ASTM D4609-08

This guide is intended to assist users and producers of soil modifiers, and stabilizers in the evaluation of a product's potential for improving a soil's engineering properties (such as deformation under load, shear strength, and volume stability).

The results of these tests can be used to make a decision to continue experimentation to assess longevity, durability, and practical value, and establish appropriate rates of application for field trials.

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 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 results. Reliable results depend on many factors. Practice D 3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.

1.1 This guide describes laboratory techniques for evaluating the effectiveness of admixtures for improving the engineering properties of fine-grained soils.

1.2 Effectiveness is assessed by comparing the unconfined compressive strength (UCS), moisture susceptibility, and moisture-density relationships (MD) of treated and untreated soils.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only.

1.4 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.

1.5 This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this guide 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.