Standard Method of Test for -- --

2.
REFERENCED DOCUMENTS

Moisture-Density Relations of Soils 2.1.

AASHTO Standards:
• M 92, Wire-Cloth Sieves for Testing Purposes
Using a 2.5-kg (5.5-lb) Rammer and • M 231, Weighing Devices Used in the Testing ofMaterials
• T l 9M/T 19, Bulk Density ("Unit Weight") and Voids in Aggregate
a 305-mm (12-in.) Drop • T 85, Specific Gravity and Absorption ofCoarse Aggregate
• T 217, Determination ofMoisture in Soils by Means of Calcium Carbide Gas Pressure
Moisture Tester
AASHTO Designation: T 99-15
AASHio • T 248, Reducing Samples ofAggregate to Testing Size
1. • T 255, Total Evaporable Moisture Content ofAggregate by Drying
SCOPE
• T 265, Laboratory Determination ofMoisture Content ofSoils
1.1. Thes_e methods oftest are intended for dete . • T 31O, Jn-Place Density and Moisture Content ofSoil and Soil-Aggregate by Nuclear
rmining the relat1on .
between the mo1sture
dens1ty ofsoils compacted in a mold of g1ve . . content and Methods (Shallow Depth)
n s1ze with a 2.�-kg (5.5-lb) rammer drop
height of305 mm (12 in.). Four alterna/ ped from a
e procedures are prov1ded as follows·
• Method A-A 101.60-mm (4-in.) mo . . · 2.2 . ASTM Standards:
Id: So11 material passing a 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve
Sections 4 and 5. • D2 I 68, Standard Test Methods for Calibration of Laboratory Mechanical-Rammer Soil
• Method B-A 152. 40-mm (6-in.) Compactors
mo Id : Sot.1 material
.
passing a 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve
Sections 6 and 7. • E29, Standard Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance
• Method C-A 101.60-mm (4-m. with Specifications
· ) mo ¡d: Soil. matenal passing a 19.0-mm 3
Sections 8 and 9. ( /4-in.) sieve
M, et �od D - A 152.40-mm (6-in.) mold: Soil .
material passing a 19 · O-mm (J/ -tn. .
3. APPARATUS
Sec t 1ons IO and J ¡. 4 ) s1eve
3.1. Mo ld Assembly (Mold, Collar, and Base Plate)-Molds shall be solid-wall, metal cylinders
1.2. The method to be used should be indicate . . manufactured with dimensions and capacities shown in Sections 3.1.1, 3.1.2, and Figures 1 and 2.
d in the spec1fic .
at1ons for the matenal .
method is specified ' the provisions ofM bemg tested. Ifno They shall have a detachable collar approximately 60 mm (2.375 in.) in height, to permit
ethod A shall govern. preparation ofcompacted specimens ofsoil-water mixtures ofthe desired height and volume. The
1.3. This test method applies to soil mixt_ures mold and collar shall be so constructed that it can be fastened firmly to a detachable base plate
that have 40 percent or less retained on the made ofthe same material (Note 2). The base plate shall be plane to 0.005 in. as shown in Figures
(No. 4) sieve when Method A or B •s u 4.75 mm-
sed and 3? percent or less retained on the 19.0 1 and 2.
sieve, when Method C or D is used. M t . -mm (3 /4-in.)
. a enal retamed on these sieves sha 11 be d efimed
part1cles (coarse particles). as oversized Note 2-Alternate types ofmold assemblies with capacities as stipulated herein may be used,
provided the test results are correlated with those ofthe solid-wall mold on severa! soil types and
1.4. lfthe test specimen contains oversized . the same moisture-density results are obtained. Records of such correlation shall be maintained
particles, dry dens1t y and mo1sture corrections must be
made in accordance with Annex A1. and readily available for inspection, when alternate types ofmolds are used.

1.5. Ifthe specified oversized particle maximum 3.1.1. Molds having a volume of0.000943 ± 0.000014 m 3 (0.0333 ± 0.0005 ft:3) shall have an inside
p ercentage 18 exceeded, other methods ofcomp diameter of 1 O1.60 ± 0.40 mm (4.000 ± O.O16 in.) and a height of 116.40 ± 0.50 mm (4.584 ±
control must be used. action
Note 1-0ne method for the design and O.O! 8 in.) (Figure 1). Determine the mold volume in accordance with the "Calibration of
control ofthe compact1o . . .
to determine the required degree ofcomp · n ofsuch soils is to use a test fil] Measure" section ofT l 9M/T 19 for Unit Mass ofAggregate.
action and a method to obtam .
· ti,at c�mpact1on
a m�thod specification to control the com . . . Then use
paction bY spec1fymg the type and s1ze ofcomp Molds having a volume of0.002124 ± 0.000025 m3 (0.07500 ± O. 0009 ft:3) shall have an inside
eqmpment, the lift thickness, and the n action 3.1.2.
umber ofpasses. diameter of152.40 ± 0.70 mm (6.000 ± 0.026 in.) and a height of116.40 ± 0.50 mm (4.584 ±
1.6. The following applies to ali specified limi O.O! 8 in.) (Figure 2). Determine mold volume in accordance with the "Calibration ofMeasure"
ts in th·ts standard.. For the purposes ofdeter section ofT l 9M/T 19 for Unit Mass ofAggregate.
conformance with these specifications mining
o bse ed alue or a calc�lated val�e shall be
off"to the nearest unit" in the last righ rounded
/:and p ;vace o� figures used m expressmg the limiting
value, in accordance with ASTM E29.

1.7. The values stated in SI units are to be rega

rded as the standard.

TS-1b
T 99-1 AASHTO
AASHTO TS-1b T 99-2
 114.30 ± 2.54 D 9.53-1 1--
""! "
"!
+t +I
2b
ll)
� �
(O ci

J.�
ci
+t +t
o

111
o 00
00
ci
ll)

6.35 ± 1.27
3.18 ± 0.64-l

2b

107.95 ± 1.27 D N ,_______ 158.75 ± 1.27------�

+t ,_______ 152.40 ± 0.70------1
101.60 ± 0.40 D

This volume to be This volume to be

0.000943 ± 0.000014 m3 0.002124 ± 0.000025 rn3

o
ll)
ci
+t
o
V
(O

Section A-A Section A-A

A Wing Nut (4)
B Stud (2)
G

A Wing Nut (4) G e Hanger (4)

B Stud (2) D Weld (Top and Bottorn of Each Hanger)

e Hanger (4) E Collar(1)

D Weld (Top and Bottom of Each Hangar) F Mold (1)

G Base Plate (1)
E Collar (1)
F Mold (1)
G Base Plate (1)

,______ 203.20 :t 2.54-----i

�---- 152.40 + 2.54------l Location of Studs in Base Plate
Location of Studs in Base Plate
Notes: 1. Ali dimensions shown in millimeters unless otherwise noted.
2. Hanger on the mold portion only cannot extend above the midheight line.
Notes: 1. Ali dimcnsions shown in millimeters unlcss otherwise noted.
3. Figure 2 is to be used for ali compaction molds purchascd after the publication of the 21 st edition (HM-21 ).
2. Hanger on the mold portion only cannot extend above the midheight line.
3. Figure 1 is to be used for ali compaction molds purchased after the publication ofthc 21st edition (HM-21).
Figure 2-Cylindrical Mold and Base Plate (152.4-mm Mold)
Figure 1-Cylindrical Mold and Base Plate (101.6-mm Mold)

TS-1b T 99-3 AASHTO TS-1b T 99-4 AASHTO

 Rammer Face-The circular face rammer shall be used, but a sector face may be used as an
Table 1-Dimensional Equivalents for Figure l 3.2.3.
alternative, provided the report shall indicate type offace used other than the 50.8-mm (2-in.)
mm in. mm in. circular face, and it shall have an area equal to that ofthe circular face rammer.
3.18± 0.64 0.125±0.025 50.80±0.64 2.000 ±0.025
3.81 O.ISO 60.33±1.27 2.375±0.050
3.3. Sample Extruder (for Solid-Walled Molds Only)-A jack, lever, frame, or other device adopted for
6.35±1.27 0.250±o.oso 101.60±0.41 4.000±o.o16 the purpose ofextruding compacted specimens from the mold.
7.62 0.300 107.95±1.27 4.250±o.oso
9.53± 0.64 0.375±0.025 114.30±2.54 4.500±o.100 Balances and Sea/es-A balance or scale conforming to the requirements ofM 231, Class G 5.
0.500±0.100 116.43±0.13 4.584±0.005
3.4.
12.70± 2.54 Also, a balance conforming to the requirements ofM 231, Class G 2.
17.78±1.27 0.700±0.050 152.40±2.54 6.000±0.100
Note 4--The capacity ofthe metric balance or scale should be approximately 11.5 kg when used
20.32 0.800 165.10±2.54 6.500± 0.100
to weigh the 152.40-mm (6-in.) mold and compacted, moist soil; however, when the 101.60-mm
38.10±2.54 1.500±0.100 172.72±2.54 6.800± 0.100
(4-in.) mold is used, a balance or scale oflesser capacity than the 11.5 kg may be used, ifthe
0.000943± 0.000009 m3 0.0333±0.0005 ft3
sensitivity and readability is I g.

Table 2-Dimensional Equivalents for Figure 2 3.5. Drying Oven-A thermostatically controlled drying oven capable ofmaintaining a temperature of
11O ± 5º C (230 ± 9º F) for drying moisture samples.
mm m. mm m.
3.18±0.64 0.125± 0.025 50.80±0.64 2.000± 0.025
Straightedge-A hardened-steel straightedge at least 250 mm (\O in.) in length. It shall have one
3.81 O.ISO 60.33± 1.27 2.375±o.oso 3.6.
0.250±o.oso 116.43± 0.13 4.584±0.005
beveled edge, and at least one longitudinal surface (used for final trimming) shall be plane within
6.35±1.27
7.62 0.300 152.40± 0.66 6.000± 0.026
0.250 mm per 250 mm (0.01 in. per 10 in.) (0.1 percent) oflength within the portion used for
9.53±0.64 0.375±0.025 158.75±1.27 6.250±o.oso
trimming the soil (Note 5).
12.70± 2.54 0.500±0.100 165.10 ±2.54 6.500±0.100 Note 5--The beveled edge may be used for final trimming ifthe edge is true within a tolerance of
17.78±1.27 0.700±o.oso 172.72±2.54 6.800±0.100 0.250 mm per 250 mm (0.1 percent) oflength; however, with continued use, the cutting edge may
20.32 0.800 203.23±2.54 8.000±0.100 become excessively wom and not suitable for trimming the soil to the leve) ofthe mold. The
38.10±2.54 1.500± 0.100 215.90±2.54 8.500±0.100 straightedge should not be so flexible that trimming the soil with the cutting edge will cause a
0.002124±0.000025 m3 0.0750± 0.0009 ft3 concave soil surface.

3.2. Rammer: 3.7. Sieves-50-mm (2-in.), 19.0-mm ( 314-in.), and 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieves conforming to the
requirements ofM 92.
3.2.1. Manually Operated-Metal rammer with a mass of2.495 ± 0.009 kg (5.5 ± 0.02 lb), and having a
tlat circular face of50.80-mm (2.000-in.) diameter with a manufacturing tolerance of± 0.25 mm 3.8. Mixing Too/s-Miscellaneous tools such as mixing pan, spoon, trowel, spatula, etc., or a suitable
(O.O! in.). The in-service diameter ofthe flat circular face shall be not less than 50.42 mm mechanical device for thoroughly mixing the sample ofsoil with increments ofwater.
(1.985 in.). The rammer shall be equipped with a suitable guide-sleeve to control the height of
drop to a free fall of305 ± 2 mm (12.00 ± 0.06 in.) above the elevation ofthe soil. The guide­ 3.9. Containers-Suitable containers made ofmaterial resistant to corrosion and not subject to change
sleeve shall have at least four vent holes, no smaller than 9.5-mm (3 18-in.) diameter spaced in mass or disintegration on repeated heating and cooling. Containers shall have close-fitting lids
approximately 90 degrees (1.57 rad) apart and approximately 19 mm (314 in.) from each end; and to prevent loss ofmoisture from samples before initial mass determination and to prevent
shall provide sufficient clearance so the free fall ofthe rammer shaft and head is unrestricted. absorption ofmoisture from the atmosphere following drying and before final mass determination.
One container is needed for each moisture content determination.
3.2.2. Mechanically Operated-A metal rammer that is equipped with a device to control the height of
drop to a free fall of305 ± 2 mm (12.00 ± 0.06 in.) above the elevation ofthe soil and uniformly
distributes such drops to the soil surface (Note 3). The rammer shall have a mass of2.495 ± METHODA
0.009 kg (5.5 ± 0.02 lb), and have a flat circular face of50.80-mm (2.000-in.) diameter with a
manufactured tolerance of± 0.25 mm (0.01 in.). The in-service diameter ofthe flat circular face 4. SAMPLE
shall be not less than 50.42 mm (1 .985 in.). The mechanical rammer shall be calibrated by
ASTM D2168. 4.1. Obtain a representative sample. This sample must be large enough that when the oversized
Note 3--It may be impractica\ to adjust the mechanical apparatus so the free fall is 305 mm (retained on the 4.75-mm [No. 4) sieve) particles are removed 3 kg (7 lb) or more ofthe sample
(12 in.) each time the rammer is dropped, as with the manually operated rammer. To make the remains.
adjustment offree fall, the portion ofloose soil to receive the initial blow should be slightly
compressed with the rammer to establish the point ofimpact from which the 305-mm drop is 4.2. Dry the sample until it becomes friable under a trowel. Drying may be in air or by use ofa drying
determined. Subsequent blows on the !ayer ofsoil being compacted may ali be applied by apparatus that is maintained at a temperature not exceeding 60ºC (140º F). Thoroughly break up
dropping the rammer from a height of305 mm above the initial-setting elevation; or, when the the aggregations in such a manner as to avoid reducing the natural size ofindividual particles.
mechanical apparatus is designed with a height adjustment for each blow, ali subsequent blows
should have a rammer free fall of305 mm measured from the elevation ofthe soil as compacted 4.3. Sieve the soil over the 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve. When the sample has oversized particles, particles
by the previous blow. A more detailed calibration procedure for laboratory mechanical-rammer retained on the 4. 75-mm (No. 4) sieve, refer to the Annex A1.
soil compactors can be found in ASTM D2 l 68.

TS-1b AASHTO TS-1b T 99-6 AASHTO

T 99-5
 ---
4.4. Reduce the sample, to a mass of3 kg
(7 lb) or more in accordance with T
248.
5. PROCEDURE
5.1. Determine the mass ofthe mold and
base plate .
5.2. Thoroughly mix the selected represen
tative sampfe with suffi cient water
approx1matefy four to e1ght percent to dampen it to
age points below optim
um moisture content . Shaded region
Note 6--When developing a com mustrates a
pacti on curve for free-draining soil
gra�els , where seepage occurs at th s , s uch as uniform sa
nds anct representative
e b ottom of the mo ld a
mo sture con ent sam pl
nd base pl ate, taking a represent moisture content
� � e from the mixing bowl ative
may be prefer re d to de
mo1 sture available for
compaction. termine the amount of sample

5.3. Cut face

Forro a specimen by compacting th
e prepared soil in the 101
three ap�rox1_ mately equal layers to . 60-mm (4-in.) mold assembly (in
. give a total compacted depth of abou
c�mpact1 on, place the l .
oose so1l mto the mo ld
t 125 mm (5 in.). Prior to
_ assemb ly and spread in
t� 1ckness . L1ghtly tamp to a layer of uniform
th: soil prior t o comp
a tion u tif it is not in a
e , ther the i_n anual c om
pact1 on rammer or a s imilar � � _ foose or fluffy state, using
.
50 mm (2 111. ). Folfo wmg comp acti on dev,ce havmg a face diameter o fappr
oximately
of each o fth e first two
wafl� that has not ? een corn acted layers, any soif adjacent to the
� or extends above the cornpacted surface mofd
a k111�e o r oth er su table shall be trimmed us
� dev1 ce and evenly distributed on to ing Figure 3-Represen tative M oisture Content Sample Selection
25 umforrnly d1 �tnbuted blo s frorn p o f the ! ayer. Cornpact each laye
th r dropping free fro rn a height of30 r by
abov e the elevat , on o f t
':" e ram me
5 mm (l 2 in.)
_ _ he soil when a sleeve-type r ammer
is used, or from 305 mm above the
5.5. Thor oughly break up the r emaining portion of the molded specim en un
app ox1mate ele at1 011 til i t will pass through a
� � o fcompacted soil when a stati onary 4.75-mm (N o. 4) sieve as judged by eye, and add to the remaining po
Durmg �ornpact1011, th rn old assern rno unted type of rammer is used. rtion ofthe sample being
� bfy shall r est firm ly on tested. Add w ater in suffi cient amount to incr
a dense, uniforrn, rigid, ease the moi sture cont ent o fth e soil I t o 2
foundat10n or base. Th,s base shall a nd stable
p ercentage points (water content incr ements should not exceed 2.5 perce
remain stationary durin g the compac nt except when heavy
Note 7-Each ofthe following has tion process (Note 7). clay soils or organic soils exhibiting fl at elong
been found to be a satis ated curves ar e encounter e d; the wat er conten
assembly during com pa factory base on which to rest the mol incr em ents may be incr eased to a maximurn o f4 percent) and repeat t
t
� ti on of the so if: a block ofconcrete, with a mass d he above procedure for each
lb), supp orted by a relat1ve y stabl e n o t less tha n 90 kg (200 increment ofwater added. When the series ofdeterminations indicate
! foundation; a soun d concrete floor; a decrease or no change in
such surfa ces as a re fou and for fr e id a pplication, the wet unit mass, W1, per cubi c meter (cubic foot) ofthe compacted
nd 111 co ncr ete box culv soil (Not e 8) perform one
erts, bridges, and paveme
nts. mor e det ermination such that there is a minim
u m oftwo determinations over optirnum moisture.
5.3.1. Following comp action, remove the
collar; ca re fu lly trim th Note 8-In instances where the soil material is fragile in character an
th� 1:1º '� by means ofth e straightedge e comp acted soi l even
wi th the top of d will r educe signifi cantly in
, and determine the mass o fthe mold, grain size due to repeated cornpaction, and in cases where the soil is a
so ll 111 kdograms to the b ase plat e, and moist heavy-textured clayey
nearest one gram , or dete
rmine the m ass in pounds to the n ear material into whi ch it is diffi cult to incorporate water, a separate and n
0.005 pounds. Calculate the w et densi est
ew sample shall be used in
ty, W,, as describ ed in each compaction test. In th ese cases, sep ar ate
Section 12.1. samples shall b e thoroughly mixe d with amount
s of
water suffi cient to cause th e moisture contents ofthe sampfes to vary
5.4. b y approxirnately two
Deta ch the b ase plate and remove t percentage points . The moi sture points selected shall bracket the optim
_ he material from the mold and slice um moisture con tent, thus
�enter. T ake a repres:ntativ vertically through the providing sarnples that, when cornpacted, will increase in mass to the ma
_ e sam p le o fthe ma terial from o ne
of the cut faces (Figure ximum density and then
1m med1ately. Determm e the moistur 3) and weigh decre ase in rnass. The samples ofsoil-water mixtures shall b e placed
e content in accordance in cov ered containers and
with T 265 and record the r esults.
allowed t o stand for not less th an 12 h ours be
fore making the moisture-density tes t.
5.5.1. I n instances where the soil material is fragile in character and will be re
duced significantly in grain
size b y r ep eated compacti on, a se par ate and n ew
sample shall be used in each compaction t est .

METHOD B
6, SAMPLE
6.1. Obtain a representativ e sarnple in accordance with S ection 4, except th
at the sample shall hav e a
m í nim um mass of 7 kg (16 lb).

TS-1b
T 99-7
AASHTO TS-1 b T 99-8 AASHTO
7. PROCEDURE - g.4. Detach the base plate and remove the material from the mold and slice vertically through the
center. Take a representative sample ofthe material from one ofthe cut faces and weigh
7.1. immediately. Determine the moisture content in accordance with T 265 and record the results.
Follow the s�me procedure as described for Method A in Section 5, except for the following:
Form ª spec1men by compactin? the prepared soil in the 152.4-mm (6-in.) mold assembly in three
. 9.5. Thoroughly break up the remainder ofthe material until it will pass through a 19.0-mm sieve and
ap�rox1mately equal layers to g1ve a total compacted depth ofabout 125 mm (5 in.), each layer
bemg compacted by 56 uniformly distributed blows from the rammer. Calculate the wet density 90 percent ofthe soil aggregations will pass a 4.75-mm sieve asjudged by eye, and add to the
W1 , as described in Section 12.1. remaining portion ofthe sample being tested. Add water in sufficient amounts to increase the
moisture content ofthe soil sample by one or two percentage points, and repeat the above
procedure for each increment ofwater added (Note 8). When the series ofdeterminations indicate
METHOD C a decrease or no change in the wet unit mass, W l , per cubic meter (cubic foot) ofthe compacted
soil perform one more determination such that there is a mínimum oftwo determinations over
8. SAMPLE optimum moisture.

8.1. Obtain a representative sample. This sample must be large enough that when the oversized METHOD D
(retained on the 19.0-mm [ 3 /4 -in.] sieve) particles are removed 5 kg (11 lb) or more ofthe sample
_
remams.
10. SAMPLE
8.2. Dry the sampl� unti� it �ecomes friable under a trowel. Drying may be in air or by use ofa drying
10.1. Obtain a representative sample in accordance with Section 8 except that it shall have a mass of
apparatus th�t 1s �amtamed at a temperature not exceeding 60º C (140ºF). Thoroughly break up
approximately 11 kg (25 lb).
the aggregat1ons m such a manner as to avoid reducing the natural size ofindividual particles.

8.3. Sieve soil over the 19.0-mm (¾-in.) sieve. When the sample has oversized particles, see Annex 11. PROCEDURE
Al.
11.1. Follow the same procedure as described for Method C in Section 9, except for the following: Form
8.4. Reduce the sample t o a mass o f5 k g (11 lb) or more in accordance with T 248. a specimen by compacting the prepared soil in the 152.4-mm (6-in.) mold assembly in three
approximately equal layers to give a total compacted depth ofabout 125 mm (5 in.), each ]ayer
being compacted by 56 uniformly distributed blows from the rammer. Calculate the wet density,
9. PROCEDURE W1, as described in Section 12.1.
9.1. Determine the mass ofthe mold and base plate.
CALCULATIONS AND REPORT
9.2. Thoroughly mix the selected representative sample with sufficient water to <lampen it to
approximately four to eight percentage points below optimum moisture content (Note 6).
12. CALCULATIONS
9.3. Form a specimen by compacting the prepared soil in the JO1.60-mm (4-in.) mold assembly in
12.1. Wet density (W1 ) shall be determined using the mold volume. For masses recorded in kilograms,
three approximately equal layers to give a total compacted depth ofabout 125 mm (5 in.). Prior to
the unit ofwet density is kilograms per cubic meter ofcompacted soil. For masses recorded in
compaction, place the loose soil into the mold assembly and spread into a }ayer ofuniform
pounds, the unit ofwet density is pounds per cubic foot ofcompacted soil.
thickness. Lightly tamp the soil prior to compaction until it is not in a loose or fluffy state, using
either the manual compaction rammer or a similar device having a face diameter ofapproximately W1 (A-B)IV
=
(1)
50 mm (2 in.). Following compaction ofeach ofthe first two layers, any soil adjacent to the mold where:
walls that has not been compacted or extends above the compacted surface shall be trirnmed W1 wet density in kg/m3 (lb/ft3 ) of compacted soil,
using a knife or other suitable device and evenly distributed on top ofthe !ayer. Compact
A mass ofthe mold, base plate, and wet soil,
each !ayer by 25 uniformly distributed blows from the rammer dropping free from a height of
305 mm (12 in.) above the elevation ofthe soil when a sleeve-type rammer is used, or from B mass ofthe mold, base plate,
305 mm (12 in.) above the approximate elevation of each finely compacted !ayer when a
stationary mounted-type rammer is used. During compaction, the mold assembly shall rest firmly 12.2. V= mold volume as determined in Section 3.1.1 for Methods A and C, or Section 3.1.2 for
on a dense, uniform, rigid, and stable foundation (Note 7). Methods B and D. The dry density is related to the wet density as follows:

9.3.1. Following compaction, remove the collar; carefully trim the compacted soil even with the top of W= � X 100 (2)
w+IOO
the mold by means of the straightedge. Holes developed in the surface by removal ofcoarse
material shall be patched witb smaller-sized material. Determine the mass ofthe mold, base plate, where:
and moist soil in kilograms to the nearest one gram, or determine the mass in pounds to the nearest W dry density, in kg/m3 (lb/ft3 ) ofcompacted soil,
0.005 pounds. Calculate the wet density, W1 , as described in Section 12. I. W1 wet density in kg/m3 (lb/ft3 ) ofcompacted soil,
w moisture content (percent) ofthe specimen.

TS-1b T 99-9 AASHTO TS-1b T 99-10 AASHTO

13. MOISTURE-DENSITY RELATIONSHIP 16. KEYWORDS
13.1. The calculations in Section 12 shall be made to determine the wet density (unit mass) and oven­ 16.1. Compaction; moisture content; sieve; soil density; soil moisture.
dry density (unit mass) in kilograms per cubic meter or pounds per cubic foot ofthe compacted
samples. The oven-dry densities ofthe soil shall be plotted as ordinates, and the corresponding
moisture content as abscissas. ANNEX
13.2. Optimum Moisture Content-When the densities and corresponding moisture contents for the soil (Mandatory fnformation)
have been determined and plotted as indicated in Section 13.1, it will be found that by connecting
the plotted points with a smooth line, a curve is produced. The moisture content corresponding to A1. CORRECTION OF MAXIMUM DRY DENSITY ANO OPTIMUM
the peak ofthe curve shall be termed the "optimum moisture content" ofthe soil under the MOISTURE FOR OVERSIZED PARTICLES
above compaction.
A1.1. This section corrects the maximum dry density and moisture content ofthe material retained on
13.3. Maximum Dry Density-The oven-dry density in kilograms per cubic meter or pounds per cubic the 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve, Methods A and B; or the material retained on the 19.0-mm (3/4-in.)
foot ofthe soil at optimum moisture content shall be termed "maximum dry density" under the sieve, Methods C and D. The maximum dry density, adjusted for oversized particles and total
above compaction. moisture content, are compared with the field-dry density and field moisture content.

14. REPORT A1.1.1. This correction can be applied to the sample on which the maximum dry density is performed.

14.1. The report shall include the following: A1.1.2. This correction can also be applied to the sample obtained from the field while performing in­
place density. Obtain the sample in accordance with T 31O, Section 9.6. Sieve the sample over the
14.1.1. The method used (Method A, B, C, or D). appropriate sieve. Use the alternative drying method [A 1.3.2].

14.1.2. Note A1- Correction may not be ofpractical significance for materials with only a small
The optimum moisture content to the nearest 0.1 percent.
percentage ofoversized particles. Jfa mínimum percentage is not specified, correction shall be
applied to samples with more than 5 percent by weight ofoversized particles.
14.1.3. The maximum density to the nearest 1 kg/m3 (0.1 lblft\
A1.2. Bulk specific gravity (G,b) ofthe oversized particles is required to determine the corrected
14.1.4. Type offace ifother than 50.8 mm (2 in.) circular.
maximum dry density. lfthe bulk specific gravity has been determined in accordance with T 85,
this value should be used in the calculations. For most construction activities, the specific gravity
14.1.5. Oversized particle correction. can be assumed to be 2.600.
14.1.5.1. The adjusted maximum dry density to the nearest I kg/m3 (0.1 lb!ft\ A1.3. Determine the dry mass ofthe oversized and fine fractions [M0cand M oFJ.
14.1.5.2. The corrected optimum moisture content to the nearest 0.1 percent. A1.3.1. Ifnecessary dry the fractions, fine and oversized, in air or by use ofa drying apparatus that is
maintained at a temperature not exceeding 60ºC (140ºF).
14.1.5.3. The oversized particles to the nearest 0.1 percent ofthe original dry mass ofthe sample.
A1.3.2. Alternatively determine the moist mass ofboth fractions, fine (MM¡) and oversized (MMc). Obtain
14.1.5.4. G.,6 ofoversized particles to the nearest 0.001. moisture samples from the fine and oversized material. Determine the moisture content ofthe fine
particles (MC¡) and oversized particles (MCc) ofthe material. The moisture contents can be
15. PRECISION STATEMENT determined by T 265, T 217, or T 255. Ifthe moisture content ofthe oversized particles is
generally known, substitute that moisture content in the calculations.
15.1. Repeatability (Single Operator)-Two results obtained by the same operation on the same sample
in the same laboratory using the same apparatus and on different days should be considered A1.3.2.1. Calculate the dry mass ofthe oversized and fine particles as follows:
suspect if they differ by more than I O percent oftheir mean for optimum moisture content and
35 kg/m3 (2.2 lb/ft3 ) for maximum density.
M D = M M / (1 + MC) (A1.1)
15.2. Reproducibility (Multilaboratory)-Two results obtained by different operators in different where:
laboratories should be considered suspect ifthey differ by more than 15 percent oftheir mean for M0 mass ofdry material (fine or oversized particles);
optimum moisture and 72 kg/m3 (4.5 lb/ft3 ) for maximum density.
MM mass ofmoist material (fine or oversized particles); and
15.3. ANNEX 1, Oversized Particle Correction-Since the correction for coarse particles involves no MC moisture content ofrespective fine or oversized particles, expressed as a decimal.
testing but instead utilizes the results ofother tests and mathematically combines the results,
determination ofthe precision and accuracy is not applicable.

TS-1b T 99-11 AASHTO TS-1b T 99-12 AASHTO

A1.4. Calculate the percentage of the fine particles and oversized particles by dry weight ofthe total
sample as follows: standard Method of Test for

P1 = 100 M 0F l(M 0F + M 0e ) (Al.2) Specific Gravity of Soils

and
Pe = 100 M 0c l(M 0F + M 0e ) (Al.3)
AA SHTO Designation: T 100-15 AASHiD
where:
P¡ percent ofdry fine particles;
ASTM Designation: D854-00
MvF = mass ofdry fine particles;
1. SCOPE
M0e = mass ofdry oversized particles; and
Pe percent ofoversized particles ofsieve used. 1.1. This method covers determination ofthe specific gravity ofsoils composed ofparticles smaller
than the 4. 75-mm (No. 4) sieve by means ofa pycnometer. When the soil is composed ofparticles
A1.5. Calculate the corrected optimum moisture content ofthe total sample (combined fine and larger than the 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve, the method outlined in T 85 shall be followed. When the
oversized particles) as follows: soil is composed ofparticles both larger and smaller than the 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve, the sample
shall be separated on the 4. 75-mm (No. 4) sieve, the appropriate test method should be used on
MCr = (MC1 P1 + MCc Pe )/100 (Al.5) each portion, and a weighted average should be calculated.

where: 1.2. The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.
MCr = corrected optimum moisture content ofthe total sample expressed as a decimal,
MC¡ = optimum moisture content ofthe fine particles, expressed as a decimal, 1.3. This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does
not purport to address ali of the safety concerns associated with its use. lt is the responsibility oj
P¡ = percent offine particles ofsieve used, the user of this standard to consult and establish appropriate safety and health practices and
MCc = moisture content ofthe oversized particles, expressed as a decimal; and determine the app/icability of regulatory lirnitations prior to use.
Pe = percent ofoversized particles ofsieve used.
2. REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
A1.6. Calculate the corrected dry density ofthe total sample (combined fine and oversized particles) as
follows: 2.1. AASHTO Standards:
• M 92, Wire-Cloth Sieves for Testing Purposes
Dd = 100 D1 kl(D1 Pc + kP1 ) (Al.6) • M 231, Weighing Devices Used in the Testing ofMaterials
where: • R 18, Establishing and Implementing a Quality Management System for Construction
Dd corrected maximum dry density ofthe total sample, kg/m3 (lb/ft3), Materials Testing Laboratories
D¡ maximum dry density ofthe fine particles, kg/m3 (lb/ft3), • R 61, Establishing Requirements for Equipment Calibrations, Standardizations, and Checks
k 1000 x Bulk Specific Gravity (Gs6) (oven-dry basis) ofcoarse particles, kg/m3 ; or 62.4 x • T 85, Specific Gravity and Absorption ofCoarse Aggregate
Bulk Specific Gravity (G,6) ( oven-dry basis) ofcoarse particles, lb/ft3 , • T 88, Particle Size Analysis ofSoils
Pe percent ofoversized particles ofsieve used, and
2.2. ASTM Standards:
P¡ percent of fine particles of sieve used.
• C670, Standard Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements for Test Methods for
Construction Materials
• El, Standard Specification for ASTM Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers
• E29, Standard Practice for Using Significant Digits in Test Data to Determine Conformance
with Specifications
• E77, Standard Test Method for Inspection and Verification ofThermometers
• E563, Standard Practice for Preparation and Use ofan Ice-Point Bath as a Reference
Temperature
• E644, Standard Test Methods for Testing Industrial Resistance Thermometers
• El 137, Standard Specification for Industrial Platinum Resistance Thermometers
• E225 I, Standard Specification for Liquid-in-Glass ASTM Thermometers with Low-Hazard
Precision Liquids

TS-1b T 99-13 AASHTO TS-1a T 100-1 AASHTO