ASTM D427-04 PDF Download

ASTM D427-04 is a test method that is used to determine the shrinkage factors of soils using the mercury method. The purpose of this standard is to obtain data that can be used to calculate the shrinkage limit and the shrinkage ratio of soils. It is important to note that this test method uses mercury, which is a hazardous substance. Therefore, an alternate method that does not use mercury, such as Test Method D 4943, can be used in place of this procedure.

The test method focuses on three important water contents that characterize the consistency states of cohesive soils: the liquid limit, plastic limit, and shrinkage limit. These water contents help determine the boundaries of the different consistency states. The test is performed only on the portion of soil that passes through a 425-m (No. 40) sieve. It is crucial to consider the relative contribution of this portion when using this test to evaluate the properties of the soil as a whole.

Accuracy and precision are important in this test method. All observed and calculated values must conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding practices established in Practice D 6026. However, it is important to note that the method used to specify how data are collected, calculated, or recorded in this standard is not directly related to the accuracy with which the data can be applied in design or other uses. The application and interpretation of the results obtained using this standard are beyond its scope.