Designation: D2488 − 09a

Standard Practice for

Description and Identification of Soils (Visual-Manual
Procedure)1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2488; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.

1. Scope* 1.6 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing

1.1 This practice covers procedures for the description of one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace
soils for engineering purposes. education or experience and should be used in conjunction
with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may
1.2 This practice also describes a procedure for identifying be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not
soils, at the option of the user, based on the classification intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which
system described in Test Method D2487. The identification is the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged,
based on visual examination and manual tests. It must be nor should this document be applied without consideration of
clearly stated in reporting an identification that it is based on a project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the
visual-manual procedures. title of this document means only that the document has been
1.2.1 When precise classification of soils for engineering approved through the ASTM consensus process.
purposes is required, the procedures prescribed in Test Method
D2487 shall be used. 2. Referenced Documents
1.2.2 In this practice, the identification portion assigning a
2.1 ASTM Standards:2
group symbol and name is limited to soil particles smaller than
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
3 in. (75 mm).
Fluids
1.2.3 The identification portion of this practice is limited to
D1452 Practice for Soil Exploration and Sampling by Auger
naturally occurring soils (either intact or disturbed).
Borings
NOTE 1—This practice may be used as a descriptive system applied to D1586 Test Method for Penetration Test (SPT) and Split-
such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. (see Appendix Barrel Sampling of Soils
X2).
D1587 Practice for Thin-Walled Tube Sampling of Soils for
1.3 The descriptive information in this practice may be used Geotechnical Purposes
with other soil classification systems or for materials other than D2113 Practice for Rock Core Drilling and Sampling of
naturally occurring soils. Rock for Site Investigation
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded D2487 Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System)
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies
and are not considered standard. Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as
Used in Engineering Design and Construction
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
D4083 Practice for Description of Frozen Soils (Visual-
safety problems, if any, associated with its use. It is the
Manual Procedure)
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- 3. Terminology
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific
precautionary statements see Section 8. 3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 Except as listed below, all definitions are in accor-
dance with Terminology D653.
1
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.07 on Identification and
2
Classification of Soils. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved June 15, 2009. Published July 2009. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1966. Last previous edition approved in 2009 as D2488 – 09. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/D2488-09A. the ASTM website.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

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NOTE 2—For particles retained on a 3-in. (75-mm) US standard sieve, the soil has properties which do not distinctly place it into a
the following definitions are suggested: specific group, borderline symbols may be used, see Appendix
Cobbles—particles of rock that will pass a 12-in. (300-mm) square
opening and be retained on a 3-in. (75-mm) sieve, and
X3.
Boulders—particles of rock that will not pass a 12-in. (300-mm) square NOTE 3—It is suggested that a distinction be made between dual
opening. symbols and borderline symbols.
3.1.2 clay—soil passing a No. 200 (75-µm) sieve that can be Dual Symbol—A dual symbol is two symbols separated by a hyphen,
for example, GP-GM, SW-SC, CL-ML used to indicate that the soil has
made to exhibit plasticity (putty-like properties) within a range
been identified as having the properties of a classification in accordance
of water contents, and that exhibits considerable strength when with Test Method D2487 where two symbols are required. Two symbols
air-dry. For classification, a clay is a fine-grained soil, or the are required when the soil has between 5 and 12 % fines or when the liquid
fine-grained portion of a soil, with a plasticity index equal to or limit and plasticity index values plot in the CL-ML area of the plasticity
greater than 4, and the plot of plasticity index versus liquid chart.
Borderline Symbol—A borderline symbol is two symbols separated by a
limit falls on or above the “A” line (see Fig. 3 of Test Method slash, for example, CL/CH, GM/SM, CL/ML. A borderline symbol should
D2487). be used to indicate that the soil has been identified as having properties
3.1.3 gravel—particles of rock that will pass a 3-in. (75- that do not distinctly place the soil into a specific group (see Appendix
mm) sieve and be retained on a No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve with the X3).
following subdivisions:
coarse—passes a 3-in. (75-mm) sieve and is retained on a 5. Significance and Use
3⁄4-in. (19-mm) sieve.
5.1 The descriptive information required in this practice can
fine—passes a 3⁄4-in. (19-mm) sieve and is retained on a No. be used to describe a soil to aid in the evaluation of its
4 (4.75-mm) sieve. significant properties for engineering use.
3.1.4 organic clay—a clay with sufficient organic content to
5.2 The descriptive information required in this practice
influence the soil properties. For classification, an organic clay
should be used to supplement the classification of a soil as
is a soil that would be classified as a clay, except that its liquid
determined by Test Method D2487.
limit value after oven drying is less than 75 % of its liquid limit
value before oven drying. 5.3 This practice may be used in identifying soils using the
3.1.5 organic silt—a silt with sufficient organic content to classification group symbols and names as prescribed in Test
influence the soil properties. For classification, an organic silt Method D2487. Since the names and symbols used in this
is a soil that would be classified as a silt except that its liquid practice to identify the soils are the same as those used in Test
limit value after oven drying is less than 75 % of its liquid limit Method D2487, it shall be clearly stated in reports and all other
value before oven drying. appropriate documents, that the classification symbol and name
3.1.6 peat—a soil composed primarily of vegetable tissue in are based on visual-manual procedures.
various stages of decomposition usually with an organic odor, 5.4 This practice is to be used not only for identification of
a dark brown to black color, a spongy consistency, and a soils in the field, but also in the office, laboratory, or wherever
texture ranging from fibrous to amorphous. soil samples are inspected and described.
3.1.7 sand—particles of rock that will pass a No. 4 (4.75-
mm) sieve and be retained on a No. 200 (75-µm) sieve with the 5.5 This practice has particular value in grouping similar
following subdivisions: soil samples so that only a minimum number of laboratory tests
coarse—passes a No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve and is retained on need be run for positive soil classification.
a No. 10 (2.00-mm) sieve. NOTE 4—The ability to describe and identify soils correctly is learned
medium—passes a No. 10 (2.00-mm) sieve and is retained more readily under the guidance of experienced personnel, but it may also
on a No. 40 (425-µm) sieve. be acquired systematically by comparing numerical laboratory test results
for typical soils of each type with their visual and manual characteristics.
fine—passes a No. 40 (425-µm) sieve and is retained on a
No. 200 (75-µm) sieve. 5.6 When describing and identifying soil samples from a
3.1.8 silt—soil passing a No. 200 (75-µm) sieve that is given boring, test pit, or group of borings or pits, it is not
nonplastic or very slightly plastic and that exhibits little or no necessary to follow all of the procedures in this practice for
strength when air dry. For classification, a silt is a fine-grained every sample. Soils which appear to be similar can be grouped
soil, or the fine-grained portion of a soil, with a plasticity index together; one sample completely described and identified with
less than 4, or the plot of plasticity index versus liquid limit the others referred to as similar based on performing only a few
falls below the “A” line (see Fig. 3 of Test Method D2487). of the descriptive and identification procedures described in
this practice.
4. Summary of Practice 5.7 This practice may be used in combination with Practice
4.1 Using visual examination and simple manual tests, this D4083 when working with frozen soils.
practice gives standardized criteria and procedures for describ- NOTE 5—Notwithstanding the statements on precision and bias con-
ing and identifying soils. tained in this standard: The precision of this test method is dependent on
4.2 The soil can be given an identification by assigning a the competence of the personnel performing it and the suitability of the
equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice
group symbol(s) and name. The flow charts, Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective
for fine-grained soils, and Fig. 2, for coarse-grained soils, can testing. Users of this test method are cautioned that compliance with
be used to assign the appropriate group symbol(s) and name. If Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable testing. Reliable testing
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NOTE 1—Percentages are based on estimating amounts of fines, sand, and gravel to the nearest 5 %.
FIG. 1a Flow Chart for Identifying Inorganic Fine-Grained Soil (50 % or more fines)

NOTE 1—Percentages are based on estimating amounts of fines, sand, and gravel to the nearest 5 %.

FIG. 1 b Flow Chart for Identifying Organic Fine-Grained Soil (50 % or more fines)

depends on several factors; Practice D3740 provides a means for 7. Reagents

evaluating some of those factors.
7.1 Purity of Water—Unless otherwise indicated, references
6. Apparatus to water shall be understood to mean water from a city water
6.1 Required Apparatus: supply or natural source, including non-potable water.
6.1.1 Pocket Knife or Small Spatula.
7.2 Hydrochloric Acid—A small bottle of dilute hydrochlo-
6.2 Useful Auxiliary Apparatus: ric acid, HCl, one part HCl (10 N) to three parts water (This
6.2.1 Test Tube and Stopper (or jar with a lid). reagent is optional for use with this practice). See Section 8.
6.2.2 Hand Lens.
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NOTE 1—Percentages are based on estimating amounts of fines, sand, and gravel to the nearest 5 %.
FIG. 2 Flow Chart for Identifying Coarse-Grained Soils (less than 50 % fines)

8. Safety Precautions Maximum Particle Size, Minimum Specimen Size,

Sieve Opening Dry Weight
8.1 When preparing the dilute HCl solution of one part
concentrated hydrochloric acid (10 N) to three parts of distilled 4.75 mm (No. 4) 100 g (0.25 lb)
water, slowly add acid into water following necessary safety 9.5 mm (3⁄8 in.) 200 g (0.5 lb)
19.0 mm (3⁄4 in.) 1.0 kg (2.2 lb)
precautions. Handle with caution and store safely. If solution 38.1 mm (11⁄2 in.) 8.0 kg (18 lb)
comes into contact with the skin, rinse thoroughly with water. 75.0 mm (3 in.) 60.0 kg (132 lb)

8.2 Caution—Do not add water to acid. NOTE 8—If random isolated particles are encountered that are signifi-
cantly larger than the particles in the soil matrix, the soil matrix can be
accurately described and identified in accordance with the preceeding
9. Sampling schedule.
9.1 The sample shall be considered to be representative of 9.4 If the field sample or specimen being examined is
the stratum from which it was obtained by an appropriate, smaller than the minimum recommended amount, the report
accepted, or standard procedure. shall include an appropriate remark.
NOTE 6—Preferably, the sampling procedure should be identified as 10. Descriptive Information for Soils
having been conducted in accordance with Practices D1452, D1587, or
D2113, or Test Method D1586. 10.1 Angularity—Describe the angularity of the sand
9.2 The sample shall be carefully identified as to origin. (coarse sizes only), gravel, cobbles, and boulders, as angular,
subangular, subrounded, or rounded in accordance with the
NOTE 7—Remarks as to the origin may take the form of a boring criteria in Table 1 and Fig. 3. A range of angularity may be
number and sample number in conjunction with a job number, a geologic
stratum, a pedologic horizon or a location description with respect to a
stated, such as: subrounded to rounded.
permanent monument, a grid system or a station number and offset with 10.2 Shape—Describe the shape of the gravel, cobbles, and
respect to a stated centerline and a depth or elevation. boulders as flat, elongated, or flat and elongated if they meet
9.3 For accurate description and identification, the mini- the criteria in Table 2 and Fig. 4. Otherwise, do not mention the
mum amount of the specimen to be examined shall be in shape. Indicate the fraction of the particles that have the shape,
accordance with the following schedule: such as: one-third of the gravel particles are flat.

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TABLE 1 Criteria for Describing Angularity of Coarse-Grained mum particle size, 11⁄2 in. (will pass a 11⁄2-in. square opening
Particles (see Fig. 3) but not a 3⁄4-in. square opening).
Description Criteria 10.11.3 Cobble or Boulder Size—If the maximum particle
Angular Particles have sharp edges and relatively plane sides with size is a cobble or boulder size, describe the maximum
unpolished surfaces
Subangular Particles are similar to angular description but have
dimension of the largest particle. For example: maximum
rounded edges dimension, 18 in. (450 mm).
Subrounded Particles have nearly plane sides but have well-rounded
corners and edges 10.12 Hardness—Describe the hardness of coarse sand and
Rounded Particles have smoothly curved sides and no edges larger particles as hard, or state what happens when the
particles are hit by a hammer, for example, gravel-size particles
fracture with considerable hammer blow, some gravel-size
particles crumble with hammer blow. “Hard” means particles
do not crack, fracture, or crumble under a hammer blow.
10.3 Color—Describe the color. Color is an important
property in identifying organic soils, and within a given 10.13 Additional comments shall be noted, such as the
locality it may also be useful in identifying materials of similar presence of roots or root holes, difficulty in drilling or augering
geologic origin. If the sample contains layers or patches of hole, caving of trench or hole, or the presence of mica.
varying colors, this shall be noted and all representative colors 10.14 A local or commercial name or a geologic interpre-
shall be described. The color shall be described for moist tation of the soil, or both, may be added if identified as such.

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samples. If the color represents a dry condition, this shall be 10.15 A classification or identification of the soil in accor-
stated in the report. dance with other classification systems may be added if
10.4 Odor—Describe the odor if organic or unusual. Soils identified as such.
containing a significant amount of organic material usually
have a distinctive odor of decaying vegetation. This is espe- 11. Identification of Peat
cially apparent in fresh samples, but if the samples are dried, 11.1 A sample composed primarily of vegetable tissue in
the odor may often be revived by heating a moistened sample. various stages of decomposition that has a fibrous to amor-
If the odor is unusual (petroleum product, chemical, and the phous texture, usually a dark brown to black color, and an
like), it shall be described. organic odor, shall be designated as a highly organic soil and
10.5 Moisture Condition—Describe the moisture condition shall be identified as peat, PT, and not subjected to the
as dry, moist, or wet, in accordance with the criteria in Table 3. identification procedures described hereafter.
10.6 HCl Reaction—Describe the reaction with HCl as
none, weak, or strong, in accordance with the critera in Table 12. Preparation for Identification
4. Since calcium carbonate is a common cementing agent, a 12.1 The soil identification portion of this practice is based
report of its presence on the basis of the reaction with dilute on the portion of the soil sample that will pass a 3-in. (75-mm)
hydrochloric acid is important. sieve. The larger than 3-in. (75-mm) particles must be
10.7 Consistency—For intact fine-grained soil, describe the removed, manually, for a loose sample, or mentally, for an
consistency as very soft, soft, firm, hard, or very hard, in intact sample before classifying the soil.
accordance with the criteria in Table 5. This observation is 12.2 Estimate and note the percentage of cobbles and the
inappropriate for soils with significant amounts of gravel. percentage of boulders. Performed visually, these estimates
10.8 Cementation—Describe the cementation of intact will be on the basis of volume percentage.
coarse-grained soils as weak, moderate, or strong, in accor- NOTE 9—Since the percentages of the particle-size distribution in Test
dance with the criteria in Table 6. Method D2487 are by dry weight, and the estimates of percentages for
gravel, sand, and fines in this practice are by dry weight, it is recom-
10.9 Structure—Describe the structure of intact soils in mended that the report state that the percentages of cobbles and boulders
accordance with the criteria in Table 7. are by volume.
10.10 Range of Particle Sizes—For gravel and sand 12.3 Of the fraction of the soil smaller than 3 in. (75 mm),
components, describe the range of particle sizes within each estimate and note the percentage, by dry weight, of the gravel,
component as defined in 3.1.2 and 3.1.6. For example, about sand, and fines (see Appendix X4 for suggested procedures).
20 % fine to coarse gravel, about 40 % fine to coarse sand.
NOTE 10—Since the particle-size components appear visually on the
10.11 Maximum Particle Size—Describe the maximum par- basis of volume, considerable experience is required to estimate the
ticle size found in the sample in accordance with the following percentages on the basis of dry weight. Frequent comparisons with
information: laboratory particle-size analyses should be made.
10.11.1 Sand Size—If the maximum particle size is a sand 12.3.1 The percentages shall be estimated to the closest 5 %.
size, describe as fine, medium, or coarse as defined in 3.1.6. The percentages of gravel, sand, and fines must add up to
For example: maximum particle size, medium sand. 100 %.
10.11.2 Gravel Size—If the maximum particle size is a 12.3.2 If one of the components is present but not in
gravel size, describe the maximum particle size as the smallest sufficient quantity to be considered 5 % of the smaller than
sieve opening that the particle will pass. For example, maxi- 3-in. (75-mm) portion, indicate its presence by the term trace,

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FIG. 3 Typical Angularity of Bulky Grains

TABLE 2 Criteria for Describing Particle Shape (see Fig. 4)

The particle shape shall be described as follows where length, width, and
thickness refer to the greatest, intermediate, and least dimensions of a particle,
respectively.

Flat Particles with width/thickness > 3

Elongated Particles with length/width > 3
Flat and elongated Particles meet criteria for both flat and elongated

for example, trace of fines. A trace is not to be considered in the

total of 100 % for the components.

13. Preliminary Identification

13.1 The soil is fine grained if it contains 50 % or more
fines. Follow the procedures for identifying fine-grained soils
of Section 14.
13.2 The soil is coarse grained if it contains less than 50 %
fines. Follow the procedures for identifying coarse-grained
soils of Section 15.

14. Procedure for Identifying Fine-Grained Soils

14.1 Select a representative sample of the material for
examination. Remove particles larger than the No. 40 sieve
(medium sand and larger) until a specimen equivalent to about
a handful of material is available. Use this specimen for
performing the dry strength, dilatancy, and toughness tests.
14.2 Dry Strength:
14.2.1 From the specimen, select enough material to mold
into a ball about 1 in. (25 mm) in diameter. Mold the material
until it has the consistency of putty, adding water if necessary. FIG. 4 Criteria for Particle Shape
14.2.2 From the molded material, make at least three test
specimens. A test specimen shall be a ball of material about 1⁄2
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TABLE 3 Criteria for Describing Moisture Condition TABLE 8 Criteria for Describing Dry Strength
Description Criteria Description Criteria
Dry Absence of moisture, dusty, dry to the touch None The dry specimen crumbles into powder with mere pressure
Moist Damp but no visible water of handling
Wet Visible free water, usually soil is below water table Low The dry specimen crumbles into powder with some finger
pressure
Medium The dry specimen breaks into pieces or crumbles with
considerable finger pressure
TABLE 4 Criteria for Describing the Reaction With HCl High The dry specimen cannot be broken with finger pressure.
Description Criteria Specimen will break into pieces between thumb and a hard
surface
None No visible reaction Very high The dry specimen cannot be broken between the thumb and a
Weak Some reaction, with bubbles forming slowly hard surface
Strong Violent reaction, with bubbles forming immediately

TABLE 5 Criteria for Describing Consistency

Description Criteria tionally high dry strengths. The presence of calcium carbonate
Very soft Thumb will penetrate soil more than 1 in. (25 mm) can usually be detected from the intensity of the reaction with
Soft Thumb will penetrate soil about 1 in. (25 mm)
Firm Thumb will indent soil about 1⁄4 in. (6 mm)
dilute hydrochloric acid (see 10.6).
Hard Thumb will not indent soil but readily indented with thumbnail 14.3 Dilatancy:
Very hard Thumbnail will not indent soil
14.3.1 From the specimen, select enough material to mold
into a ball about 1⁄2 in. (12 mm) in diameter. Mold the material,
TABLE 6 Criteria for Describing Cementation adding water if necessary, until it has a soft, but not sticky,
consistency.
Description Criteria
14.3.2 Smooth the soil ball in the palm of one hand with the
Weak Crumbles or breaks with handling or little finger pressure
Moderate Crumbles or breaks with considerable finger pressure blade of a knife or small spatula. Shake horizontally, striking
Strong Will not crumble or break with finger pressure the side of the hand vigorously against the other hand several
times. Note the reaction of water appearing on the surface of
the soil. Squeeze the sample by closing the hand or pinching
TABLE 7 Criteria for Describing Structure the soil between the fingers, and note the reaction as none,
Description Criteria slow, or rapid in accordance with the criteria in Table 9. The
Stratified Alternating layers of varying material or color with layers at reaction is the speed with which water appears while shaking,
least 6 mm thick; note thickness
Laminated Alternating layers of varying material or color with the
and disappears while squeezing.
layers less than 6 mm thick; note thickness 14.4 Toughness:
Fissured Breaks along definite planes of fracture with little
resistance to fracturing 14.4.1 Following the completion of the dilatancy test, the
Slickensided Fracture planes appear polished or glossy, sometimes test specimen is shaped into an elongated pat and rolled by
striated hand on a smooth surface or between the palms into a thread
Blocky Cohesive soil that can be broken down into small angular
lumps which resist further breakdown about 1⁄8 in. (3 mm) in diameter. (If the sample is too wet to roll
Lensed Inclusion of small pockets of different soils, such as small easily, it should be spread into a thin layer and allowed to lose
lenses of sand scattered through a mass of clay; note
thickness
some water by evaporation.) Fold the sample threads and reroll
Homogeneous Same color and appearance throughout repeatedly until the thread crumbles at a diameter of about 1⁄8
in. The thread will crumble at a diameter of 1⁄8 in. when the soil
is near the plastic limit. Note the pressure required to roll the
thread near the plastic limit. Also, note the strength of the
in. (12 mm) in diameter. Allow the test specimens to dry in air, thread. After the thread crumbles, the pieces should be lumped
or sun, or by artificial means, as long as the temperature does together and kneaded until the lump crumbles. Note the
not exceed 60°C. toughness of the material during kneading.
14.2.3 If the test specimen contains natural dry lumps, those 14.4.2 Describe the toughness of the thread and lump as
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that are about 1⁄2 in. (12 mm) in diameter may be used in place low, medium, or high in accordance with the criteria in Table
of the molded balls. 10.
NOTE 11—The process of molding and drying usually produces higher
strengths than are found in natural dry lumps of soil.
14.2.4 Test the strength of the dry balls or lumps by TABLE 9 Criteria for Describing Dilatancy
crushing between the fingers. Note the strength as none, low,
Description Criteria
medium, high, or very high in accorance with the criteria in
None No visible change in the specimen
Table 8. If natural dry lumps are used, do not use the results of Slow Water appears slowly on the surface of the specimen during
any of the lumps that are found to contain particles of coarse shaking and does not disappear or disappears slowly upon
sand. squeezing
Rapid Water appears quickly on the surface of the specimen during
14.2.5 The presence of high-strength water-soluble cement- shaking and disappears quickly upon squeezing
ing materials, such as calcium carbonate, may cause excep-

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TABLE 10 Criteria for Describing Toughness TABLE 12 Identification of Inorganic Fine-Grained Soils from
Description Criteria Manual Tests
Low Only slight pressure is required to roll the thread near the Soil Toughness
Dry Strength Dilatancy
plastic limit. The thread and the lump are weak and soft Symbol and Plasticity
Medium Medium pressure is required to roll the thread to near the ML None to low Slow to rapid Low or thread
plastic limit. The thread and the lump have medium stiffness cannot be formed
High Considerable pressure is required to roll the thread to near the CL Medium to high None to slow Medium
plastic limit. The thread and the lump have very high MH Low to medium None to slow Low to medium
stiffness CH High to very high None High

14.5 Plasticity—On the basis of observations made during

clays, OL or OH. Correlations between the dilatancy, dry strength,
the toughness test, describe the plasticity of the material in toughness tests, and laboratory tests can be made to identify organic soils
accordance with the criteria given in Table 11. in certain deposits of similar materials of known geologic origin.
14.6 Decide whether the soil is an inorganic or an organic 14.9 If the soil is estimated to have 15 to 25 % sand or
fine-grained soil (see 14.8). If inorganic, follow the steps given gravel, or both, the words “with sand” or “with gravel”
in 14.7. (whichever is more predominant) shall be added to the group
14.7 Identification of Inorganic Fine-Grained Soils: name. For example: “lean clay with sand, CL” or “silt with
14.7.1 Identify the soil as a lean clay, CL, if the soil has gravel, ML” (see Fig. 1a and Fig. 1b). If the percentage of sand
medium to high dry strength, no or slow dilatancy, and medium is equal to the percentage of gravel, use “with sand.”
toughness and plasticity (see Table 12). 14.10 If the soil is estimated to have 30 % or more sand or
14.7.2 Identify the soil as a fat clay, CH, if the soil has high gravel, or both, the words “sandy” or “gravelly” shall be added
to very high dry strength, no dilatancy, and high toughness and to the group name. Add the word “sandy” if there appears to be
plasticity (see Table 12). more sand than gravel. Add the word “gravelly” if there
14.7.3 Identify the soil as a silt, ML, if the soil has no to low appears to be more gravel than sand. For example: “sandy lean
dry strength, slow to rapid dilatancy, and low toughness and clay, CL”, “gravelly fat clay, CH”, or “sandy silt, ML” (see Fig.
plasticity, or is nonplastic (see Table 12). 1a and Fig. 1b). If the percentage of sand is equal to the percent
14.7.4 Identify the soil as an elastic silt, MH, if the soil has of gravel, use “sandy.”
low to medium dry strength, no to slow dilatancy, and low to
medium toughness and plasticity (see Table 12). 15. Procedure for Identifying Coarse-Grained Soils
(Contains less than 50 % fines)
NOTE 12—These properties are similar to those for a lean clay.
However, the silt will dry quickly on the hand and have a smooth, silky 15.1 The soil is a gravel if the percentage of gravel is
feel when dry. Some soils that would classify as MH in accordance with estimated to be more than the percentage of sand.
the criteria in Test Method D2487 are visually difficult to distinguish from
lean clays, CL. It may be necessary to perform laboratory testing for 15.2 The soil is a sand if the percentage of gravel is
proper identification. estimated to be equal to or less than the percentage of sand.
14.8 Identification of Organic Fine-Grained Soils: 15.3 The soil is a clean gravel or clean sand if the
14.8.1 Identify the soil as an organic soil, OL/OH, if the soil percentage of fines is estimated to be 5 % or less.
contains enough organic particles to influence the soil proper- 15.3.1 Identify the soil as a well-graded gravel, GW, or as a
ties. Organic soils usually have a dark brown to black color and well-graded sand, SW, if it has a wide range of particle sizes
may have an organic odor. Often, organic soils will change and substantial amounts of the intermediate particle sizes.
color, for example, black to brown, when exposed to the air. 15.3.2 Identify the soil as a poorly graded gravel, GP, or as
Some organic soils will lighten in color significantly when air a poorly graded sand, SP, if it consists predominantly of one
dried. Organic soils normally will not have a high toughness or size (uniformly graded), or it has a wide range of sizes with
plasticity. The thread for the toughness test will be spongy. some intermediate sizes obviously missing (gap or skip
NOTE 13—In some cases, through practice and experience, it may be graded).
possible to further identify the organic soils as organic silts or organic 15.4 The soil is either a gravel with fines or a sand with fines
if the percentage of fines is estimated to be 15 % or more.
TABLE 11 Criteria for Describing Plasticity 15.4.1 Identify the soil as a clayey gravel, GC, or a clayey
Description Criteria sand, SC, if the fines are clayey as determined by the
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Nonplastic A 1⁄8-in. (3-mm) thread cannot be rolled at any water content procedures in Section 14.
Low The thread can barely be rolled and the lump cannot be 15.4.2 Identify the soil as a silty gravel, GM, or a silty sand,
formed when drier than the plastic limit
Medium The thread is easy to roll and not much time is required to
SM, if the fines are silty as determined by the procedures in
reach the plastic limit. The thread cannot be rerolled after Section 14.
reaching the plastic limit. The lump crumbles when drier
than the plastic limit 15.5 If the soil is estimated to contain 10 % fines, give the
High It takes considerable time rolling and kneading to reach the soil a dual identification using two group symbols.
plastic limit. The thread can be rerolled several times after 15.5.1 The first group symbol shall correspond to a clean
reaching the plastic limit. The lump can be formed without
crumbling when drier than the plastic limit gravel or sand (GW, GP, SW, SP) and the second symbol shall
correspond to a gravel or sand with fines (GC, GM, SC, SM).

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15.5.2 The group name shall correspond to the first group TABLE 13 Checklist for Description of Soils
symbol plus the words “with clay” or “with silt” to indicate the 1. Group name
plasticity characteristics of the fines. For example: “well- 2. Group symbol
3. Percent of cobbles or boulders, or both (by volume)
graded gravel with clay, GW-GC” or “poorly graded sand with 4. Percent of gravel, sand, or fines, or all three (by dry weight)
silt, SP-SM” (see Fig. 2). 5. Particle-size range:
Gravel—fine, coarse
15.6 If the specimen is predominantly sand or gravel but Sand—fine, medium, coarse
contains an estimated 15 % or more of the other coarse-grained 6. Particle angularity: angular, subangular, subrounded, rounded
7. Particle shape: (if appropriate) flat, elongated, flat and elongated
constituent, the words “with gravel” or “with sand” shall be 8. Maximum particle size or dimension
added to the group name. For example: “poorly graded gravel 9. Hardness of coarse sand and larger particles
with sand, GP” or “clayey sand with gravel, SC” (see Fig. 2). 10. Plasticity of fines: nonplastic, low, medium, high
11. Dry strength: none, low, medium, high, very high
15.7 If the field sample contains any cobbles or boulders, or 12. Dilatancy: none, slow, rapid
both, the words “with cobbles” or “with cobbles and boulders” 13. Toughness: low, medium, high
14. Color (in moist condition)
shall be added to the group name. For example: “silty gravel 15. Odor (mention only if organic or unusual)
with cobbles, GM.” 16. Moisture: dry, moist, wet
17. Reaction with HCl: none, weak, strong
For intact samples:
16. Report 18. Consistency (fine-grained soils only): very soft, soft, firm, hard, very hard
16.1 The report shall include the information as to origin, 19. Structure: stratified, laminated, fissured, slickensided, lensed, homo-
geneous
and the items indicated in Table 13. 20. Cementation: weak, moderate, strong
21. Local name
NOTE 14—Example: Clayey Gravel with Sand and Cobbles, GC— 22. Geologic interpretation
About 50 % fine to coarse, subrounded to subangular gravel; about 30 % 23. Additional comments: presence of roots or root holes, presence of mica,
fine to coarse, subrounded sand; about 20 % fines with medium plasticity, gypsum, etc., surface coatings on coarse-grained particles, caving or
high dry strength, no dilatancy, medium toughness; weak reaction with sloughing of auger hole or trench sides, difficulty in augering or excavating,
HCl; original field sample had about 5 % (by volume) subrounded etc.
cobbles, maximum dimension, 150 mm.
In-Place Conditions—Firm, homogeneous, dry, brown
Geologic Interpretation—Alluvial fan Method D2487, it must be distinctly and clearly stated in log
NOTE 15—Other examples of soil descriptions and identification are forms, summary tables, reports, and the like, that the symbol
given in Appendix X1 and Appendix X2.
NOTE 16—If desired, the percentages of gravel, sand, and fines may be
and name are based on visual-manual procedures.
stated in terms indicating a range of percentages, as follows: 17. Precision and Bias
Trace—Particles are present but estimated to be less than 5 %
Few—5 to 10 % 17.1 This practice provides qualitative information only,
Little—15 to 25 % therefore, a precision and bias statement is not applicable.
Some—30 to 45 %
Mostly—50 to 100 % 18. Keywords
16.2 If, in the soil description, the soil is identified using a 18.1 classification; clay; gravel; organic soils; sand; silt; soil
classification group symbol and name as described in Test classification; soil description; visual classification

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. EXAMPLES OF VISUAL SOIL DESCRIPTIONS

X1.1 The following examples show how the information fractured with hammer blow; maximum size, 25 mm; no
required in 16.1 can be reported. The information that is reaction with HCl (Note—Field sample size smaller than
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included in descriptions should be based on individual circum- recommended).

stances and need. In-Place Conditions—Firm, stratified and contains lenses of
X1.1.1 Well-Graded Gravel with Sand (GW)—About 75 % silt 1 to 2 in. (25 to 50 mm) thick, moist, brown to gray;
fine to coarse, hard, subangular gravel; about 25 % fine to in-place density 106 lb/ft3; in-place moisture 9 %.
coarse, hard, subangular sand; trace of fines; maximum size, 75 X1.1.3 Organic Soil (OL/OH)—About 100 % fines with low
mm, brown, dry; no reaction with HCl. plasticity, slow dilatancy, low dry strength, and low toughness;
X1.1.2 Silty Sand with Gravel (SM)—About 60 % predomi- wet, dark brown, organic odor; weak reaction with HCl.
nantly fine sand; about 25 % silty fines with low plasticity, low X1.1.4 Silty Sand with Organic Fines (SM)—About 75 %
dry strength, rapid dilatancy, and low toughness; about 15 % fine to coarse, hard, subangular reddish sand; about 25 %
fine, hard, subrounded gravel, a few gravel-size particles organic and silty dark brown nonplastic fines with no dry

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strength and slow dilatancy; wet; maximum size, coarse sand; rounded to subangular sand; about 10 % silty nonplastic fines;
weak reaction with HCl. moist, brown; no reaction with HCl; original field sample had
X1.1.5 Poorly Graded Gravel with Silt, Sand, Cobbles and about 5 % (by volume) hard, subrounded cobbles and a trace of
Boulders (GP-GM)—About 75 % fine to coarse, hard, sub- hard, subrounded boulders, with a maximum dimension of 18
rounded to subangular gravel; about 15 % fine, hard, sub- in. (450 mm).

X2. USING THE IDENTIFICATION PROCEDURE AS A DESCRIPTIVE SYSTEM FOR SHALE, CLAYSTONE,
SHELLS, SLAG, CRUSHED ROCK, AND THE LIKE

X2.1 The identification procedure may be used as a descrip- X2.4.1 Shale Chunks—Retrieved as 2 to 4-in. (50 to 100-
tive system applied to materials that exist in-situ as shale, mm) pieces of shale from power auger hole, dry, brown, no
claystone, sandstone, siltstone, mudstone, etc., but convert to reaction with HCl. After slaking in water for 24 h, material
soils after field or laboratory processing (crushing, slaking, and identified as “Sandy Lean Clay (CL)”; about 60 % fines with
the like). medium plasticity, high dry strength, no dilatancy, and medium
toughness; about 35 % fine to medium, hard sand; about 5 %
X2.2 Materials such as shells, crushed rock, slag, and the gravel-size pieces of shale.
like, should be identified as such. However, the procedures
used in this practice for describing the particle size and X2.4.2 Crushed Sandstone—Product of commercial crush-
plasticity characteristics may be used in the description of the ing operation; “Poorly Graded Sand with Silt (SP-SM)”; about
material. If desired, an identification using a group name and 90 % fine to medium sand; about 10 % nonplastic fines; dry,
symbol according to this practice may be assigned to aid in reddish-brown.
describing the material. X2.4.3 Broken Shells—About 60 % uniformly graded
gravel-size broken shells; about 30 % sand and sand-size shell
X2.3 The group symbol(s) and group names should be pieces; about 10 % nonplastic fines; “Poorly Graded Gravel
placed in quotation marks or noted with some type of distin- with Silt and Sand (GP-GM).”
guishing symbol. See examples.
X2.4.4 Crushed Rock—Processed from gravel and cobbles
X2.4 Examples of how group names and symbols can be in Pit No. 7; “Poorly Graded Gravel (GP)”; about 90 % fine,
incororated into a descriptive system for materials that are not hard, angular gravel-size particles; about 10 % coarse, hard,
naturally occurring soils are as follows: angular sand-size particles; dry, tan; no reaction with HCl.

X3. SUGGESTED PROCEDURE FOR USING A BORDERLINE SYMBOL FOR SOILS WITH TWO POSSIBLE IDENTIFICA-
TIONS.

X3.1 Since this practice is based on estimates of particle X3.1.5 A borderline symbol may be used when a fine-
size distribution and plasticity characteristics, it may be diffi- grained soil has properties that indicate that it is at the
cult to clearly identify the soil as belonging to one category. To boundary between a soil of low compressibility and a soil of
indicate that the soil may fall into one of two possible basic high compressibility. For example: CL/CH, MH/ML.
groups, a borderline symbol may be used with the two symbols
separated by a slash. For example: SC/CL or CL/CH. X3.2 The order of the borderline symbols should reflect
X3.1.1 A borderline symbol may be used when the percent- similarity to surrounding or adjacent soils. For example: soils
age of fines is estimated to be between 45 and 55 %. One in a borrow area have been identified as CH. One sample is
symbol should be for a coarse-grained soil with fines and the considered to have a borderline symbol of CL and CH. To
other for a fine-grained soil. For example: GM/ML or CL/SC. show similarity, the borderline symbol should be CH/CL.
X3.1.2 A borderline symbol may be used when the percent-
X3.3 The group name for a soil with a borderline symbol
age of sand and the percentage of gravel are estimated to be
should be the group name for the first symbol, except for:
about the same. For example: GP/SP, SC/GC, GM/SM. It is
practically impossible to have a soil that would have a CL/CH lean to fat clay
borderline symbol of GW/SW.
ML/CL clayey silt
X3.1.3 A borderline symbol may be used when the soil CL/ML silty clay
could be either well graded or poorly graded. For example:
GW/GP, SW/SP. X3.4 The use of a borderline symbol should not be used
X3.1.4 A borderline symbol may be used when the soil indiscriminately. Every effort shall be made to first place the
could either be a silt or a clay. For example: CL/ML, CH/MH, soil into a single group.
SC/SM.
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X4. SUGGESTED PROCEDURES FOR ESTIMATING THE PERCENTAGES OF GRAVEL, SAND,

AND FINES IN A SOIL SAMPLE

X4.1 Jar Method—The relative percentage of coarse- and The percentages of sand and fines in the minus sieve size No.
fine-grained material may be estimated by thoroughly shaking 4 material can then be estimated from the wash test (X4.3).
a mixture of soil and water in a test tube or jar, and then
allowing the mixture to settle. The coarse particles will fall to X4.3 Wash Test (for relative percentages of sand and
the bottom and successively finer particles will be deposited fines)—Select and moisten enough minus No. 4 sieve size
with increasing time; the sand sizes will fall out of suspension material to form a 1-in (25-mm) cube of soil. Cut the cube in
in 20 to 30 s. The relative proportions can be estimated from half, set one-half to the side, and place the other half in a small
the relative volume of each size separate. This method should dish. Wash and decant the fines out of the material in the dish
be correlated to particle-size laboratory determinations. until the wash water is clear and then compare the two samples
and estimate the percentage of sand and fines. Remember that
X4.2 Visual Method—Mentally visualize the gravel size the percentage is based on weight, not volume. However, the
volume comparison will provide a reasonable indication of
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particles placed in a sack (or other container) or sacks. Then,

do the same with the sand size particles and the fines. Then, grain size percentages.
mentally compare the number of sacks to estimate the percent- X4.3.1 While washing, it may be necessary to break down
age of plus No. 4 sieve size and minus No. 4 sieve size present. lumps of fines with the finger to get the correct percentages.

X5. ABBREVIATED SOIL CLASSIFICATION SYMBOLS

X5.1 In some cases, because of lack of space, an abbrevi- X5.4 The soil classification symbol is to be enclosed in
ated system may be useful to indicate the soil classification parenthesis. Some examples would be:
symbol and name. Examples of such cases would be graphical Group Symbol and Full Name Abbreviated
logs, databases, tables, etc.
CL, Sandy lean clay s(CL)
X5.2 This abbreviated system is not a substitute for the full SP-SM, Poorly graded sand with silt and gravel (SP-SM)g
GP, poorly graded gravel with sand, cobbles, and (GP)scb
name and descriptive information but can be used in supple- boulders
mentary presentations when the complete description is refer- ML, gravelly silt with sand and cobbles g(ML)sc
enced.
X5.3 The abbreviated system should consist of the soil
classification symbol based on this standard with appropriate
lower case letter prefixes and suffixes as:
Prefix: Suffix:

s = sandy s = with sand

g = gravelly g = with gravel
c = with cobbles
b = with boulders

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee D18 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(D2488 – 09) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved June 15, 2009.)

(1) Revised Section 1.2.3.

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