Lab Services: Soil testing

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Test Method Title

Standard Test Methods for Minimum Index Density and Unit Weight of Soils and Calculation of Relative Density

Reference Number

ASTM D4254

Material

Soil

Test Property

Minimum index density, minimum unit weight

Description of Test

The minimum index density/unit weight represents the loosest condition of a cohesionless, free-draining soil that can be attained by a standard laboratory procedure, which prevents bulking and minimizes particle segregation. Any particular procedure selected will consist of determining the density/unit weight of oven-dried soil placed into a container of known volume in such a manner that prevents bulking and particle segregation, and minimizes compaction of the soil.

Preferred Test Sample Size

Number of Test Specimens

1

Test Specimen Size

0.1 ft³ to 0.5 ft³, depending on maximum particle size

Keywords

Minimum index density, minimum index unit weight, relative density