Significance and Use
This test method assigns an empirical value to the relative amount, fineness, and character of claylike material present in the test specimen.
A minimum sand equivalent value may be specified to limit the permissible quantity of claylike fines in an aggregate.
This test method provides a rapid field method for determining changes in the quality of aggregates during production or placement.
Note 2—The quality of the results produced by this standard are dependant upon the competence of the personnel performing the procedure and the capability, calibration, and the maintenance of the equipment used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D 3666
Scope
1.1 This test method is intended to serve as a rapid field-correlation test. The purpose of this test method is to indicate, under standard conditions, the relative proportions of clay-like or plastic fines and dust in granular soils and fine aggregates that pass the 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve. The term “sand equivalent” expresses the concept that most granular soils and fine aggregates are mixtures of desirable coarse particles, sand, and generally undesirable clay or plastic fines and dust.
Note 1—Some agencies perform the test on material with a top size smaller than the 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve. This is done to avoid trapping the clay-like or plastic fines and dust below flaky shaped 4.75 to 2.36 mm (No. 4 to 8) sized particles. Testing smaller top sized material may lower the numerical results of the test.
1.2 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.2.1 Regarding sieves, per Specification E 11
1.3 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.
