ASTM D4611-16 PDF Download

The ASTM D4611-16 standard describes the procedure for determining the instantaneous and mean values of the specific heat of rock and soil. The specific heat is a thermodynamic property that depends on the chemical or mineralogical composition and temperature of the material. It is an essential property when these materials are used under conditions of unsteady or transient heat flow.

The test method employs the classical method of mixtures, which involves simpler procedures and apparatus compared to scientific calorimetry but still provides adequate accuracy for most rocks and soils. The procedure can be adapted to measure the specific heat of other materials as well. The testing procedure provides either an instantaneous specific heat or a mean specific heat over a temperature range of 25 to 300°C.

The test procedure is limited to dry specimens of soil and rock. The standard emphasizes the importance of competent personnel, suitable equipment, and facilities for reliable results. Compliance with the criteria of Practice D3740 is recommended but not sufficient on its own to ensure reliable results. The standard also provides guidelines for significant digits and rounding of observed and calculated values, following the procedures established in Practice D6026. However, these procedures do not consider material variation, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any considerations for the user's objectives, which may require adjustments to the reported data.