5.1 This test method can be used to determine the moisture content, ash content, and percent organic matter in soil.

5.2 The percent organic matter is important in the following: (1) classifying peat or other organic soil, (2) geotechnical and general classification purposes, and (3) when peats are being evaluated as a fuel.

1.1 These test methods cover the measurement of moisture content, ash content, and organic matter in peats and other organic soils, such as organic clays, silts, and mucks. Test Method D2216 provides an alternative method for determining moisture content in mineral soils and rock.

1.1.1 Test Method A—Moisture is determined by drying peat or organic sample at 110 ± 5°C.

1.1.2 Test Method B—Alternative moisture method which removes the total moisture in two steps: (1) evaporation of moisture at room temperature, (2) subsequent oven drying of air dried sample at 110 ± 5°C. This method is used when the peat is to be used as fuel.

1.1.3 Test Method C—Ash content of a peat or organic soil sample, for general purposes, is determined by igniting oven dried sample from moisture content determination in a furnace at 440 ± 40°C.

1.1.4 Test Method D—Ash content of a peat or organic soil sample, for materials used for fuel, is determined by igniting oven dried sample from moisture content determination in a furnace at 750 ± 38°C.

1.2 Test Method A should be used for general classification, except for use of the peat as a fuel. Test Method B should be used when peats are being evaluated for use as a fuel

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. Use Practice D6026 for determining significant digits to report.

1.4 This 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.

1.5 This test method offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this test method may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved though the ASTM consensus process.