1.1This test method covers the procedure for determining the cement content of fresh soil-cement. This test method can be used for determining the cement content of specimens that contain 3 to 16 % cement. This test method is appropriate for soil-cement containing up to 55 % plus 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve-size particles with a maximum particle size of 75 mm (3 in.). It should not be used for determining the Class F pozzolan content of these mixtures.
1.2All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026.
1.2.1The procedures used to specify how data are collected/recorded and calculated in this test method are regarded as the industry standard. In addition, they are representative of the significant digits that should generally be retained. The procedures used do not consider material variation, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any considerations for the user’s objectives; it is common practice to increase or reduce significant digits of reported data commensurate with such considerations. It is beyond the scope of this test method to consider significant digits used in analysis methods for engineering design.
1.3Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to inch-pound units, which are provided for information only and are not considered standard. Reporting of test results in units other than SI shall not be regarded as nonconformance with this standard.
1.3.1The converted inch-pound units use the gravitational system of units. In this system, the pound (lbf) represents a unit of force (weight), while the unit for mass is slugs. The converted slug unit is not given, unless dynamic (F = ma) calculations are involved.
1.3.2It is common practice in the engineering/construction profession to concurrently use pounds to represent both a unit of mass (lbm) and of force (lbf). This implicitly combines two separate systems of units; that is, the absolute system and the gravitational system. It is scientifically undesirable to combine the use of two separate sets of inch-pound units within a single standard. As stated, this standard includes the gravitational system of inch-pound units and does not use/present the slug unit for mass. However the use of balances or scales, recording pounds of mass (lbm) or recording in lbm/ft3 shall not be regarded as nonconformance with this standard.
1.4This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 8.