ASTM F3013-13R18 - Standard Test Method for Density of Topsoil and Blended Soils In-place by the Core Displacement Method

1.1 This test method may be used to determine the undisturbed (in-situ) in-place bulk-density, moisture content and unit weight of topsoil and blended soil growing mediums using the Core Displacement Method.

1.2 This test method is applicable for soils without appreciable amounts of rock or coarse material exceeding 1 inch in size. Further it is only suitable for soils in-which the natural void or pore openings in the soil are small enough to prevent the sand used in the test from entering the voids and impacting the test results. Unlike Test Method D1556, this test method is suitable for organic and plastic soils due to the use of a core apparatus, and not hand excavation methods. The material shall have adequate cohesive material or particle attraction to provide a stable core (core hole) for the duration of the test without deforming or sloughing. Therefore this method is not suitable for unbound granular soils that cannot maintain stable sides. This test method is applicable for assessing compaction of surface layers of topsoil (or blended soils) using a soil small core unlike Test Methods D4914, which uses a large volume soil pit excavation.

1.3 This test method is intended for soil typical of growing mediums suitable for sports fields, golf courses and lawn areas that may include organic material, silts, clays and sand.

1.4 This test method is not applicable for soil conditions in-which the root mass is excessive or in-which the root mass includes woody roots.

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.

1.6 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.