ASTM D4015-21 PDF Download

ASTM D4015-21 is a standard that provides test methods for determining the modulus and damping of soils using fixed-base resonant column devices. These test methods are applicable to solid cylindrical specimens of soil in intact and reconstituted conditions. The specimens are subjected to torsional vibration, which can be superposed on a controlled static state of stress. The test methods allow for the determination of shear modulus and shear damping as a function of shear strain amplitude.

The standard covers two device configurations: Device Type 1, where a known torque is applied to the top of the specimen and the resulting rotational motion is measured at the top, and Device Type 2, where an uncalibrated torque is applied to the top and the torque transmitted through the specimen is measured at the base. In both cases, the torque is applied and measured at the active end of the specimen.

It is important to note that these test methods focus on the determination of shear modulus and shear damping and do not cover the application, measurement, or control of the axial and lateral static normal stresses. Additionally, the standard provides guidelines for significant digits and rounding of recorded and calculated values.

The standard includes both SI units and inch-pound units, where the latter uses the gravitational system of units. However, it is emphasized that the use of two separate sets of inch-pound units within a single standard is scientifically undesirable. Nonetheless, the use of balances or scales recording pounds of mass or density in pounds per cubic foot is permitted.