ASTM D559/D559M-15 PDF Download

ASTM D559/D559M-15 is a standard that provides test methods for determining the resistance of compacted soil-cement mixtures to repeated wetting and drying. The purpose of these test methods is to determine the minimum amount of cement required in soil-cement mixtures to achieve sufficient hardness to resist weathering in the field.

The standard includes two test methods, Test Method A and Test Method B, depending on the soil gradation. Test Method A is used when 100% of the soil sample passes a 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve, while Test Method B is used when part of the soil sample is retained on the 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve, but no more than 30%.

The test methods involve compacting the soil-cement specimens in a mold before cement hydration, to maximum density at optimum water content using the compaction procedure described in Test Methods D558. The specimens are then subjected to repeated wetting and drying, and the soil-cement losses, water content changes, and volume changes (swell and shrinkage) are measured and recorded.

It is important to note that the quality of the test results produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing the test, as well as the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Compliance with the criteria provided in Practice D3740 is recommended to ensure competent and objective testing. However, compliance with Practice D3740 alone does not guarantee reliable results, as many factors can influence the accuracy of the test. The standard also emphasizes the need to follow the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026.