This test method measures the air spaces of peat and the moisture-holding capacity on either a mass and/or a volume basis under conditions of saturation. If large spaces are present, water and air can penetrate easily. If spaces are smaller, the water holding capacity is increased. Water holding capacity is larger in humified peat materials (small inter-particulate spaces), whereas water and air-penetration is larger in unhumified peat (larger inter-particulate spaces). The spaces can also be aan indication of the oxygen available to the plant roots.

The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D 3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D 3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D 3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.

1.1 This test method was designed to evaluate the aeration, water penetration, and water retention properties of peat under field conditions of water saturation.

1.2 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.