under the guidance of experienced personnel, but it may also be acquired systematically by comparing numerical laboratory test results for typical soils of each type with their visual and manual characteristics.  
5.6 Soil samples from a given boring, test pit or location which appear to have similar characteristics are not required to follow all of the procedures in this practice, providing at least one sample is completely described and identified. These samples may follow only the necessary procedures to determine they are “similar” and shall be labeled as such.  
5.7 This practice may be used in combination with Practice D4083 when working with frozen soils.
Note 3: 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 mee...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers procedures for the description of soils for engineering purposes.  
1.2 This practice also describes a procedure for identifying soils, at the option of the user, based on the classification system described in Test Method D2487. The identification is based on visual examination and manual tests. It shall be clearly stated in reporting, the soil identification is based on visual-manual procedures.  
1.2.1 When precise classification of soils for engineering purposes is required, the procedures outlined in Test Method D2487 shall be used.  
1.2.2 In this practice, the identification procedures assigning a group symbol and name are limited to soil particles smaller than 3 in. (75 mm).  
1.2.3 The identification portion of this practice is limited to naturally occurring soils. Specimens used for identification may be either intact or disturbed.  
Note 1: This practice may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. (see Appendix X2).  
1.3 The descriptive information in this practice may be used with other soil classification systems or for materials other than naturally occurring soils.  
1.4 Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are rationalized conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. The sieve designations are identified using the “alternative” system in accordance with Practice E11.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precautionary statements see Section 8.  
1.6 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The practice described classifies soils from any geographic location into groups (including group indexes) based on the results of prescribed laboratory tests to determine the particle-size characteristics, liquid limit, and plasticity index.  
4.2 The assigning of a group symbol and group index can be used to aid in the evaluation of the significant properties of the soil for highway and airfield purposes.  
4.3 The various groupings of this classification system correlate in a general way with the engineering behavior of soils. Also, in a general way, the engineering behavior of a soil varies inversely with its group index. Therefore, this practice provides a useful first step in any field or laboratory investigation for geotechnical engineering purposes.
Note 3: The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent upon the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluation some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers a procedure for classifying mineral and organomineral soils into seven groups based on laboratory determination of particle-size distribution, liquid limit, and plasticity index. It may be used when a precise engineering classification is required, especially for highway construction purposes. Evaluation of soils within each group is made by means of a group index, which is a value calculated from an empirical formula.  
Note 1: The group classification, including the group index, should be useful in determining the relative quality of the soil material for use in earthwork structures, particularly embankments, subgrades, subbases, and bases. However, for the detailed design of important structures, additional data concerning strength or performance characteristics of the soil under field conditions will usually be required.  
1.2 Units—The sieve designations are identified using the “standard” system in accordance with Specification E11, such as 75-mm and 75-μm, followed by the “alternative” system of 3-in. and No. 200, respectively.  
1.3  This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This practice cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This practice is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this practice be applied without consideration of a project's many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The purpose of this classification is to standardize the naming of peat materials so that the peat-producer can better identify the product and the peat-consumer can better select peat materials to meet requirements. This system may also be used for peat resource evaluations, environmental impact reports, and preliminary engineering studies. The parameters selected for use in this classification are ones which have been determined to relate to the agricultural/horticultural, geotechnical, and energy uses of peats.
Note 1: 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 D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This classification is a system for subdividing and assigning nomenclature to peat samples through laboratory tests.  
1.2 Peat is considered to be a naturally occurring organic soil primarily derived from decomposing plant material that has sedentarily accumulated in water-saturated, anaerobic environments. It is found in peatlands, bogs, mangroves, mires, moors, and muskegs and is generally composed of mosses, grasses, leaves, sedges, and shrubs. Changes in depositional environment can create subsurface peat deposits underlying inorganic soils. Typically, peat has a low density, high water content, and is quite compressible when compared to other types of soil  
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This standard classifies soils from any geographic location into categories representing the results of prescribed laboratory tests to determine the particle-size characteristics, the liquid limit, and the plasticity index.  
5.2 The assigning of a group name and symbol(s) along with the descriptive information required in Practice D2488 can be used to describe a soil to aid in the evaluation of its significant properties for engineering use.  
5.3 The various groupings of this classification system have been devised to correlate in a general way with the engineering behavior of soils. This standard provides a useful first step in any field or laboratory investigation for geotechnical engineering purposes.  
5.4 This standard may also be used as an aid in training personnel in the use of Practice D2488.  
5.5 This standard may be used in combination with Practice D4083 when working with frozen soils.  
Note 5: Notwithstanding the statements on precision and bias contained in this standard: The precision of this test method 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 D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing. Users of this test method are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable testing. Reliable testing depends on several factors; Practice D3740 provides a means for evaluating some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes a system for classifying mineral and organo-mineral soils for engineering purposes based on laboratory determination of particle-size characteristics, liquid limit, and plasticity index and shall be used when precise classification is required.  
Note 1: Use of this standard will result in a single classification group symbol and group name except when a soil contains 5 to 12 % fines or when the plot of the liquid limit and plasticity index values falls into the crosshatched area of the plasticity chart. In these two cases, a dual symbol is used, for example, GP-GM, CL-ML. When the laboratory test results indicate that the soil is close to another soil classification group, the borderline condition can be indicated with two symbols separated by a slash. The first symbol should be the one based on this standard, for example, CL/CH, GM/SM, SC/CL. Borderline symbols are particularly useful when the liquid limit value of clayey soils is close to 50. These soils can have expansive characteristics and the use of a borderline symbol (CL/CH, CH/CL) will alert the user of the assigned classifications of expansive potential.  
1.2 The group symbol portion of this system is based on laboratory tests performed on the portion of a soil sample passing the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve (see Specification E11).  
1.3 As a classification system, this standard is limited to naturally occurring soils.  
Note 2: The group names and symbols used in this test method may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. See Appendix X2.  
1.4 This standard is for qualitative application only.  
Note 3: When quantitative information is required for detailed designs of important structures, this test method must be supplemented by laboratory tests or other quantitative data to determine performance characteristics under expected field conditions.  
1.5 This standard is the ASTM version of the Unified Soil Classification System. The basis for the classification scheme is the Airfield Classification System developed by A. Casagrande in the early 1940s.2 It became known as the Unified Soil Classification System when several U.S. Government Agencies adopted a modified version of the Airfield System in 1952.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The descriptive information required in this practice can be used to describe a soil to aid in the evaluation of its significant properties for engineering use.  
5.2 The descriptive information required in this practice should be used to supplement the classification of a soil as determined by Test Method D2487.  
5.3 This practice may be used in identifying soils using the classification group symbols and names as prescribed in Test Method D2487. Since the names and symbols used in this practice to identify the soils are the same as those used in Test Method D2487, it shall be clearly stated in reports and all other appropriate documents, that the classification symbol and name are based on visual-manual procedures.  
5.4 This practice is to be used for identification of soils in the field, laboratory, or any other location where soil samples are inspected and described.  
5.5 This practice may be used to group similar soil samples to reduce the number of laboratory tests necessary for positive soil classification.
Note 2: The ability to describe and identify soils correctly is learned more readily under the guidance of experienced personnel, but it may also be acquired systematically by comparing numerical laboratory test results for typical soils of each type with their visual and manual characteristics.  
5.6 Soil samples from a given boring, test pit or location which appear to have similar characteristics are not required to follow all of the procedures in this practice, providing at least one sample is completely described and identified. These samples may follow only the necessary procedures to determine they are “similar” and shall be labeled as such.  
5.7 This practice may be used in combination with Practice D4083 when working with frozen soils.
Note 3: 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 mee...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers procedures for the description of soils for engineering purposes.  
1.2 This practice also describes a procedure for identifying soils, at the option of the user, based on the classification system described in Test Method D2487. The identification is based on visual examination and manual tests. It shall be clearly stated in reporting, the soil identification is based on visual-manual procedures.  
1.2.1 When precise classification of soils for engineering purposes is required, the procedures outlined in Test Method D2487 shall be used.  
1.2.2 In this practice, the identification procedures assigning a group symbol and name are limited to soil particles smaller than 3 in. (75 mm).  
1.2.3 The identification portion of this practice is limited to naturally occurring soils. Specimens used for identification may be either intact or disturbed.  
Note 1: This practice may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. (see Appendix X2).  
1.3 The descriptive information in this practice may be used with other soil classification systems or for materials other than naturally occurring soils.  
1.4 Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are rationalized conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. The sieve designations are identified using the “alternative” system in accordance with Practice E11.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precautionary statements see Section 8.  
1.6 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or ...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The purpose of this classification is to standardize the naming of peat materials so that the peat-producer can better identify the product and the peat-consumer can better select peat materials to meet requirements. This system may also be used for peat resource evaluations, environmental impact reports, and preliminary engineering studies. The parameters selected for use in this classification are ones which have been determined to relate to the agricultural/horticultural, geotechnical, and energy uses of peats.
Note 1: 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 D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This classification is a system for subdividing and assigning nomenclature to peat samples through laboratory tests.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.3 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Many geotechnical tests require the utilization of intact, representative samples of soil deposits. The quality of these samples depends on many factors. Many of the samples obtained by intact sampling methods have inherent anomalies. Sampling procedures cause disturbances of varying types and intensities. These anomalies and disturbances, however, are not always readily detectable by visual inspection of the intact samples before or after testing. Often test results would be enhanced if the presence and the extent of these anomalies and disturbances are known before testing or before destruction of the sample by testing. Such determinations assist the user in detecting flaws in sampling methods, the presence of natural or induced shear planes, and the presence of natural intrusions, such as gravels or shells at critical regions in the samples, the presence of sand and silt seams, and the intensity of some of the unavoidable disturbances caused by sampling.  
4.2 X-ray radiography provides the user with a picture of the internal massive structure of the soil sample, regardless of whether the soil is X-rayed within or without the sampling tube. X-ray radiography assists the user in identifying the following:  
4.2.1 Appropriateness of sampling methods used,  
4.2.2 Effects of sampling in terms of the disturbances caused by the turning of the edges of various thin layers in varved soils, large disturbances caused in soft soils, shear planes induced by sampling, or extrusion, or both, effects of overdriving of samplers, the presence of cuttings in sampling tubes, or the effects of using bent, corroded, or nonstandard tubes for sampling,  
4.2.3 Naturally occurring fissures, shear planes, and the like,  
4.2.4 The presence of intrusions within the sample, such as calcareous nodules, gravel, or shells, and  
4.2.5 Sand and silt seams, organic matter, large voids, and channels developed by natural or artificial leaching of soils components.  
Note 1: The qualit...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the determination of the quality of soil samples in thin wall tubes or of extruded cores by X-ray radiography.  
1.2 This practice enables the user to determine the effects of sampling and natural variations within samples as identified by the extent of the relative penetration of X-rays through soil samples.  
1.3 This practice can be used to X-ray cores (or observe their features on a fluoroscope) in thin wall tubes or liners ranging from approximately 50 to 150 mm (2 to 6 in.) in diameter. X-rays of samples in the larger diameter tubes provide a radiograph of major features of soils and disturbances, such as large scale bending of edges of varved clays, shear planes, the presence of large concretions, silt and sand seams thicker than 6 mm (1/4 in.), large lumps of organic matter, and voids or other types of intrusions. X-rays of the smaller diameter cores provide higher resolution of soil features and disturbances, such as small concretions (3 mm (1/8 in.) diameter or larger), solution channels, slight bending of edges of varved clays, thin silt or sand seams, narrow solution channels, plant root structures, and organic matter. The X-raying of samples in thin wall tubes or liners requires minimal preparation.  
1.4 Greater detail and resolution of various features of the soil can be obtained by X-raying of extruded cores, as compared to samples in metal tubes. The method used for X-raying cores is the same as that for tubes and liners, except that extruded cores have to be handled with extreme care and have to be placed in sample holders (similar to Fig. 2) before X-raying. This practice should be used only when natural water content or other intact soil characteristics are irrelevant to the end use of the sample.  
1.4.1 Often it is necessary to obtain greater resolution of features to determine the propriety of sampling methods, the representative nature of soil samples, or anomalies in ...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The purpose of this classification is to standardize the naming of peat materials so that the peat-producer can better identify the product and the peat-consumer can better select peat materials to meet requirements. This system may also be used for peat resource evaluations, environmental impact reports, and preliminary engineering studies. The parameters selected for use in this classification are ones which have been determined to relate to the agricultural/horticultural, geotechnical, and energy uses of peats.Note 1—The quality of the results 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 D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/and the like. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable testing. Reliable testing depends on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This classification is a system for subdividing and assigning nomenclature to peat samples through laboratory tests.  
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
This standard classifies soils from any geographic location into categories representing the results of prescribed laboratory tests to determine the particle-size characteristics, the liquid limit, and the plasticity index.  
The assigning of a group name and symbol(s) along with the descriptive information required in Practice D2488 can be used to describe a soil to aid in the evaluation of its significant properties for engineering use.  
The various groupings of this classification system have been devised to correlate in a general way with the engineering behavior of soils. This standard provides a useful first step in any field or laboratory investigation for geotechnical engineering purposes.  
This standard may also be used as an aid in training personnel in the use of Practice D2488.  
This standard may be used in combination with Practice D4083 when working with frozen soils.  
Note 5—Notwithstanding the statements on precision and bias contained in this standard: The precision of this test method 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 D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing. Users of this test method are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable testing. Reliable testing depends on several factors; Practice D3740 provides a means for evaluating some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes a system for classifying mineral and organo-mineral soils for engineering purposes based on laboratory determination of particle-size characteristics, liquid limit, and plasticity index and shall be used when precise classification is required.  
Note 1—Use of this standard will result in a single classification group symbol and group name except when a soil contains 5 to 12 % fines or when the plot of the liquid limit and plasticity index values falls into the crosshatched area of the plasticity chart. In these two cases, a dual symbol is used, for example, GP-GM, CL-ML. When the laboratory test results indicate that the soil is close to another soil classification group, the borderline condition can be indicated with two symbols separated by a slash. The first symbol should be the one based on this standard, for example, CL/CH, GM/SM, SC/CL. Borderline symbols are particularly useful when the liquid limit value of clayey soils is close to 50. These soils can have expansive characteristics and the use of a borderline symbol (CL/CH, CH/CL) will alert the user of the assigned classifications of expansive potential.  
1.2 The group symbol portion of this system is based on laboratory tests performed on the portion of a soil sample passing the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve (see Specification E11).  
1.3 As a classification system, this standard is limited to naturally occurring soils.  
Note 2—The group names and symbols used in this test method may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. See Appendix X2.  
1.4 This standard is for qualitative application only.  
Note 3—When quantitative information is required for detailed designs of important structures, this test method must be supplemented by laboratory tests or other quantitative data to determine performance characteristics under expected field conditions.  
1.5 This standard is the ASTM version of the Unified Soil Classification System. The basis for the classification scheme is the Airfield Classification System developed by A. Casagrande in the early 1940s. It became known as the Unified Soil Classification System when several U.S. Government Agencies adopted a modified version of the Airfield System in 1952.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this sta...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
This standard classifies soils from any geographic location into categories representing the results of prescribed laboratory tests to determine the particle-size characteristics, the liquid limit, and the plasticity index.  
The assigning of a group name and symbol(s) along with the descriptive information required in Practice D2488 can be used to describe a soil to aid in the evaluation of its significant properties for engineering use.  
The various groupings of this classification system have been devised to correlate in a general way with the engineering behavior of soils. This standard provides a useful first step in any field or laboratory investigation for geotechnical engineering purposes.  
This standard may also be used as an aid in training personnel in the use of Practice D2488.  
This standard may be used in combination with Practice D4083 when working with frozen soils.  
Note 5—Notwithstanding the statements on precision and bias contained in this standard: The precision of this test method 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 D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing. Users of this test method are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable testing. Reliable testing depends on several factors; Practice D3740 provides a means for evaluating some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes a system for classifying mineral and organo-mineral soils for engineering purposes based on laboratory determination of particle-size characteristics, liquid limit, and plasticity index and shall be used when precise classification is required.  
Note 1—Use of this standard will result in a single classification group symbol and group name except when a soil contains 5 to 12 % fines or when the plot of the liquid limit and plasticity index values falls into the crosshatched area of the plasticity chart. In these two cases, a dual symbol is used, for example, GP-GM, CL-ML. When the laboratory test results indicate that the soil is close to another soil classification group, the borderline condition can be indicated with two symbols separated by a slash. The first symbol should be the one based on this standard, for example, CL/CH, GM/SM, SC/CL. Borderline symbols are particularly useful when the liquid limit value of clayey soils is close to 50. These soils can have expansive characteristics and the use of a borderline symbol (CL/CH, CH/CL) will alert the user of the assigned classifications of expansive potential.  
1.2 The group symbol portion of this system is based on laboratory tests performed on the portion of a soil sample passing the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve (see Specification E11).  
1.3 As a classification system, this standard is limited to naturally occurring soils.  
Note 2—The group names and symbols used in this test method may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. See Appendix X2.  
1.4 This standard is for qualitative application only.  
Note 3—When quantitative information is required for detailed designs of important structures, this test method must be supplemented by laboratory tests or other quantitative data to determine performance characteristics under expected field conditions.  
1.5 This standard is the ASTM version of the Unified Soil Classification System. The basis for the classification scheme is the Airfield Classification System developed by A. Casagrande in the early 1940s. It became known as the Unified Soil Classification System when several U.S. Government Agencies adopted a modified version of the Airfield System in 1952.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this sta...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The practice described classifies soils from any geographic location into groups (including group indexes) based on the results of prescribed laboratory tests to determine the particle-size characteristics, liquid limit, and plasticity index.
The assigning of a group symbol and group index can be used to aid in the evaluation of the significant properties of the soil for highway and airfield purposes.
The various groupings of this classification system correlate in a general way with the engineering behavior of soils. Also, in a general way, the engineering behavior of a soil varies inversely with its group index. Therefore, this practice provides a useful first step in any field or laboratory investigation for geotechnical engineering purposes.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers a procedure for classifying mineral and organomineral soils into seven groups based on laboratory determination of particle-size distribution, liquid limit, and plasticity index. It may be used when a precise engineering classification is required, especially for highway construction purposes. Evaluation of soils within each group is made by means of a group index, which is a value calculated from an empirical formula.
Note 1—The group classification, including the group index, should be useful in determining the relative quality of the soil material for use in earthwork structures, particularly embankments, subgrades, subbases, and bases. However, for the detailed design of important structures, additional data concerning strength or performance characteristics of the soil under field conditions will usually be required.  
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.3  This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This practice cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This practice is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this practice be applied without consideration of a project's many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The descriptive information required in this practice can be used to describe a soil to aid in the evaluation of its significant properties for engineering use.
The descriptive information required in this practice should be used to supplement the classification of a soil as determined by Test Method D 2487.
This practice may be used in identifying soils using the classification group symbols and names as prescribed in Test Method D 2487. Since the names and symbols used in this practice to identify the soils are the same as those used in Test Method D 2487, it shall be clearly stated in reports and all other appropriate documents, that the classification symbol and name are based on visual-manual procedures.
This practice is to be used not only for identification of soils in the field, but also in the office, laboratory, or wherever soil samples are inspected and described.
This practice has particular value in grouping similar soil samples so that only a minimum number of laboratory tests need be run for positive soil classification.
Note 4—The ability to describe and identify soils correctly is learned more readily under the guidance of experienced personnel, but it may also be acquired systematically by comparing numerical laboratory test results for typical soils of each type with their visual and manual characteristics.
When describing and identifying soil samples from a given boring, test pit, or group of borings or pits, it is not necessary to follow all of the procedures in this practice for every sample. Soils which appear to be similar can be grouped together; one sample completely described and identified with the others referred to as similar based on performing only a few of the descriptive and identification procedures described in this practice.
This practice may be used in combination with Practice D 4083 when working with frozen soils.
Note 5—Notwithstanding the statements on precision and bias contained in this standard: The prec...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers procedures for the description of soils for engineering purposes.  
1.2 This practice also describes a procedure for identifying soils, at the option of the user, based on the classification system described in Test Method D 2487. The identification is based on visual examination and manual tests. It must be clearly stated in reporting an identification that it is based on visual-manual procedures.  
1.2.1 When precise classification of soils for engineering purposes is required, the procedures prescribed in Test Method D 2487 shall be used.
1.2.2 In this practice, the identification portion assigning a group symbol and name is limited to soil particles smaller than 3 in. (75 mm).
1.2.3 The identification portion of this practice is limited to naturally occurring soils (either intact or disturbed).
Note 1—This practice may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. (see Appendix X2).  
1.3 The descriptive information in this practice may be used with other soil classification systems or for materials other than naturally occurring soils.
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precautionary statements see Section 8.  
1.6 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this pra...

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers procedures for the description of soils for engineering purposes.  
1.2 This practice also describes a procedure for identifying soils, at the option of the user, based on the classification system described in Test Method D 2487. The identification is based on visual examination and manual tests. It must be clearly stated in reporting an identification that it is based on visual-manual procedures.  
1.2.1 When precise classification of soils for engineering purposes is required, the procedures prescribed in Test Method D 2487 shall be used.
1.2.2 In this practice, the identification portion assigning a group symbol and name is limited to soil particles smaller than 3 in. (75 mm).
1.2.3 The identification portion of this practice is limited to naturally occurring soils (disturbed and undisturbed).
Note 1—This practice may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. (see Appendix X2).  
1.3 The descriptive information in this practice may be used with other soil classification systems or for materials other than naturally occurring soils.
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precautionary statements see Section 8.  
1.6 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project's many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
The purpose of this classification is to standardize the naming of peat materials so that the peat-producer can better identify the product and the peat-consumer better select peat materials to meet requirements. This system may also be used for peat resource evaluations, environmental impact reports, and preliminary engineering studies. The parameters selected for use in this classification are ones which have been determined to relate to the agricultural/horticultural, geotechnical, and energy uses of peats.
Note 1—The quality of the results 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 testing. Reliable testing depends on many factors; Practice D 3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This classification is a system for subdividing and assigning nomenclature to peat samples through laboratory tests.
This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SCOPE
1.1 This classification is a system for subdividing and assigning nomenclature to peat samples through laboratory tests.
This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers procedures for the description of soils for engineering purposes.
1.2 This practice also describes a procedure for identifying soils, at the option of the user, based on the classification system described in Test Method D 2487. The identification is based on visual examination and manual tests. It must be clearly stated in reporting an identification that it is based on visual-manual procedures.
1.2.1 When precise classification of soils for engineering purposes is required, the procedures prescribed in Test Method D 2487 shall be used.
1.2.2 In this practice, the identification portion assigning a group symbol and name is limited to soil particles smaller than 3 in. (75 mm).
1.2.3 The identification portion of this practice is limited to naturally occurring soils (disturbed and undisturbed). Note 1This practice may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. (see ).
1.3 The descriptive information in this practice may be used with other soil classification systems or for materials other than naturally occurring soils.
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precautionary statements see Section 8.
1.6 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project's many unique aspects. The word "Standard" in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers the determination of the quality of soil samples in thin wall tubes or of extruded cores by X-ray radiography.
1.2 This practice enables the user to determine the effects of sampling and natural variations within samples as identified by the extent of the relative penetration of X-rays through soil samples.
1.3 This practice can be used to X-ray cores (or observe their features on a fluoroscope) in thin wall tubes or liners ranging from approximately 2 to 6 in. (51 to 152 mm) in diameter. X-rays of samples in the larger diameter tubes provide a radiograph of major features of soils and disturbances, such as large scale bending of edges of varved clays, shear planes, the presence of large concretions, silt and sand seams thicker than 1/4 in. (6.4 mm), large lumps of organic matter, and voids or other types of intrusions. X-rays of the smaller diameter cores provide higher resolution of soil features and disturbances, such as small concretions (1/8 in. (3.2 mm) diameter or larger), solution channels, slight bending of edges of varved clays, thin silt or sand seams, narrow solution channels, plant root structures, and organic matter. The X-raying of samples in thin wall tubes or liners requires minimal preparation
1.4 Greater detail and resolution of various features of the soil can be obtained by X-raying of extruded cores, as compared to samples in metal tubes. The method used for X-raying cores is the same as that for tubes and liners, except that extruded cores have to be handled with extreme care and have to be placed in sample holders (similar to Fig. 2) before X-raying. This practice should be used only when natural moisture or other undisturbed soil characteristics are irrelevant to the end use of the sample.
1.4.1 Often it is necessary to obtain greater resolution of features to determine the propriety of sampling methods, the representative nature of soil samples, or anomalies in soils. This practice requires that either duplicate samples be obtained or already tested specimens be X-rayed.
1.5 This practice can only be used to their fullest extent after considerable experience is obtained through many detailed comparisons between the X-ray film and the sample X-rayed.
1.6 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The SI values given in parentheses are provided for information purposes only.
1.7 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a projects many unique aspects. The word "Standard" in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.
This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precaution statements, see Section 6.

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
This standard classifies soils from any geographic location into categories representing the results of prescribed laboratory tests to determine the particle-size characteristics, the liquid limit, and the plasticity index.  
The assigning of a group name and symbol(s) along with the descriptive information required in Practice D 2488 can be used to describe a soil to aid in the evaluation of its significant properties for engineering use.  
The various groupings of this classification system have been devised to correlate in a general way with the engineering behavior of soils. This standard provides a useful first step in any field or laboratory investigation for geotechnical engineering purposes.  
This standard may also be used as an aid in training personnel in the use of Practice D 2488.  
This standard may be used in combination with Practice D 4083 when working with frozen soils.  
Note 5—Notwithstanding the statements on precision and bias contained in this standard: The precision of this test method 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. Users of this test method are cautioned that compliance with Practice D 3740 does not in itself assure reliable testing. Reliable testing depends on several factors; Practice D 3740 provides a means for evaluating some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes a system for classifying mineral and organo-mineral soils for engineering purposes based on laboratory determination of particle-size characteristics, liquid limit, and plasticity index and shall be used when precise classification is required. Note 1
Use of this standard will result in a single classification group symbol and group name except when a soil contains 5 to 12 % fines or when the plot of the liquid limit and plasticity index values falls into the crosshatched area of the plasticity chart. In these two cases, a dual symbol is used, for example, GP-GM, CL-ML. When the laboratory test results indicate that the soil is close to another soil classification group, the borderline condition can be indicated with two symbols separated by a slash. The first symbol should be the one based on this standard, for example, CL/CH, GM/SM, SC/CL. Borderline symbols are particularly useful when the liquid limit value of clayey soils is close to 50. These soils can have expansive characteristics and the use of a borderline symbol (CL/CH, CH/CL) will alert the user of the assigned classifications of expansive potential.
1.2 The group symbol portion of this system is based on laboratory tests performed on the portion of a soil sample passing the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve (see Specification E 11).
1.3 As a classification system, this standard is limited to naturally occurring soils. Note 2
The group names and symbols used in this test method may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. See .
1.4 This standard is for qualitative application only.Note 3
When quantitative information is required for detailed designs of important structures, this test method must be supplemented by laboratory tests or other quantitative data to determine performance characteristics under expected field conditions.
1.5 This standard is the ASTM version of the Unified Soil Classification System. The basis for the classification scheme is the Airfield Classification System developed by A. Casagrande in the early 1940's. It became known as the Unified Soil Classification System when several U.S. Government Agencies adopted a modified version of the Airfield System in 1952.
This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appr...

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
This standard classifies soils from any geographic location into categories representing the results of prescribed laboratory tests to determine the particle-size characteristics, the liquid limit, and the plasticity index.  
The assigning of a group name and symbol(s) along with the descriptive information required in Practice D 2488 can be used to describe a soil to aid in the evaluation of its significant properties for engineering use.  
The various groupings of this classification system have been devised to correlate in a general way with the engineering behavior of soils. This standard provides a useful first step in any field or laboratory investigation for geotechnical engineering purposes.  
This standard may also be used as an aid in training personnel in the use of Practice D 2488.  
This standard may be used in combination with Practice D 4083 when working with frozen soils.  
Note 5—Notwithstanding the statements on precision and bias contained in this standard: The precision of this test method 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. Users of this test method are cautioned that compliance with Practice D 3740 does not in itself assure reliable testing. Reliable testing depends on several factors; Practice D 3740 provides a means for evaluating some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes a system for classifying mineral and organo-mineral soils for engineering purposes based on laboratory determination of particle-size characteristics, liquid limit, and plasticity index and shall be used when precise classification is required.  
Note 1—Use of this standard will result in a single classification group symbol and group name except when a soil contains 5 to 12 % fines or when the plot of the liquid limit and plasticity index values falls into the crosshatched area of the plasticity chart. In these two cases, a dual symbol is used, for example, GP-GM, CL-ML. When the laboratory test results indicate that the soil is close to another soil classification group, the borderline condition can be indicated with two symbols separated by a slash. The first symbol should be the one based on this standard, for example, CL/CH, GM/SM, SC/CL. Borderline symbols are particularly useful when the liquid limit value of clayey soils is close to 50. These soils can have expansive characteristics and the use of a borderline symbol (CL/CH, CH/CL) will alert the user of the assigned classifications of expansive potential.  
1.2 The group symbol portion of this system is based on laboratory tests performed on the portion of a soil sample passing the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve (see Specification E 11).  
1.3 As a classification system, this standard is limited to naturally occurring soils.  
Note 2—The group names and symbols used in this test method may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. See Appendix X2.  
1.4 This standard is for qualitative application only.  
Note 3—When quantitative information is required for detailed designs of important structures, this test method must be supplemented by laboratory tests or other quantitative data to determine performance characteristics under expected field conditions.  
1.5 This standard is the ASTM version of the Unified Soil Classification System. The basis for the classification scheme is the Airfield Classification System developed by A. Casagrande in the early 1940's. It became known as the Unified Soil Classification System when several U.S. Government Agencies adopted a modified version of the Airfield System in 1952.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of ...

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers a procedure for classifying mineral and organomineral soils into seven groups based on laboratory determination of particle-size distribution, liquid limit, and plasticity index. It may be used when a precise engineering classification is required, especially for highway construction purposes. Evaluation of soils within each group is made by means of a group index, which is a value calculated from an empirical formula.
Note 1—The group classification, including the group index, should be useful in determining the relative quality of the soil material for use in earthwork structures, particularly embankments, subgrades, subbases, and bases. However, for the detailed design of important structures, additional data concerning strength or performance characteristics of the soil under field conditions will usually be required.
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.3 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This practice cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This practice is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this practice be applied without consideration of a project's many unique aspects. The word "Standard" in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.

SCOPE
1.1 This standard describes a system for classifying mineral and organo-mineral soils for engineering purposes based on laboratory determination of particle-size characteristics, liquid limit, and plasticity index and shall be used when precise classification is required.  Note 1-Use of this standard will result in a single classification group symbol and group name except when a soil contains 5 to 12% fines or when the plot of the liquid limit and plasticity index values falls into the crosshatched area of the plasticity chart. In these two cases, a dual symbol is used, for example, GP-GM, CL-ML. When the laboratory test results indicate that the soil is close to another soil classification group, the borderline condition can be indicated with two symbols separated by a slash. The first symbol should be the one based on this standard, for example, CL/CH, GM/SM, SC/CL. Borderline symbols are particularly useful when the liquid limit value of clayey soils is close to 50. These soils can have expansive characteristics and the use of a borderline symbol (CL/CH, CH/CL) will alert the user of the assigned classifications of expansive potential.
1.2 The group symbol portion of this sytem is based on laboratory tests performed on the portion of a soil sample passing the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve (see Specification E11).  
1.3 As a classification system, this standard is limited to naturally occurring soils.  Note 2-The group names and symbols used in this test method may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. See Appendix X2.
1.4 This standard is for qualitative application only.  Note 3-When quantitative information is required for detailed designs of important structures, this test method must be supplemented by laboratory tests or other quantitative data to determine performance characteristics under expected field conditions.
1.5 This standard is the ASTM version of the Unified Soil Classification System. The basis for the classification scheme is the Airfield Classification System developed by A. Casagrande in the early 1940's.  It became known as the Unified Soil Classification System when several U.S. Government Agencies adopted a modified version of the Airfield System in 1952.  
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers procedures for the description of soils for engineering purposes.
1.2 This practice also describes a procedure for identifying soils, at the option of the user, based on the classification system described in Test Method D 2487. The identification is based on visual examination and manual tests. It must be clearly stated in reporting an identification that it is based on visual-manual procedures.
1.2.1 When precise classification of soils for engineering purposes is required, the procedures prescribed in Test Method D 2487 shall be used.
1.2.2 In this practice, the identification portion assigning a group symbol and name is limited to soil particles smaller than 3 in. (75 mm).
1.2.3 The identification portion of this practice is limited to naturally occurring soils (disturbed and undisturbed).
Note 1—This practice may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. (see Appendix X2).
1.3 The descriptive information in this practice may be used with other soil classification systems or for materials other than naturally occurring soils.
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precautionary statements see Section 8.
1.6 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project's many unique aspects. The word "Standard" in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.

SCOPE
1.1 This standard describes a procedure for classifying mineral and organomineral soils into seven groups based on laboratory determination of particle-size distribution, liquid limit, and plasticity index. It may be used when a precise engineering classification is required, especially for highway construction purposes. Evaluation of soils within each group is made by means of a group index , which is a value calculated from an empirical formula.  Note 1-The group classification, including the group index, should be useful in determining the relative quality of the soil material for use in earthwork structures, particularly embankments, subgrades, subbases, and bases. However, for the detailed design of important structures, additional data concerning strength or performance characteristics of the soil under field conditions will usually be required.
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SCOPE
1.1 These methods cover the determination of the quality of soil samples by X-ray radiography.  
1.2 These methods enable the user to determine the effects of sampling and natural variations within samples as identified by the extent of the relative penetration of X rays through soil samples.  
1.3 These methods can only be used to their fullest extent after considerable experience is obtained through many detailed comparisons between the X-ray film and the sample X-rayed.  
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard.  
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precaution statements, see Section 6.

SCOPE
1.1 This classification is a system for subdividing and assigning nomenclature to peat samples through laboratory tests.
1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the quality of soil samples by X-ray radiography.
1.2 These test methods enable the user to determine the effects of sampling and natural variations within samples as identified by the extent of the relative penetration of X rays through soil samples.
1.3 These test methods can only be used to their fullest extent after considerable experience is obtained through many detailed comparisons between the X-ray film and the sample X-rayed.
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard.
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific precaution statements, see Section 6.