ASTM D6780/D6780M-19
Standard Test Methods for Water Content and Density of Soil In situ by Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR)

Standard No.

ASTM D6780/D6780M-19

Release Date

2019

Published By

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)

Latest

ASTM D6780/D6780M-19

Scope

1.1 This test method may be used to determine the water content of soils and the density of soils in place using Time Domain Reflectometry. 1.2 This test method applies to soils that have 30 % or less by weight of their particles retained on the 19.0-mm [3⁄4-in.] sieve. 1.3 This test method is suitable for use as a means of acceptance for compacted fill or embankments. 1.4 This test method is not appropriate for frozen soils or soils at temperatures over 40°C [100°F] and may not be suitable for organic soils, highly plastic soils, or extremely dense soils. 1.5 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026. 1.5.1 The method used to specify how data are collected, calculated, or recorded in this standard is not directly related to the accuracy to which the data can be applied in design or other uses, or both. How one applies the results obtained using this standard is beyond its scope.2 1.6 Two alternative procedures are provided to determine the water content and the density of soil in situ: 1.6.1 Procedure A involves two tests in the field, an in situ test and a test in a mold containing material excavated from the in situ test location. The apparent dielectric constant is determined in both tests. 1.6.2 Procedure B involves only an in situ test by incorporating the first voltage drop and long term voltage (V1 and Vf ) in addition to the apparent dielectric constant. While the bulk electrical conductivity can be determined from these measurements, it is not needed for the determination of water content and density. 1.7 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inchpound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard. For additional information consult SI10. 1.8 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. 1.9 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.

ASTM D6780/D6780M-19 Referenced Document

• ASTM D1557 Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using Modified Effort (56,000 ft-lbf/ft³ (2,700 kN-m/m³))
• ASTM D2216 Standard Test Method for Laboratory Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
• ASTM D2487 Standard Test Method for Classification Of Soils For Engineering Purposes
• ASTM D3740 Standard Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in the Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction
• ASTM D4753 Standard Specification for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Balances and Scales for Use in Soil, Rock, and Construction Materials Testing
• ASTM D6026 Standard Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical Data
• ASTM D653 Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• ASTM D698 Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using Standard Effort (12 400 ft-lbf/ft³ (600 kN-m/m³))*， 2024-04-20 Update
• ASTM E2877 Standard Guide for Digital Contact Thermometers*， 2024-04-20 Update

ASTM D6780/D6780M-19 history

• 2019 ASTM D6780/D6780M-19 Standard Test Methods for Water Content and Density of Soil In situ by Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR)
• 2012 ASTM D6780/D6780M-12 Standard Test Method for Water Content and Density of Soil In situ by Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR)
• 2005 ASTM D6780-05 Standard Test Method for Water Content and Density of Soil in Place by Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR)
• 2002 ASTM D6780-02 Standard Test Method for Water Content and Density of Soil in Place by Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR)