This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: D7698 − 21

Standard Test Method for

In-Place Estimation of Density and Water Content of Soil
and Aggregate by Correlation with Complex Impedance
Method1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D7698; 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 (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope* mathematical conversions which are provided for information

purposes only and are not considered standard.
1.1 Purpose and Application—This test method describes
the procedure, equipment, and interpretation methods for 1.2.1 All observed and calculated values shall conform to
estimating in-place soil dry density and water content using a the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in
Complex-Impedance Measuring Instrument (CIMI). Practice D6026 unless superseded by this standard.
1.1.1 The purpose and application of this test method is for 1.3 Generalized Theory:
testing porous material such as used in roadway base or 1.3.1 Two key electrical properties of soil are conductivity
building foundations that may be deployed in the field at and relative dielectric permittivity which are manifested as a
various test sites. The test apparatus includes electrodes that value of complex-impedance that can be determined.
contact the porous material under test and a sensor unit that
1.3.2 The soil conductivity contributes primarily to the real
iTeh Standards
supplies electromagnetic signals to the porous material. Re-
sponse signals reveal electrical parameters such as complex
component of the complex-impedance, and the soil relative
dielectric permittivity contributes primarily to the imaginary
impedance which can be equated to material properties such as
density and moisture content. (https://standards.iteh.ai)
1.1.2 CIMI measurements as described in this test method
component of the complex-impedance.
1.3.3 The complex-impedance of soil can be determined by

Document Preview
placing two electrodes in the soil to be tested at a known
are applicable to measurements of compacted soils intended for
distance apart and a known depth. The application of a known
roads and foundations.
frequency of alternating current to the electrodes enables a
1.1.3 This test method describes the procedure for estimat- measurement of current through the soil, voltage across the
ing in-place density and water content of soilsASTM and soil- D7698-21
electrodes, and the electrical phase difference between the
aggregates by use of a CIMI. The electrical properties of the
https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/sist/8becb031-e569-4a61-a3fa-38b4a6db9602/astm-d7698-21
soil are measured using a radio frequency (RF) voltage source
voltage and current. Complex-impedance is calculated from
these known and measured parameters.
connected to soil electrical probes driven into the soils and
1.3.4 From the determined complex-impedance, an electri-
soil-aggregates to be tested, in a prescribed pattern and depth.
cal network consisting of a resistor (R) and capacitor (C)
Certain algorithms of these properties are related to wet density
connected in parallel are used to represent a model of the soil
and water content. This correlation between electrical
being tested.
measurements, and density and water content is accomplished
using a calibration methodology. In the calibration 1.3.5 Relationships can be made between the soil wet
methodology, density and water content are determined by density and the magnitude of the complex-impedance, and also
other ASTM Test Standards that measure soil density and water between the soil water mass per unit measured, and the
content, thereafter correlating the corresponding measured quotient of the values of C and R using a Soil Model process.
electrical properties to the soil physical properties. 1.3.6 The Soil Model process results in mathematical rela-
tionships between the physical and electrical characteristics of
1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded the soil which are used for soil-specific calibration of the CIMI.
as standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are
1.3.7 Refer to Appendix X1 for a more detailed explanation
of complex-impedance measurement of in-place soil, and its
use in field measurements for the estimation of dry density and
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and water content.
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.08 on Special and
Construction Control Tests. 1.4 Precautions:
Current edition approved May 1, 2021. Published May 2021. Originally
approved in 2011. Last previous edition approved in 2020 as D7698–20. DOI: 1.4.1 The low-level RF output power levels of the CIMI
10.1520/D7698-21. method are harmless.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

1
 D7698 − 21
1.4.2 The SI units presented for apparatus are substitutions 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
of the inch-pound units, other similar SI units should be 3.2.1 complex impedance, n—the ratio of the phasor equiva-
acceptable providing they meet the technical requirements lent of a steady-state sine-wave or voltage like quantity
established by the inch-pound apparatus. (driving force) to the phasor equivalent of a steady-state
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the sine-wave current of current like quantity (response).3
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. There are no 3.2.2 relative permittivity, n—the permittivity of the mate-
known hazards associated with this standard. It is the respon- rial relative to that of free space.4
sibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate 3.2.3 phase relationship, n—the electrical phase difference
safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the between the applied probe-to-probe RF voltage, and the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. resulting soil current.
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
3.2.4 probe-to-probe RF voltage, n—the peak value of RF
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
voltage measured across two probes that are conducting soil
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
current.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical 3.2.5 soil capacitance, n—the value of the capacitor in an
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. equivalent parallel resistor-capacitor circuit that results from
the probe-to-probe RF voltage, current in the soil, and resulting
2. Referenced Documents phase relationship due to the application of a RF voltage source
2.1 ASTM Standards: 2 applied to the probes.
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained 3.2.6 soil current, n—the peak value of the RF current
Fluids passing through the soil from one probe electrode to another.
D698 Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Character- 3.2.7 Soil Model, n—the result of a calibration procedure
istics of Soil Using Standard Effort (12,400 ft-lbf/ft3 (600 that establishes a correlating linear function between measured
kN-m/m3)) electrical soil properties and measured physical soil properties.

iTeh Standards
D1556 Test Method for Density and Unit Weight of Soil in 3.2.8 Soil Model linear correlation function, n—one of the
Place by Sand-Cone Method two mathematical expressions that are derived from perform-
D1557 Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Character-
(https://standards.iteh.ai)
ing linear regressions on two sets of soil test data; measured
istics of Soil Using Modified Effort (56,000 ft-lbf/ft3 physical soil characteristics, and a corresponding set of elec-
3
(2,700 kN-m/m )) trical measurements made on the soil samples.
Document Preview
D2216 Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water
(Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies
3.2.9 soil resistance, n—the value of the resistor in an
equivalent parallel resistor-capacitor circuit that results from
Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as the probe-to-probe RF voltage, soil current, and resulting phase
Used in Engineering Design and Construction ASTM D7698-21
relationship due to the application of a RF source applied to the
probes.
https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/sist/8becb031-e569-4a61-a3fa-38b4a6db9602/astm-d7698-21
D4253 Test Methods for Maximum Index Density and Unit
Weight of Soils Using a Vibratory Table 4. Summary of the Test Method
D4643 Test Method for Determination of Water Content of
4.1 The test method is a two-step process.
Soil and Rock by Microwave Oven Heating
4.1.1 A Soil Model that relates impedance measurement to
D4718 Practice for Correction of Unit Weight and Water
the density and water content of the soil is developed. In this
Content for Soils Containing Oversize Particles
step the electrical measurements are collected at locations that
D4944 Test Method for Field Determination of Water (Mois-
have various water contents and densities typical of the range
ture) Content of Soil by the Calcium Carbide Gas Pressure
to be expected. Concurrent with collecting the electrical data,
Tester
determination of density and water content are performed at the
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical
same locations using one or more of the traditional test
Data
methods, such as Test Methods D1556 and D2216. The process
D7382 Test Methods for Determination of Maximum Dry
is repeated over the site such that a range of water contents and
Unit Weight of Granular Soils Using a Vibrating Hammer
densities are obtained. The combined data (impedance and
E691 Practice for Conducting an Interlaboratory Study to
density/water content) will generate the correlating linear
Determine the Precision of a Test Method
regression functions of the Soil Model.
3. Terminology 4.1.2 Once the Soil Model has been developed the CIMI
device is used to make electrical measurements of the soil at
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of common technical terms locations of unknown density and water content. Using the Soil
used in this standard, refer to Terminology D653. Model linear correlation functions, the procedure then esti-
mates the values of soil density and water content based on the
2
measured electrical properties.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
3
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Standards 100, 1972
4
the ASTM website. Sears & Zemansky, University Physics, 10th Edition

2
 D7698 − 21
5. Significance and Use probes and the soil being tested. Large air voids, relative to the
5.1 CIMI measurements as described in this Standard Test volume of material being tested, that may be present between
Method are applicable to measurements of compacted soils soil probes and the surface of the material being tested may
intended for roads and foundations. cause incorrect density measurements. The shape of the soil
electrical probe is important to the quality of the electrical
5.2 The test method is used for estimating in-place values of measurements collected by the CIMI.
density and water content of soils and soil-aggregates based on
6.3 When driving the measuring electrical probes, it is
electrical measurements.
critical to the accuracy of the measurement that they make a
5.3 The test method may be used for quality control and complete and tight contact with the soil over the entire conical
acceptance testing of compacted soil and soil aggregate mix- part of the probe.
tures as used in construction and also for research and
6.4 If the volume of soil material being tested as defined in
development. The minimal disturbance nature of the method-
X2.10 has oversize particles or large voids in the electrical
ology allows repetitive measurements in a single test location
field, this may cause errors in measurements of electrical
and statistical analysis of the results.
properties. Where lack of uniformity in the soil due to layering,
5.4 Limitations: aggregate or voids is suspected, the test site shall be excavated
5.4.1 This test method provides an overview of the CIMI and visually examined to determine if the test material is
measurement procedure using a controlling console connected representative of the in-situ material in general and if an
to a soil sensor unit which applies a 3.0 MHz RF voltage to an oversize correction is required in accordance with Practice
in-place soil via metallic probes that are driven into the soil at D4718. Soils must be homogeneous and practically free of
a prescribed distance apart. This test method does not discuss rocks that are in excess of five centimeters in diameter (2 in.)
the details of the CIMI electronics, computer, or software that and construction debris for the most accurate results.
utilize on-board algorithms for estimating the soil density and 6.5 Statistical variance may increase for soil material that is
water content significantly drier or wetter than optimum water content (2.5 %
5.4.2 It is difficult to address an infinite variety of soils in over optimum or 6.0 % below optimum) as determined using
iTeh Standards
this standard. However, data presented in X3.1 provides a list
of soil types that are applicable for the CIMI use.
5.4.3 The procedures used to specify how data are collected,
Test Methods D698 or D1557. Statistical variance may in-
crease for soil material that is compacted to less than 88 % of

(https://standards.iteh.ai)
the maximum dry density as determined using Test Methods
recorded, or calculated in this standard are regarded as the D698 or D1557. The CIMI is generally more accurate when the
industry standard. In addition, they are representative of the Soil Model range is broader than the range of soil density and
Document Preview
significant digits that generally should be retained. The proce-
dures prescribed in this standard do not consider material
water content being tested in the field.
6.6 If temperature measurements are not used, an error may
variation, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose
studies, or any considerations for the user’s objectives; it is be introduced in the results depending on the value of the
common practice to increase or reduce significant digits of ASTM D7698-21
difference between the temperature of the soil used for the Soil
Model and the unknown in-place soil being measured. All
https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/sist/8becb031-e569-4a61-a3fa-38b4a6db9602/astm-d7698-21
reported data to be commensurate with these considerations. It
is beyond the scope of this standard to consider significant electrical values are equilibrated to 15.5 °C (60 °F). The
digits used in analytical methods for engineering design. equilibration is necessary because the soil temperature affects
the electrical signals that are measured. The operating tempera-
NOTE 1—Notwithstanding the statements on precision and bias con- ture range where the CIMI has been used globally is for the
tained in this test method, the precision of this test method is dependent on CIMI is between 1.1 °C (34 °F) and 50 °C (122 °F).
the competence of the personnel performing it and the suitability of the
equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice 6.7 This test method applies only to non-frozen soil. The
D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective electrical properties of soil change considerably as soil tem-
testing. Users of this test method are cautioned that compliance with perature approaches the freezing point of the entrained water.
Practice D3740 does not in itself ensure reliable results. Reliable testing
depends on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating 6.8 The use of electrical probes with different length than
some of those factors. those used to make the Soil Model will introduce an error in the
5.5 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the interpretation of the data and the estimation of the density of
guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in water content of the tested soils.
Practice D6026, unless superseded by this test method. 6.9 The use of a Soil Model that was generated from a
different soil than that selected for unknown in-place measure-
6. Interferences ments will result in errors in the estimation of the density and
6.1 Anomalies in the test material with electrical impedance water content of the tested soils.
properties significantly different from construction soils and 6.10 Attempts to measure unknown in-place soils with a
aggregate evaluated during Soil Model development, such as Soil Model that was generated from a limited range of wet
metal objects or organic material, may affect the accuracy of density or water content values, or both, may result in density
the test method. and water content estimation errors.
6.2 The accuracy of the results obtained by this test method 6.11 Variation in pore water salinity, soil chemistry, soil
may be influenced by poor contact between the soil electrical mineralogy or other anomalies that causes field-test electronic

3
 D7698 − 21
measurements to be outside the soil model operational range construction material a shoulder is machined at the end of the
will cause the CIMI to report a warning message. X2.1 conical taper that is undercut. When the conical electrode is
contains additional information regarding variation in electrical driven in the compacted construction material to the level
measurements and CIMI management techniques. where the shoulder is level with the construction material
surface, a repeatable surface area of the electrode is in contact
7. Apparatus with the construction material. The soil electrode achieves
7.1 Complex-Impedance Measuring Instrument (See Fig. good contact with the compacted construction material and
1)—While exact details of construction of the apparatus and the allows for consistency in electrical measurements.
electric circuits therein may vary, the system shall consist of 7.2.1 The length of soil electrical probes can vary typically
the following: having embedment lengths between 102 mm (4 in.) and 31 mm
7.1.1 Soil Sensor Unit—The “Soil Sensor” is a component (1.2 in.). The bottom diameter of each soil electrical probe is 5
of the CIMI which electronically combines the RF voltage mm (0.2 in.). The top diameter of the embedded length of each
source and the three RF measurement devices. Cables are used soil electrical probe varies between 14 mm (0.56 in.) for the
to connect the Soil Sensor to the electrical probes. 102 mm (4 in.) embedded length probe and 32 mm (1.25 in.)
7.1.1.1 RF Source—Typically a 3 MHz RF voltage source is for the 305 mm (12 in.) embedded length probe. During the
applied to the soil under test by probe type electrodes driven testing procedure, the soil electrical probe length is selected to
into the in-place soil at a prescribed depth and spacing. It best match thickness of the compacted material. Since a
measures the RF voltage applied to the soil electrical probes portion of the probe must be above the surface to facilitate
and RF current drawn by the soil. Additionally, the electrical electrical clip connector, the desired embedment depth must be
phase relationship between the soil current and the probe-to- clearly indicated with a scribed mark or change in geometry.
probe RF voltage is determined. The drawing in Fig. 2 below shows the size and dimensions for
7.1.1.2 Ammeter—Means for measuring the RF soil current. the 152 mm (6 in.) electrical probe, the other electrical probes
7.1.1.3 Voltmeter—Means for measuring the probe-to-probe have similar shape and can be reviewed in the manufacturer’s
RF voltage. catalog.
7.1.1.4 Phase Difference Meter—Means for measuring the 7.3 A template shall be used to place the electrodes as they
RF soil current. iTeh Standards
phase difference between the probe-to-probe RF voltage and are driven into the soil. The four probes are driven into the soil
at the 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270° in clockwise positions around the
(https://standards.iteh.ai)
7.1.1.5 Connecting Cables—For connecting the soil electri-
cal probes to the display console meter (that is, ammeter,
voltmeter, and phase difference meter).
periphery of the template.
7.4 Thermistor temperature probe that connects to the CIMI
7.1.2 Display Console Unit
7.2 Soil Electrical
Document Preview
Probes (Four Required, Equally
for soil temperature measurement, and resulting compensation
of calculated electrical soil parameters.
Dimensioned)—Of electrical conducting material suitable for 7.5 Hand Tools—Hand tools for driving and retrieving the
ASTM
driving into compacted material, typically constructed of D7698-21
soil electrical probes. A 2.7-kg to 5.4-kg (6-lb to 12-lb) dead
blow or brass-faced hammer is used to avoid damaging the
https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/sist/8becb031-e569-4a61-a3fa-38b4a6db9602/astm-d7698-21
common water hardened drill steel or stainless steel. The soil
steel probes. The soil electrical probes are removed from the
electrical probes have a conical shape designed to optimize the
contact between the electrode and the compacted construction soil that has been tested using 30.5 cm (12 in.) channel lock
material around the electrode as it is driven in. To further pliers.
control the contact area of the electrode with the compacted 7.6 Other components of the system are:

NOTE 1—The wires crossing in the diagram are not touching each other during use to prevent parasitic capacitance.
In the drawing the small probe is the thermistor and the three large probes are three of the four used to collect soil electrical data, the fourth probe
is not seen in the section drawing because it is directly behind the center probe.
FIG. 1 Diagram of a Complex Impedance Measuring Instrument in Use

4
 D7698 − 21

FIG. 2 Drawing of a 152.4 mm (6 in.) Soil Electrical Probe

7.6.1 Safety goggles, and iTeh Standards of different densities or water contents should be done the day

(https://standards.iteh.ai)
7.6.2 Software with which to download and process the before, so as to allow stabilization of the soil water content.
data.
8.7 A matrix of six (6) spots should be used during the
8. Calibration and Standardization
Document
8.1 For a soil type that has not yet been modeled, a Soil
Preview
calibration procedure, consisting of two different soil density
conditions and three (3) water content conditions that cover the
range that is expected to be measured. The three calibration
Model must be generated. Refer to Section 9 for details on how tests that evaluate high density soil will use test locations that
the testing is performed. ASTM D7698-21ideally will have soil conditions that are close to the maximum
https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/sist/8becb031-e569-4a61-a3fa-38b4a6db9602/astm-d7698-21
8.2 Determine the test method(s) that will be used in density as determined by Test Methods D1557 or an equivalent
conjunction with developing the Soil Model through calibra- method. The range in water content shall include low water
tion. For example, one or more of the test methods cited in 2.1. content, middle range water content, and high water content
Assemble the equipment required for each test method. that is near the optimum water content as determined by Test
8.3 Obtain a representative sample of soil from the site Methods D1557 and D2216 or equivalent test methods.
where in-place testing is conducted or from the borrow area 8.7.1 A four spot Soil Model matrix will result in the
planned as a source of material. The sample shall be of development of a Soil Model with an accuracy that will
sufficient amount of soil for at least five compaction typically be less than the six-spot matrixes, and a nine-spot soil
specimens, typically about 20 kg (44 lb). More material may be matrix will only slightly increase the accuracy of the Soil
required if ancillary testing is planned, such as Atterberg limits, Model over that of the six-spot Soil Model matrixes. The
particle size analysis, etc. four-spot Soil Model matrixes shall have variation of two
8.4 Determine the laboratory compaction characteristics of density conditions and two water content conditions, wherein
the material to be tested. Test Methods D698 or D1557 for fine the high density and high water content shall be performed in
grained soils and soil rock mixtures that exhibit a clear soil that is near the maximum density and optimum water
maximum dry density or Test Methods D4253 or D7382 for content as determined by Test Methods D1557 or an equivalent
predominately granular material. test method. The nine-spot Soil Model shall have variation of
8.5 Determine the depth of investigation required for the job three density conditions and three water contents, wherein the
and select the electrical probes with length equal to the depth high density-high water content shall be performed in soil that
of investigation. These same length probes must be used for is near the maximum density and optimum water content as
both creating the Soil Model and for testing at the Job Site. determined by Test Methods D1557 or an equivalent test
method.
8.6 Select areas on the Job Site where the type of soil is
consistent from place to place, and where there are differences 8.8 Be sure the spot does not contain large rocks or
in water content and compaction. Special preparation of spots construction debris, and level the surface before testing.

5
 D7698 − 21
8.9 Drive a large nail or small screwdriver into the soil near 9.9 Observe and record dry density, water content, and
the test spot and insert the temperature probe at least 8 cm (3 percent compaction.
in.).
9.10 Record latitude and longitude of the testing site, if
8.10 Perform electrical tests with the CIMI on the selected required.
Soil Model spots as prescribed in 9.4 – 9.7. Determine in-place
9.11 Download to the data analysis software as required.
wet density with physical means, such as Test Methods D1556,
or an equivalent test method. Remove soil samples from the
10. Calculation or Interpretation of Results
spot tested and perform an oven-dry moisture test as specified
in Test Method D4643, Test Method D4944, or an equivalent 10.1 Using the electrical measurements made at the Soil
test, to determine the water content. Model test spots, the electrical impedance is computed by the
quotient of the value of the RF voltage applied to the soil, and
8.11 Enter these physical data into the CIMI Console to
the resulting RF current through the soil.
associate them with the earlier electrical readings. The console
will have the capability to perform an error analysis on the V
Z5 (1)
resulting Soil Model. I

where:
9. Procedure
Z = Impedance,
9.1 Before testing a Job Site, the Soil Model for the soil type V = RF Voltage, and
to be tested must be associated with that site, using the I = RF Current.
appropriate menu on the console display. 10.2 The impedance and the current over the resistance
9.2 Prepare the test spots by leveling the surface, and (C/R) ratio are both temperature compensated using an empiri-
checking for foreign debris, such as metal scraps or asphalt. cally determined procedure. The data presented in Appendix
X3. COMPLEX IMPEDANCE MEASURING INSTRU-
9.3 Drive a large nail or small screwdriver into the soil near
MENT TEST DATA shows the CIMI performance over a broad

iTeh Standards
the test spot and insert the temperature probe at least half the
range of soil types with temperature variations between 6.1 °C
length of the probe into the ground.
(43 °F) and 43.3 °C (110 °F). The electrical data was adjusted

(https://standards.iteh.ai)
9.4 Using the template, drive the 4 electrical probes into the using the CIMI empirically determined temperature compen-
spot so they are solid in place and driven to the proper depth. sation procedure and the reported physical results for the
Soil probes must enter the soil as perpendicular to the soil material density and water content include the temperature
Document Preview
surface as possible and not more than 20° from perpendicular
to the surface of the soil under test. The soil probes shall be
compensation. The CIMI data from the 230 tests within nine
soil types was compared to the nuclear density gauge. The
driven to the full depth of the conical section of each probe. If histograms of the data for both material density and water
rocks are encountered during the process of drivingASTM the probes content is presented in APPENDIX 3. The data summary
D7698-21
into the ground that result in refusal or deviation of greater than information in APPENDIX 3 is from the Committee D18 on
https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/sist/8becb031-e569-4a61-a3fa-38b4a6db9602/astm-d7698-21
20°, then the operator shall abandon the test site and move to Soil and Rock Subcommittee on Surface and Subsurface
another location that is close by. Characterization, Research Report D18-1019, February 1,
2011.
9.5 Place the Soil Sensor (pins up) in the center of the
template and connect the cables to two of the probes that are 10.3 A Linear Regression Analysis is performed with the
diametrically opposite. The cables must be away from each physically determined wet density obtained in the Soil Model
other and run straight to the probes. If a probe is loosened when process, and the calculated and temperature-compensated im-
attaching the cable, tap it with the hammer to seat it solidly. pedance. Fig. 3 shows a graphical representation of the linear
regression that relates the soil impedance to the estimated soil
9.6 Turn on the Console and create or select the Job Site to
wet density.
be tested.
10.4 A parallel-circuit combination of a resistor (R) and
9.7 Perform the test in accordance with the CIMI instruction
capacitor (C) can be used to express the equivalent electrical
manual for the collection of the electrical data with the four
characteristics of soil. These values are calculated by solving
electrical probes as outlined in the procedural instructions for
simultaneous electrical equations using RF voltage, RF current,
the CIMI. The test will include measurement from both sets of
and RF phase.
electrical probes, wherein a set of the probes are across from
each other. 10.5 A Linear Regression Analysis is performed using the
physically determined water mass per unit volume obtained in
9.8 The CIMI Console uses the material unique correlation
the Soil Model Process, and the temperature compensated ratio
that was developed in the Soil Model process between the
C/R. Fig. 4 shows a graphical representation of the linear
material’s physical properties and the electrically measured soil
regression that relates the ratio of the capacitance over the
properties. During a field test procedure, the CIMI is used to
resistance to the calculated water content.
measure the electrical material properties and then calculates
the dry density, water content, and percent compaction. Then, 10.6 When testing an unknown in-place soil type, the
the physical properties are automatically displayed. electrical measurements are used first to calculate impedance,

6
 D7698 − 21

iTeh Standards
FIG. 3 Typical Values of Wet Density Vs. Impedance (Regression Equation Upper Right)
The data points are electrical measured values (X axis) that are used to derive the Wet Density (Y axis).

(https://standards.iteh.ai)
Document
then to calculate C/R as was done in the Soil Model procedure. Preview
These factors are then temperature compensated.
10.11 The percent compaction is calculated by obtaining the
quotient of the measured dry density and the maximum dry
10.7 The wet density is calculated using the temperature- density, expressed as a percentage as determined by Test
ASTM
compensated impedance of the unknown in-place soil using theD7698-21
Methods D698 or D1557.
https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/sist/8becb031-e569-4a61-a3fa-38b4a6db9602/astm-d7698-21
appropriate regression equation that was determined in the Soil
% compaction 5 100
ρ dry
(4)
Model process. max ρ dry
10.8 The water mass per unit volume in kg/m3 [lb/ft3] in the where:
unknown in-place soil is also calculated with the temperature % compaction = soil relative compaction as related to the
compensated C/R, using the appropriate regression equation maximum dry density of the soil as deter-
developed in the Soil Model. mined by Test Methods D698 or D1557.
10.9 The dry density of the unknown in-place soil is
determined by taking the difference of the wet density and the 11. Report: Test Data Sheet(s), Form(s), and Final
water mass per unit volume as determined from the Soil Model Report(s)
regression equations. 11.1 The methodology used to specify how data are re-
ρ wet corded on the test data sheet(s)/form(s), as given below, is
ρ dry 5 (2) covered in 1.2.1 and in Practice D6026.
w
11
100 11.2 The Field Data Records shall include, as a minimum,
where: the following:
ρdry = dry density, 11.2.1 Test Number or Test Identification.
ρwet = wet density, and 11.2.2 Location of test (for example, Station number or
w = water content in %. Coordinates or other identifiable information).
11.2.3 Visual description of material tested.
10.10 The water content is calculated by obtaining the 11.2.4 Lift number or elevation or depth.
quotient of the water mass per unit volume and the dry density, 11.2.5 Name of the operator(s).
expressed as a percentage. 11.2.6 Make, model and serial number of the test gauge.
water mass per unit volume 11.2.7 Soil Model used.
w 5 100 (3)
ρ dry 11.2.8 Length of electrical probes used during testing.