Designation: D 698 – 91 (Reapproved 1998)

AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR TESTING AND MATERIALS

100 Barr Harbor Dr., West Conshohocken, PA 19428
Reprinted from the Annual Book of ASTM Standards. Copyright ASTM

Standard Test Method for

Laboratory Compaction Characteristics of Soil Using
Standard Effort (12,400 ft-lbf/ft3(600 kN-m/m3))1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 698; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope 1.3.2 Procedure B:

1.1 This test method covers laboratory compaction proce- 1.3.2.1 Mold—4-in. (101.6-mm) diameter.
dures used to determine the relationship between water content 1.3.2.2 Material—Passing 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm) sieve.
and dry unit weight of soils (compaction curve) compacted in 1.3.2.3 Layers—Three.
a 4 or 6-in. (101.6 or 152.4-mm) diameter mold with a 5.5-lbf 1.3.2.4 Blows per layer—25.
(24.4-N) rammer dropped from a height of 12 in. (305 mm) 1.3.2.5 Use—Shall be used if more than 20 % by weight of
producing a compactive effort of 12,400 ft-lbf/ft3(600 kN-m/ the material is retained on the No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve and 20 %
m3). or less by weight of the material is retained on the 3⁄8-in.
(9.5-mm) sieve.
NOTE 1—The equipment and procedures are similar as those proposed 1.3.2.6 Other Use—If this procedure is not specified, mate-
by R. R. Proctor (Engineering News Record—September 7, 1933) with
this one major exception: his rammer blows were applied as “12 inch firm
rials that meet these gradation requirements may be tested
strokes” instead of free fall, producing variable compactive effort depend- using Procedure C.
ing on the operator, but probably in the range 15,000 to 25,000 ft-lbf/ft3 1.3.3 Procedure C:
(700 to 1,200 kN-m/m3). The standard effort test (see 3.2.2) is sometimes 1.3.3.1 Mold—6-in. (152.4-mm) diameter.
referred to as the Proctor Test. 1.3.3.2 Material—Passing 3⁄4-inch (19.0-mm) sieve.
NOTE 2—Soils and soil-aggregate mixtures should be regarded as 1.3.3.3 Layers—Three.
natural occurring fine- or coarse-grained soils or composites or mixtures 1.3.3.4 Blows per layer—56.
of natural soils, or mixtures of natural and processed soils or aggregates
such as silt, gravel, or crushed rock.
1.3.3.5 Use—Shall be used if more than 20 % by weight of
the material is retained on the 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm) sieve and less
1.2 This test method applies only to soils that have 30 % or than 30 % by weight of the material is retained on the 3⁄4-in.
less by weight of particles retained on the 3⁄4-inch (19.0-mm) (19.0-mm) sieve.
sieve. 1.3.4 The 6-in. (152.4-mm) diameter mold shall not be used
NOTE 3—For relationships between unit weights and water contents of with Procedure A or B.
soils with 30 % or less by weight of material retained on the 3⁄4-in.
NOTE 4—Results have been found to vary slightly when a material is
(19.0-mm) sieve to unit weights and water contents of the fraction passing
3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm) sieve, see Practice D 4718.
tested at the same compactive effort in different size molds.
1.4 If the test specimen contains more than 5 % by weight
1.3 Three alternative procedures are provided. The proce-
oversize fraction (coarse fraction) and the material will not be
dure used shall be as indicated in the specification for the
included in the test, corrections must be made to the unit
material being tested. If no procedure is specified, the choice
weight and water content of the specimen or to the appropriate
should be based on the material gradation.
field in place density test specimen using Practice D 4718.
1.3.1 Procedure A:
1.5 This test method will generally produce a well defined
1.3.1.1 Mold—4-in. (101.6-mm) diameter.
maximum dry unit weight for non-free draining soils. If this
1.3.1.2 Material—Passing No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve.
test method is used for free draining soils the maximum unit
1.3.1.3 Layers—Three.
weight may not be well defined, and can be less than obtained
1.3.1.4 Blows per layer—25.
using Test Methods D 4253.
1.3.1.5 Use—May be used if 20 % or less by weight of the
1.6 The values in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the
material is retained on the No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve.
standard. The values stated in SI units are provided for
1.3.1.6 Other Use—If this procedure is not specified, mate-
information only.
rials that meet these gradation requirements may be tested
1.6.1 In the engineering profession it is customary practice
using Procedures B or C.
to use, interchangeably, units representing both mass and force,
1
unless dynamic calculations (F 5 Ma) are involved. This
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D-18 on Soil
and Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.03 on Texture,
implicitly combines two separate systems of units, that is, the
Plasticity and Density Characteristics of Soils. absolute system and the gravimetric system. It is scientifically
Current edition approved Nov. 19, 1991. Published January 1992.

1
 D 698
undesirable to combine the use of two separate systems within 3. Terminology
a single standard. This test method has been written using 3.1 Definitions: See Terminology D 653 for general defini-
inch-pound units (gravimetric system) where the pound (lbf) tions.
represents a unit of force. The use of mass (lbm) is for 3.2 Description of Terms Specific to This Standard:
convenience of units and is not intended to convey the use is 3.2.1 oversize fraction (coarse fraction), Pc in %—the
scientifically correct. Conversions are given in the SI system in portion of total sample not used in performing the compaction
accordance with Practice E 380. The use of balances or scales test; it may be the portion of total sample retained on the No.
recording pounds of mass (lbm), or the recording of density in 4 (4.75-mm), 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm), or 3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm) sieve.
lbm/ft3 should not be regarded as nonconformance with this 3.2.2 standard effort—the term for the 12,400 ft-lbf/ft3(600
standard. kN-m/m3) compactive effort applied by the equipment and
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the procedures of this test.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the 3.2.3 standard maximum dry unit weight, gdmax in lbf/ft3
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- (kN/m3)—the maximum value defined by the compaction
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- curve for a compaction test using standard effort.
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. 3.2.4 standard optimum water content, wo in %—the water
2. Referenced Documents content at which a soil can be compacted to the maximum dry
unit weight using standard compactive effort.
2.1 ASTM Standards: 3.2.5 test fraction (finer fraction), PF in %—the portion of
C 127 Test Method for Specific Gravity and Absorption of the total sample used in performing the compaction test; it is
Coarse Aggregate2 the fraction passing the No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve in Procedure A,
C 136 Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse minus 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm) sieve in Procedure B, or minus 3⁄4-in.
Aggregate2 (19.0-mm) sieve in Procedure C.
D 422 Test Method for Particle Size Analysis of Soils3
D 653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained 4. Summary of Test Method
Fluids3 4.1 A soil at a selected water content is placed in three
D 854 Test Method for Specific Gravity of Soils3 layers into a mold of given dimensions, with each layer
D 1557 Test Methods for Moisture-Density Relations of compacted by 25 or 56 blows of a 5.5-lbf (24.4-N) rammer
Soils and Soil Aggregate Mixtures Using 10-lb (4.54-kg.) dropped from a distance of 12-in. (305-mm), subjecting the soil
Rammer and 18-in. (457 mm) Drop3 to a total compactive effort of about 12,400 ft-lbf/ft3 (600
D 2168 Test Methods for Calibration of Laboratory kN-m/m3). The resulting dry unit weight is determined. The
Mechanical-Rammer Soil Compactors3 procedure is repeated for a sufficient number of water contents
D 2216 Test Method for Laboratory Determination of Water to establish a relationship between the dry unit weight and the
(Moisture) Content of Soil, Rock and Soil-Aggregate water content for the soil. This data, when plotted, represents a
Mixtures3 curvilinear relationship known as the compaction curve. The
D 2487 Test Method for Classification of Soils for Engi- values of optimum water content and standard maximum dry
neering Purposes3 unit weight are determined from the compaction curve.
D 2488 Practice for Description of Soils (Visual-Manual
Procedure)3 5. Significance and Use
D 4220 Practices for Preserving and Transporting Soil 5.1 Soil placed as engineering fill (embankments, founda-
Samples3 tion pads, road bases) is compacted to a dense state to obtain
D 4253 Test Methods for Maximum Index Density of Soils satisfactory engineering properties such as, shear strength,
Using a Vibratory Table3 compressibility, or permeability. Also, foundation soils are
D 4718 Practice for Correction of Unit Weight and Water often compacted to improve their engineering properties.
Content for Soils Containing Oversize Particles3 Laboratory compaction tests provide the basis for determining
D 4753 Specification for Evaluating, Selecting and Speci- the percent compaction and water content needed to achieve
fying Balances and Scales For Use in Soil and Rock the required engineering properties, and for controlling con-
Testing3 struction to assure that the required compaction and water
E 1 Specification for ASTM Thermometers4 contents are achieved.
E 11 Specification for Wire-Cloth Sieves for Testing Pur- 5.2 During design of an engineered fill, shear, consolidation,
poses5 permeability, or other tests require preparation of test speci-
E 319 Practice for the Evaluation of Single-Pan Mechanical mens by compacting at some water content to some unit
Balances5 weight. It is common practice to first determine the optimum
E 380 Practice for Use of the International System of Units water content (wo) and maximum dry unit weight (gdmax) by
(SI) (the Modernized Metric System)5 means of a compaction test. Test specimens are compacted at
a selected water content (w), either wet or dry of optimum (wo)
2
or at optimum (wo), and at a selected dry unit weight related to
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.02.
3
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.08.
a percentage of maximum dry unit weight (gdmax). The
4
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 14.03. selection of water content (w), either wet or dry of optimum
5
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 14.02. (wo) or at optimum (wo) and the dry unit weight (gdmax) may be
2
 D 698
based on past experience, or a range of values may be
investigated to determine the necessary percent of compaction.

6. Apparatus
6.1 Mold Assembly—The molds shall be cylindrical in
shape, made of rigid metal and be within the capacity and
dimensions indicated in 6.1.1 or 6.1.2 and Fig. 1 and Fig. 2.
The walls of the mold may be solid, split, or tapered. The
“split” type may consist of two half-round sections, or a section
of pipe split along one element, which can be securely locked
together to form a cylinder meeting the requirements of this
section. The “tapered” type shall an internal diameter taper that
is uniform and not more than 0.200 in./ft (16.7- mm/m) of
mold height. Each mold shall have a base plate and an
extension collar assembly, both made of rigid metal and FIG. 2 6.0-in. Cylindrical Mold
constructed so they can be securely attached and easily
detached from the mold. The extension collar assembly shall if the striking face becomes worn or bellied to the extent that
have a height extending above the top of the mold of at least the diameter exceeds 2.000 6 0.01-in. (50.80 6 0.25-mm).
2.0 in. (50.8-mm) which may include an upper section that
flares out to form a funnel provided there is at least a 0.75 in. NOTE 5—It is a common and acceptable practice in the inch-pound
(19.0-mm) straight cylindrical section beneath it. The exten- system to assume that the mass of the rammer is equal to its mass
determined using either a kilogram or pound balance and 1 lbf is equal to
sion collar shall align with the inside of the mold. The bottom
1 lbm or 0.4536 kg. or 1 N is equal to 0.2248 lbm or 0.1020 kg.
of the base plate and bottom of the centrally recessed area that
accepts the cylindrical mold shall be planar. 6.2.1 Manual Rammer—The rammer shall be equipped
6.1.1 Mold, 4 in.—A mold having a 4.000 6 0.016-in. with a guide sleeve that has sufficient clearance that the free
(101.6 6 0.4-mm) average inside diameter, a height of 4.584 6 fall of the rammer shaft and head is not restricted. The guide
0.018-in. (116.4 6 0.5-mm) and a volume of 0.0333 6 0.0005 sleeve shall have at least four vent holes at each end (eight
ft3 (944 6 14 cm3). A mold assembly having the minimum holes total) located with centers 3⁄4 6 1⁄16-in. (19.0 6 1.6-mm)
required features is shown in Fig. 1. from each end and spaced 90 degrees apart. The minimum
6.1.2 Mold, 6 in.—A mold having a 6.000 6 0.026-in. diameter of the vent holes shall be 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm). Additional
(152.4 6 0.7-mm) average inside diameter, a height of 4.584 6 holes or slots may be incorporated in the guide sleeve.
0.018-in. (116.4 6 0.5-mm), and a volume of 0.075 6 0.0009 6.2.2 Mechanical Rammer-Circular Face—The rammer
ft3 (2124 6 25 cm3). A mold assembly having the minimum shall operate mechanically in such a manner as to provide
required features is shown in Fig. 2. uniform and complete coverage of the specimen surface. There
6.2 Rammer—A rammer, either manually operated as de- shall be 0.10 6 0.03-in. (2.5 6 0.8-mm) clearance between the
scribed further in 6.2.1 or mechanically operated as described rammer and the inside surface of the mold at its smallest
in 6.2.2. The rammer shall fall freely through a distance of 12 diameter. The mechanical rammer shall meet the calibration
6 0.05-in. (304.8 6 1.3-mm) from the surface of the specimen. requirements of Test Methods D 2168. The mechanical rammer
The mass of the rammer shall be 5.5 6 0.02-lbm (2.5 6 shall be equipped with a positive mechanical means to support
0.01-kg), except that the mass of the mechanical rammers may the rammer when not in operation.
be adjusted as described in Test Methods D 2168, see Note 5. 6.2.2.1 Mechanical Rammer-Sector Face—When used with
The striking face of the rammer shall be planar and circular, the 6-in. (152.4-mm) mold, a sector face rammer may be used
except as noted in 6.2.2.1, with a diameter when new of 2.000 in place of the circular face rammer. The specimen contact face
6 0.005-in. (50.80 6 0.13-mm). The rammer shall be replaced shall have the shape of a sector of a circle of radius equal to
2.90 6 0.02-in. (73.7 6 0.5-mm). The rammer shall operate in
such a manner that the vertex of the sector is positioned at the
center of the specimen.
6.3 Sample Extruder (optional)—A jack, frame or other
device adapted for the purpose of extruding compacted speci-
mens from the mold.
6.4 Balance—A class GP5 balance meeting the require-
ments of Specification D 4753 for a balance of 1-g readability.
6.5 Drying Oven—Thermostatically controlled, preferably
of a forced-draft type and capable of maintaining a uniform
temperature of 230 6 9°F (110 6 5°C) throughout the drying
chamber.
6.6 Straightedge—A stiff metal straightedge of any conve-
nient length but not less than 10-in. (254-mm). The total length
FIG. 1 4.0-in. Cylindrical Mold of the straightedge shall be machined straight to a tolerance of
3
 D 698
60.005-in. (60.1-mm). The scraping edge shall be beveled if soil indicates that results will be altered by air drying, use the
it is thicker than 1⁄8-in. (3-mm). moist preparation method (see 10.2).
6.7 Sieves—3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm), 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm), and No. 4 10.1.3 Prepare the soil specimens for testing in accordance
(4.75-mm), conforming to the requirements of Specification with 10.2 (preferred) or with 10.3.
E 11. 10.2 Moist Preparation Method (preferred)—Without pre-
6.8 Mixing Tools—Miscellaneous tools such as mixing pan, viously drying the sample, pass it through a No. 4 (4.75-mm),
spoon, trowel, spatula, etc., or a suitable mechanical device for 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm), or 3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm) sieve, depending on the

thoroughly mixing the sample of soil with increments of water. procedure (A, B, or C) being used. Determine the water content
of the processed soil.
7. Calibration 10.2.1 Prepare at least four (preferably five) specimens
7.1 Perform calibrations before initial use, after repairs or having water contents such that they bracket the estimated
other occurrences that might affect the test results, at intervals optimum water content. A specimen having a water content
not exceeding 1,000 test specimens, or annually, whichever close to optimum should be prepared first by trial additions of
occurs first, for the following apparatus: water and mixing (see Note 6). Select water contents for the
7.1.1 Balance—Evaluate in accordance with Specification rest of the specimens to provide at least two specimens wet and
D 4753. two specimens dry of optimum, and water contents varying by
7.1.2 Molds—Determine the volume as described in Annex about 2 %. At least two water contents are necessary on the wet
A1. and dry side of optimum to accurately define the dry unit
7.1.3 Manual Rammer—Verify the free fall distance, ram- weight compaction curve (see 10.5). Some soils with very high
mer mass, and rammer face in accordance with Section 6.2. optimum water content or a relatively flat compaction curve
Verify the guide sleeve requirements in accordance with may require larger water content increments to obtain a well
Section 6.2.1. defined maximum dry unit weight. Water content increments
7.1.4 Mechanical Rammer—Calibrate and adjust the me- should not exceed 4 %.
chanical rammer in accordance with Test Methods D 2168. In
NOTE 6—With practice it is usually possible to visually judge a point
addition, the clearance between the rammer and the inside near optimum water content. Typically, soil at optimum water content can
surface of the mold shall be verified in accordance with 6.2.2. be squeezed into a lump that sticks together when hand pressure is
released, but will break cleanly into two sections when “bent”. At water
8. Test Sample contents dry of optimum soils tend to crumble; wet of optimum soils tend
8.1 The required sample mass for Procedures A and B is to stick together in a sticky cohesive mass. Optimum water content is
approximately 35-lbm (16-kg), and for Procedure C is approxi- typically slightly less than the plastic limit.
mately 65-lbm (29-kg) of dry soil. Therefore, the field sample 10.2.2 Use approximately 5-lbm (2.3-kg) of the sieved soil
should have a moist mass of at least 50-lbm (23-kg) and for each specimen to be compacted using Procedure A or B, or
100-lbm (45-kg), respectively. 13-lbm (5.9-kg) using Procedure C. To obtain the specimen
8.2 Determine the percentage of material retained on the water contents selected in 10.2.1, add or remove the required
No. 4 (4.75-mm), 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm), or 3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm) sieve as amounts of water as follows: to add water, spray it into the soil
appropriate for choosing Procedure A, B, or C. Make this during mixing; to remove water, allow the soil to dry in air at
determination by separating out a representative portion from ambient temperature or in a drying apparatus such that the
the total sample and determining the percentages passing the temperature of the sample does not exceed 140°F (60°C). Mix
sieves of interest by Test Methods D 422 or Method C 136. It the soil frequently during drying to maintain an even water
is only necessary to calculate percentages for the sieve or content distribution. Thoroughly mix each specimen to ensure
sieves for which information is desired. even distribution of water throughout and then place in a
separate covered container and allow to stand in accordance
9. Preparation of Apparatus with Table 1 prior to compaction. For the purpose of selecting
9.1 Select the proper compaction mold in accordance with a standing time, the soil may be classified using Test Method
the procedure (A, B, or C) being used. Determine and record its D 2487, Practice D 2488 or data on other samples from the
mass to the nearest gram. Assemble the mold, base and same material source. For referee testing, classification shall be
extension collar. Check the alignment of the inner wall of the by Test Method D 2487.
mold and mold extension collar. Adjust if necessary. 10.3 Dry Preparation Method—If the sample is too damp to
9.2 Check that the rammer assembly is in good working be friable, reduce the water content by air drying until the
condition and that parts are not loose or worn. Make any material is friable. Drying may be in air or by the use of drying
necessary adjustments or repairs. If adjustments or repairs are apparatus such that the temperature of the sample does not
made, the rammer must be recalibrated. exceed 140°F (60°C). Thoroughly break up the aggregations in
such a manner as to avoid breaking individual particles. Pass
10. Procedure
10.1 Soils: TABLE 1 Required Standing Times of Moisturized Specimens
10.1.1 Do not reuse soil that has been previously laboratory Classification Minimum Standing Time, h
compacted. GW, GP, SW, SP No Requirement
10.1.2 When using this test method for soils containing GM, SM 3
All other soils 16
hydrated halloysite, or where past experience with a particular
4
 D 698
TABLE 2 Metric Equivalents for Figs. 1 and 2 compacted layer slighly extends into the collar, but does not
in. mm exceed 1⁄4-in. (6-mm) above the top of the mold. If the third
0.016 0.41 layer does extend above the top of the mold by more than 1⁄4-in.
0.026 0.66 (6-mm), the specimen shall be discarded. The specimen shall
0.032 0.81
0.028 0.71
be discarded when the last blow on the rammer for the third
1⁄2 12.70 layer results in the bottom of the rammer extending below the
21⁄2 63.50 top of the compaction mold.
25⁄8 66.70
4 101.60
10.4.4 Compact each layer with 25 blows for the 4-in.
41⁄2 114.30 (101.6-mm) mold or with 56 blows for the 6-in. (152.4-mm)
4.584 116.43 mold.
43⁄4 120.60
6 152.40 NOTE 7—When compacting specimens wetter than optimum water
61⁄2 165.10 content, uneven compacted surfaces can occur and operator judgement is
65⁄8 168.30
63⁄4 171.40
required as to the average height of the specimen.
81⁄4 209.60
10.4.5 In operating the manual rammer, take care to avoid
ft3 cm3 lifting the guide sleeve during the rammer upstroke. Hold the
1⁄30 (0.0333) 943 guide sleeve steady and within 5° of vertical. Apply the blows
0.0005 14
(0.0750) 2,124
at a uniform rate of approximately 25 blows/min and in such a
0.0011 31 manner as to provide complete, uniform coverage of the
specimen surface.
10.4.6 Following compaction of the last layer, remove the
the material through the appropriate sieve: No. 4 (4.75-mm), collar and base plate from the mold, except as noted in 10.4.7.
3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm), or 3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm). When preparing the A knife may be used to trim the soil adjacent to the collar to
material by passing over the 3⁄4-in. sieve for compaction in the loosen the soil from the collar before removal to avoid
6-in. mold, break up aggregations sufficiently to at least pass disrupting the soil below the top of the mold.
the 3⁄8-in. sieve in order to facilitate the distribution of water 10.4.7 Carefully trim the compacted specimen even with the
throughout the soil in later mixing. top of the mold by means of the straightedge scraped across the
10.3.1 Prepare at least four (preferably five) specimens in top of the mold to form a plane surface even with the top of the
accordance with 10.2.1. mold. Initial trimming of the specimen above the top of the
10.3.2 Use approximately 5-lbm (2.3-kg) of the sieved soil mold with a knife may prevent the soil from tearing below the
for each specimen to be compacted using Procedure A or B, or top of the mold. Fill any holes in the top surface with unused
13-lbm (5.9-kg) using Procedure C. Add the required amounts or trimmed soil from the specimen, press in with the fingers,
of water to bring the water contents of the specimens to the and again scrape the straightedge across the top of the mold.
values selected in 10.3.1. Follow the specimen preparation Repeat the appropriate preceding operations on the bottom of
procedure specified in 10.2.2 for drying the soil or adding the specimen when the mold volume was determined without
water into the soil and curing each test specimen. the base plate. For very wet or dry soils, soil or water may be
10.4 Compaction—After curing, if required, each specimen lost if the base plate is removed. For these situations, leave the
shall be compacted as follows: base plate attached to the mold. When the base plate is left
10.4.1 Determine and record the mass of the mold or mold attached, the volume of the mold must be calibrated with the
and base plate. base plate attached to the mold rather than a plastic or glass
10.4.2 Assemble and secure the mold and collar to the base plate as noted in Annex A1, A1.4.
plate. The mold shall rest on a uniform rigid foundation, such 10.4.8 Determine and record the mass of the specimen and
as provided by a cylinder or cube of concrete with a mass of mold to the nearest gram. When the base plate is left attached,
not less than 200-lbm (91-kg). Secure the base plate to the rigid determine and record the mass of the specimen, mold and base
foundation. The method of attachment to the rigid foundation plate to the nearest gram.
shall allow easy removal of the assembled mold, collar and 10.4.9 Remove the material from the mold. Obtain a speci-
base plate after compaction is completed. men for water content by using either the whole specimen
10.4.3 Compact the specimen in three layers. After compac- (preferred method) or a representative portion. When the entire
tion, each layer should be approximately equal in thickness. specimen is used, break it up to facilitate drying. Otherwise,
Prior to compaction, place the loose soil into the mold and obtain a portion by slicing the compacted specimen axially
spread into a layer of uniform thickness. Lightly tamp the soil through the center and removing about 500-g of material from
prior to compaction until it is not in a fluffy or loose state, using the cut faces. Obtain the water content in accordance with Test
either the manual compaction rammer or a 2-in. (5-mm) Method D 2216.
diameter cylinder. Following compaction of each of the first 10.5 Following compaction of the last specimen, compare
two layers, any soil adjacent to the mold walls that has not been the wet unit weights to ensure that a desired pattern of
compacted or extends above the compacted surface shall be obtaining data on each side of the optimum water content will
trimmed. The trimmed soil may be included with the additional be attained for the dry unit weight compaction curve. Plotting
soil for the next layer. A knife or other suitable device may be the wet unit weight and water content of each compacted
used. The total amount of soil used shall be such that the third specimen can be an aid in making the above evaluation. If the
5
 D 698
desired pattern is not obtained, additional compacted speci- 11.4 Dry Unit Weights—Calculate the moist density (Eq 1),
mens will be required. Generally, one water content value wet the dry density (Eq 2), and then the dry unit weight (Eq 3) as
of the water content defining the maximum wet unit weight is follows:
sufficient to ensure data on the wet side of optimum water ~Mt 2 Mmd!
content for the maximum dry unit weight. rm 5 1000 V (1)

11. Calculation where:

11.1 Calculate the dry unit weight and water content of each rm 5 moist density of compacted specimen, Mg/m3,
compacted specimen as explained in 11.3 and 11.4. Plot the Mt 5 mass of moist specimen and mold, kg,
values and draw the compaction curve as a smooth curve Mmd 5 mass of compaction mold, kg, and
through the points (see example, Fig. 3). Plot dry unit weight V 5 volume of compaction mold, m3(see Annex A1)
to the nearest 0.1 lbf/ft3 (0.2 kN/m3) and water content to the rd 5 rm/~1 1 w/100! (2)
nearest 0.1 %. From the compaction curve, determine the
optimum water content and maximum dry unit weight. If more where:
than 5 % by weight of oversize material was removed from the rd 5 dry density of compacted specimen, Mg/m3, and
sample, calculate the corrected optimum water content and w 5 water content,% .
maximum dry unit weight of the total material using Practice gd 5 62.43 rd in lbf/ft3 (3)
D 4718. This correction may be made to the appropriate field in or
place density test specimen rather than to the laboratory test gd 5 9.807 rd in kN/m3 (4)
specimen.
11.2 Plot the 100 % saturation curve. Values of water where:
content for the condition of 100 % saturation can be calculated gd 5 dry unit weight of compacted specimen.
as explained in 11.5 (see example, Fig. 3). 11.5 To calculate points for plotting the 100 % saturation
curve or zero air voids curve select values of dry unit weight,
NOTE 8—The 100 % saturation curve is an aid in drawing the compac-
tion curve. For soils containing more than approximately 10 % fines at calculate corresponding values of water content corresponding
water contents well above optimum, the two curves generally become to the condition of 100 % saturation as follows:
roughly parallel with the wet side of the compaction curve between 92 % ~gw!~Gs! 2 gd
to 95 % saturation. Theoretically, the compaction curve cannot plot to the wsat 3 100 (5)
~gd!~Gs!
right of the 100 % saturation curve. If it does, there is an error in specific
gravity, in measurements, in calculations, in test procedures, or in plotting. where:
NOTE 9—The 100 % saturation curve is sometimes referred to as the wsat 5 water content for complete saturation, %,
zero air voids curve or the complete saturation curve. gw 5 unit weight of water, 62.43 lbf/ft3 (9.807 kn/m3),
11.3 Water Content, w—Calculate in accordance with Test gd 5 dry unit weight of soil, and
Method D 2216. Gs 5 specific gravity of soil.
NOTE 10—Specific gravity may be estimated for the test specimen on
the basis of test data from other samples of the same soil classification and
source. Otherwise, a specific gravity test (Test Method C 127, Test Method
D 854, or both) is necessary.

12. Report
12.1 The report shall contain the following information:
12.1.1 Procedure used (A, B, or C).
12.1.2 Preparation method used (moist or dry).
12.1.3 As received water content if determined.
12.1.4 Standard optimum water content, to the nearest
0.5 %.
12.1.5 Standard maximum dry unit weight, to the nearest
0.5 lbf/ft3.
12.1.6 Description of rammer (manual or mechanical).
12.1.7 Soil sieve data when applicable for determination of
procedure (A, B, or C) used.
12.1.8 Description of material used in test, by Practice
D 2488, or classification by Test Method D 2487.
12.1.9 Specific gravity and method of determination.
12.1.10 Origin of material used in test, for example, project,
location, depth, and the like.
12.1.11 Compaction curve plot showing compaction points
FIG. 3 Example Compaction Curve Plotting used to establish compaction curve, and 100 % saturation
6
 D 698
curve, point of maximum dry unit weight and optimum water because there is no other method of determining the values of
content. standard maximum dry unit weight and optimum water
12.1.12 Oversize correction data if used, including the content.
oversize fraction (coarse fraction), Pc in %.
14. Keywords
13. Precision and Bias
13.1 Precision—Data are being evaluated to determine the 14.1 NT—impact compaction using standard effort; RT—
precision of this test method. In addition, pertinent data is density; RT—moisture-density curves; RT—proctor test; UF—
being solicited from users of the test method. compaction characteristics; UF—soil compaction; USE—
13.2 Bias—It is not possible to obtain information on bias laboratory tests

ANNEX

(Mandatory Information)

A1. VOLUME OF COMPACTION MOLD

A1.1 Scope or glass plate determine the mass of the mold, base plate and a
A1.1.1 This annex describes the procedure for determining single plastic or glass plate to be used on top of the mold to the
the volume of a compaction mold. nearest 0.01-lbm (1-g) and record.
A1.1.2 The volume is determined by a water-filled method A1.4.1.3 Place the mold and the bottom plastic or glass
and checked by a linear-measurement method. plate on a firm, level surface and fill the mold with water to
slightly above its rim.
A1.2 Apparatus A1.4.1.4 Slide the second plate over the top surface of the
A1.2.1 In addition to the apparatus listed in Section 6 the mold so that the mold remains completely filled with water and
following items are required: air bubbles are not entrapped. Add or remove water as
A1.2.1.1 Vernier or Dial Caliper—having a measuring necessary with a bulb syringe.
range of at least 0 to 6 in. (0 to 150 mm) and readable to at least A1.4.1.5 Completely dry any excess water from the outside
0.001 in. (0.02 mm). of the mold and plates.
A1.2.1.2 Inside Micrometer—having a measuring range of A1.4.1.6 Determine the mass of the mold, plates and water
at least 2 to 12 in. (50 to 300 mm) and readable to at least 0.001 and record to the nearest 0.01-lbm (1-g).
in. (0.02 mm). A1.4.1.7 Determine the temperature of the water in the
A1.2.1.3 Plastic or Glass Plates—Two plastic or glass mold to the nearest 1°C and record. Determine and record the
plates approximately 8 in. square by 1⁄4 in. thick (200 by 200 absolute density of water from Table A1.1.
mm by 6 mm). A1.4.1.8 Calculate the mass of water in the mold by
A1.2.1.4 Thermometer—0 to 50°C range, 0.5°C subtracting the mass determined in A1.4.1.2 from the mass
graduations, conforming to the requirements of Specification determined in A1.4.1.6.
E 1. A1.4.1.9 Calculate the volume of water by dividing the
A1.2.1.5 Stopcock grease or similar sealant. mass of water by the density of water and record to the nearest
A1.2.1.6 Miscellaneous equipment—Bulb syringe, towels, 0.0001 ft3 (1 cm3).
etc. A1.4.1.10 When the base plate is used for the calibration of
the mold volume repeat A1.4.1.3-A1.4.1.9.
A1.3 Precautions A1.4.2 Linear Measurement Method:
A1.3.1 Perform this procedure in an area isolated from A1.4.2.1 Using either the vernier caliper or the inside
drafts or extreme temperature fluctuations. micrometer, measure the diameter of the mold 6 times at the

A1.4 Procedure TABLE A1.1 Density of WaterA

A1.4.1 Water-Filling Method: Temperature, °C (°F) Density of Water, g/ml
A1.4.1.1 Lightly grease the bottom of the compaction mold 18 (64.4) 0.99862
and place it on one of the plastic or glass plates. Lightly grease 19 (66.2) 0.99843
20 (68.0) 0.99823
the top of the mold. Be careful not to get grease on the inside 21 (69.8) 0.99802
of the mold. If it is necessary to use the base plate, as noted in 22 (71.6) 0.99779
10.4.7, place the greased mold onto the base plate and secure 23 (73.4) 0.99756
24 (75.2) 0.99733
with the locking studs. 25 (77.0) 0.99707
A1.4.1.2 Determine the mass of the greased mold and both 26 (78.8) 0.99681
plastic or glass plates to the nearest 0.01-lbm (1-g) and record. A
Values other than shown may be obtained by referring to the Handbook of
When the base plate is being used in lieu of the bottom plastic Chemistry and Physics, Chemical Rubber Publishing Co., Cleveland, Ohio.

7
 D 698
top of the mold and 6 times at the bottom of the mold, spacing h 5 average height, in. (mm),
each of the six top and bottom measurements equally around dt 5 average top diameter, in. (mm),
the circumference of the mold. Record the values to the nearest db 5 average bottom diameter, in. (mm),
0.001-in. (0.02-mm). 1⁄1728 5 constant to convert in3 to ft3, and
1⁄103 5 constant to convert mm3 to cm3.
A1.4.2.2 Using the vernier caliper, measure the inside
height of the mold by making three measurements equally
spaced around the circumference of the mold. Record values to A1.5 Comparison of Results
the nearest 0.001-in. (0.02-mm). A1.5.1 The volume obtained by either method should be
A1.4.2.3 Calculate the average top diameter, average within the volume tolerance requirements of 6.1.1 and 6.1.2.
bottom diameter and average height. A1.5.2 The difference between the two methods should not
A1.4.2.4 Calculate the volume of the mold and record to the exceed 0.5 % of the nominal volume of the mold.
nearest 0.0001 ft3 (1 cm3) as follows:
A1.5.3 Repeat the determination of volume if these criteria
~p!~h!~dt 1 db!2 are not met.
V5 ~inch2pound! (A1.1)
~16!~1728! A1.5.4 Failure to obtain satisfactory agreement between the
~p!~h!~dt 1 db!2 two methods, even after several trials, is an indication that the
V5 ~SI! (A1.2) mold is badly deformed and should be replaced.
~16!~103!
A1.5.5 Use the volume of the mold determined using the
where: water-filling method as the assigned volume value for
V 5 volume of mold, ft3 (cm3), calculating the moist and dry density (see 11.4).

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