One of the important parameters that affects the strength, compaction, and stability of soils is moisture content. The wrong moisture levels will result in settlement, low load-bearing capacity, and premature failure of structures. ASTM D6980-17 offers a standardized method of establishing the moisture content with the use of accurate testing methods. The standard is popular in both laboratory and on-field practice to aid in construction decision-making and project specifications. Professionals can maintain consistency of testing and have confidence in the results by adhering to ASTM D6980-17.
Purpose of ASTM D6980-17
The standard was primarily developed to establish a reliable approach to measuring moisture in soil samples. The standard provides the repeatability and comparability of moisture determination in various laboratories. Proper compaction control and material performance assessment in civil engineering projects rely on accurate moisture data.
Principle of the Test Method
ASTM D6980-17 relies on the measurement of the loss of water of a sample under controlled conditions. Moisture content as a percentage of the dry mass is calculated by the change in mass before and after testing. The approach aims at reducing the use of externalities that can influence accuracy, e.g., changes in temperature or contamination of the sample.
