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: D7928 − 21´1

Standard Test Method for

Particle-Size Distribution (Gradation) of Fine-Grained Soils
Using the Sedimentation (Hydrometer) Analysis1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D7928; 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.

ε1 NOTE—Summary of Changes section was editorially added in June 2021.

1. Scope* 1.5 The sedimentation analysis is based on the concept that

1.1 This test method covers the quantitative determination larger particles will fall through a fluid faster than smaller
of the distribution of particle sizes of the fine-grained portion particles. Stokes’ Law gives a governing equation used to
of soils. The sedimentation by hydrometer method is used to determine the terminal velocity of a spherical particle falling
determine the particle-size distribution (gradation) of the through a stationary liquid. The terminal velocity is propor-
material that is finer than the No. 200 (75-µm) sieve and larger tional to the square of the particle diameter. Therefore, particles
than about 0.2-µm. The test is performed on material passing are sorted by size in both time and position when settling in a
the No. 10 (2.0-mm) or finer sieve and the results are presented container of liquid.
as the mass percent finer of this fraction versus the log of the 1.5.1 Stokes’ Law has several assumptions which are: the
particle diameter. particles are spherical and smooth; there is no interference

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between the particles; there is no difference between the
1.2 This method can be used to evaluate the fine-grained current in the middle of the container and the sides; flow is
fraction of a soil with a wide range of particle sizes by laminar; and the particles have the same density. These
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combining the sedimentation results with results from a sieve
analysis using D6913 to obtain the complete gradation curve.
assumptions are applied to soil particles of various shapes and
sizes.

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The method can also be used when there are no coarse-grained
1.6 A hydrometer is used to measure the fluid density and
particles or when the gradation of the coarse-grained material
is not required or not needed. determine the quantity of particles in suspension at a specific
time and position. The density of the soil-water suspension
NOTE 1—The significant digits recorded in this test method preclude depends upon the concentration and specific gravity of the soil
obtaining the grain size distribution of materials that doASTM D7928-21e1
not contain a
particles and the amount of dispersant added. Each hydrometer
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significant amount of fines. For example, clean sands will not yield
detectable amounts of silt and clay sized particles, and therefore should measurement at an elapsed time is used to calculate the
not be tested with this method. The minimum amount of fines in the percentage of particles finer than the diameter given by Stokes’
sedimentation specimen is 15 g. Law. The series of readings provide the distribution of material
1.3 When combining the results of the sedimentation and mass as a function of particle size.
sieve tests, the procedure for obtaining the material for the 1.7 This test method does not cover procurement of the
sedimentation analysis and calculations for combining the sample or processing of the sample prior to obtaining the
results will be provided by the more general test method, such reduced sample in any detail. It is assumed that the sample is
as Test Methods D6913 (Note 2). obtained using appropriate methods and is representative of
NOTE 2—Subcommittee D18.03 is currently developing a new test site materials or conditions. It is also assumed that the sample
method “Test Method for Particle-Size Analysis of Soils Combining the has been processed such that the reduced sample accurately
Sieve and Sedimentation Techniques.” reflects the particle-size distribution (gradation) of this finer
1.4 The terms “soil” and “material” are used interchange- fraction of the material.
ably throughout the standard. 1.8 Material Processing—Material is tested in the moist or
as-received state unless the material is received in an air-dried
state. The moist preparation method shall be used to obtain a
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and sedimentation test specimen from the reduced sample. Air-
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.03 on Texture, Plasticity dried preparation is only allowed when the material is received
and Density Characteristics of Soils.
in the air-dried state. The method to be used may be specified
Current edition approved May 1, 2021. Published May 2021. Originally
approved in 2016. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as D7928 – 17. DOI: by the requesting authority; however, the moist preparation
10.1520/D7928-21E01 method shall be used for referee testing.

*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

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 D7928 − 21´1
1.9 This test method is not applicable for the following priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
soils: mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.9.1 Soils containing fibrous peat. 1.15 This international standard was developed in accor-
1.9.2 Soils containing less than approximately 5 % of fine- dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
grained material (Note 1). ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
1.9.3 Soils containing extraneous matter, such as organic Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
solvents, oil, asphalt, wood fragments, or similar items (Note mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
3). Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
NOTE 3—If extraneous matter, such as wood, can be easily removed by 2. Referenced Documents
hand, it is permissible to do so. However, there may be cases where the
2.1 ASTM Standards:2
extraneous matter is being evaluated as part of the material and it should
not be removed from the material. D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
1.9.4 Materials that contain cementitious components, such Fluids
as cement, fly ash, lime, or other stabilization admixtures. D854 Test Methods for Specific Gravity of Soil Solids by
Water Pycnometer
1.10 This test method may not produce consistent test
D1140 Test Methods for Determining the Amount of Mate-
results within and between laboratories for the following soils.
rial Finer than 75-µm (No. 200) Sieve in Soils by Washing
To test these soils, this test method must be adapted and these
D2216 Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water
adaptations documented.
(Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
1.10.1 Soils that flocculate during sedimentation. Such ma- D2487 Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering
terials may need to be treated to reduce salinity or alter the pH Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System)
of the suspension. D2488 Practice for Description and Identification of Soils
1.10.2 Friable soils in which processing changes the grada- (Visual-Manual Procedures)
tion of the soil. Typical examples of these soils are some D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies
residual soils, most weathered shales, decomposed granites,
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Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as
and some weakly cemented soils. Used in Engineering Design and Construction
1.10.3 Soils that will not readily disperse, such as glauco- D4220/D4220M Practices for Preserving and Transporting
(https://standards.iteh.ai)
nitic clays or some dried plastic clays.
1.11 Samples that are not soils, but are made up of particles
Soil Samples
D4318 Test Methods for Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and

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may be tested using this method. The applicable sections above Plasticity Index of Soils
should be used in applying this standard. D4753 Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Bal-
ances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and
1.12 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded Construction Materials Testing
as standard. Except the sieve designations, they areASTMidentified
D7928-21e1
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical
using the “alternative” system in accordance with Practice E11,
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such as 3-in. and No. 200, instead of the “standard” designation
Data
D6913 Test Methods for Particle-Size Distribution (Grada-
of 75-mm and 75-µm, respectively. Reporting of test results in tion) of Soils Using Sieve Analysis
units other than SI shall not be regarded as non-conformance E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test
with this test method. The use of balances or scales recording Sieves
pounds of mass (lbm) shall not be regarded as nonconformance E100 Specification for ASTM Hydrometers
with this standard. E126 Test Method for Inspection, Calibration, and Verifica-
1.13 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the tion of ASTM Hydrometers
guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in E177 Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in
Practice D6026, unless superseded by this test method. ASTM Test Methods
1.13.1 The procedures used to specify how data are
collected/recorded and calculated in the standard are regarded 3. Terminology
as the industry standard. In addition, they are representative of 3.1 Definitions:
the significant digits that generally should be retained. The 3.1.1 For definitions of common technical terms used in this
procedures used do not consider material variation, purpose for standard, refer to Terminology D653.
obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any consider-
ations for the user’s objectives; and it is common practice to 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be 3.2.1 reduced sample, n—the minus 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm) sieve
commensurate with these considerations. It is beyond the scope or finer material that has been separated from the sample and
of this test method to consider significant digits used in
analysis methods for engineering or other data.
2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
1.14 This standard does not purport to address all of the
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- the ASTM website.

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 D7928 − 21´1
then split to reduce the mass while still having sufficient 4.4 The sedimentation test specimen is mixed with a dis-
quantity to meet the minimum mass requirements of Table 1. persing agent and test water. The slurry is allowed to condition
3.2.2 sample, n—material collected without limitation on and is then thoroughly mixed and placed in a cylinder with
the total mass or size range of particles meeting the minimum additional test water. Readings are taken with a hydrometer and
mass requirements provided in Table 1. thermometer over specific time intervals.
3.2.3 sedimentation sample, n—the minus No. 10 (2.0-mm) 4.5 The mass of particles passing specified particle diam-
or finer material separated from the reduced sample using the eters are calculated and recorded. The results produce a
separation sieve which is then used to obtain the sedimentation tabulation of particle size versus percent passing the separation
specimen and a water content specimen. sieve size that can be graphically presented as a gradation
3.2.4 sedimentation specimen, n—the material obtained curve. The plot is typically expressed as percent passing/finer
from the sedimentation sample having a maximum particle- than the separation sieve size versus the log of the particle size
size no greater than the No. 10 (2.0-mm) sieve to be used in the in millimeters. These results can then be combined with the
sedimentation test and in sufficient quantity to satisfy the results of a mechanical sieve analysis to obtain a complete
minimum mass requirements of Table 1. particle size distribution.
3.2.5 separation sieve, n—the No. 10 (2.0-mm) sieve or 5. Significance and Use
finer (Note 4) used to separate the reduced sample to obtain the
material for the sedimentation sample. 5.1 Particle-size distribution (gradation) is a descriptive
term referring to the proportions by dry mass of a soil
NOTE 4—The methodology for using a sieve finer than the No. 10 distributed over specified particle-size ranges. The gradation
(2.0-mm) is not defined in this standard. The methodology used to obtain
a representative sample using a sieve finer than the No. 10 (2.0-mm) is not curve generated using this method yields the distribution of silt
the same as obtaining the representative sample using the No. 10 (2.0-mm) and clay size fractions present in the soil based on size
sieve as presented in this standard. Additional effort or steps are necessary definitions, not mineralogy or Atterberg limit classification.
to make sure the material passing the finer sieve adequately represents the
sample. Such additional effort or steps should be documented if using a 5.2 Unless the sedimentation sample is representative of the
sieve finer than the No. 10 (2.0-mm) sieve to obtain the sedimentation entire sample, the sedimentation results must be combined with
specimen.
iTeh Standards a sieve analysis to obtain the complete particle size distribu-
tion.
4. Summary of Test Method
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4.1 This test method is used to determine the particle-size
5.3 The clay size fraction is material finer than 2 µm. The
clay size fraction is used in combination with the Plasticity
distribution (gradation) of material finer than the No. 200
(75-µm) sieve as a percentage of Document
the mass used in the Preview
Index (Test Methods D4318) to compute the activity, which
provides an indication of the mineralogy of the clay fraction.
sedimentation test.
5.4 The gradation of the silt and clay size fractions is an
4.2 When the source material contains particles larger than
ASTM important factor in determining the susceptibility of fine-
D7928-21e1
the ⁄8-in. (9.5-mm) sieve, a reduced sample passing the ⁄8-in.
3 3
grained soils to frost action.
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(9.5-mm) sieve shall be obtained using techniques presented in
Test Methods D6913 or another standard. This reduced sample 5.5 The gradation of a soil is an indicator of engineering
shall meet the minimum mass requirements in Table 1 for the properties such as hydraulic conductivity, compressibility, and
3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm) sieve. The material is processed using the shear strength. However, soil behavior for engineering and
moist (referee) preparation method unless the material is other purposes is dependent upon many factors, such as
received in the air-dried state. effective stress, mineral type, structure, plasticity, and geologi-
4.3 The reduced sample is separated using the separation cal origin, and cannot be based solely upon gradation.
sieve to obtain a sedimentation sample. The sedimentation 5.6 Some types of soil require special treatment in order to
sample is then split to obtain the appropriate mass for the correctly determine the particle sizes. For example, chemical
sedimentation test specimen and a water content test specimen. cementing agents can bond clay particles together and should

TABLE 1 Minimum Dry Mass Requirements

Maximum Particle Size of Material Minimum Dry Mass of Specimen
(smallest sieve that 99% or more passes) (g or kg)
Alternative Maximum Reporting
Sieve Particle Results
Designation Size, mm to Nearest 1 %
No. 40 0.425 50 g
No. 10 2.00 50 g
No. 4 4.75 75 g
3⁄8 in. 9.50 165 g
3⁄4 in. 19.0 1.3 kg
1 in. 25.4 3 kg
11⁄2 in. 38.1 10 kg
2 in. 50.8 25 kg
3 in. 76.2 70 kg

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 D7928 − 21´1
be treated in an effort to remove the cementing agents when accuracy of at least 60.5°C. The thermometric device must be
possible. Hydrogen peroxide and moderate heat can digest capable of being immersed in the suspension and reference
organics. Hydrochloric acid can remove carbonates by washing solutions to a depth ranging between 25 and 80 mm. Full
and Dithionite-Citrate-Bicarbonate extraction can be used to immersion, also known as complete or total immersion
remove iron oxides. Leaching with test water can be used to thermometers, shall not be used. The thermometric device shall
reduce salt concentration. All of these treatments, however, add be standardized by comparison to a nationally or internation-
significant time and effort when performing the sedimentation ally traceable thermometric device and shall include at least
test and are allowable but outside the scope of this test method. one temperature reading within the range of testing. The
5.7 The size limits of the sedimentation test are from about thermometric device shall be standardized at least once every
100 µm to about 0.1 µm. The length of time required to obtain twelve months. The same thermometric device shall be used
a stable initial reading on the hydrometer controls the upper for all measurements.
range of results, and the test duration controls the lower range. 6.5 Timing Device—A clock, stopwatch, digital timer, or
5.8 The shape and density of the grains are important to the comparable device readable to one second or better.
results. Stokes’ Law is assumed to be valid for spherical 6.6 Balance—Balances shall conform to the requirements of
particles even though fine silt- and clay-sized particles are Specification D4753.
more likely to be plate-shaped and have greater mineral 6.6.1 To determine the mass of the specimen, the balance
densities than larger particles. shall have readability without estimation of 0.01 g. The
5.9 High plasticity clays develop structured water layers on capacity of this balance will need to exceed the mass of the
their surfaces. According to Zhang and Lu3 this near surface container plus soil used to contain the soil suspension after the
water can be as dense as 1.4 g/L. This high-density structured completion of the sedimentation test. In general, a balance with
water causes an error in this test method and shifts the particle a minimum capacity of 1,800 g is sufficient.
size distribution curve upwards. Correction for the structured 6.7 Drying Oven—Vented, thermostatically controlled oven
water is beyond the scope of this standard but values of percent capable of maintaining a uniform temperature of 110 6 5°C
passing above 100 % are possible and should not be excluded throughout the drying chamber. These requirements typically
from the report.
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NOTE 5—The quality of the result produced by this standard is
require the use of a forced-draft oven.
6.8 Plate—A clean, nonporous, smooth, solid surface that is
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dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the
large enough to pile and split about 500 g of material. The
suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the
surface shall not be made of any type of paper product.
criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent

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and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are
6.9 Specimen-Mixing Container—A glass beaker or equiva-
cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure
lent inert container with enough capacity to hold the specimen,
reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740
provides a means of evaluating some of those factors. the test water, and dispersant. A container of about 250 mL is
sufficient.
6. Apparatus ASTM D7928-21e1
6.10 Temperature Maintaining Device—Unless otherwise
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6.1 Hydrometer—ASTM hydrometer type 151H or 152H. specified by the requesting agency, the standard test tempera-
These hydrometers shall be in general conformance with the ture shall be in the range of 22 6 5°C. In addition, the
requirements in Specification E100 with the exception of temperature of the soil suspension shall not vary more than
dimensional specifications as indicated in Annex A1. 62°C. Normally, this temperature maintenance is accom-
6.2 Sedimentation Cylinder—At least two glass cylinders plished by performing the test in a room with a relatively
having a height of about 457 mm, an inside diameter between constant temperature. If such a room is not available, the
55 and 64 mm, and a capacity of 1,000 mL. The cylinders shall cylinders shall be placed in an automatically temperature
have an indication mark at 1,000 6 5 mL. One cylinder is used controlled insulated chamber or water bath that maintains a
for the soil suspension and the other one can be used as the temperature within the tolerance specified above.
control cylinder or the wash cylinder. The control cylinder 6.11 Soil Suspension Oven-Drying Container
shall have the same amount of dispersant as the soil suspension (Optional)—A container having smooth walls and capable of
cylinder. See Annex A1. holding approximately 1.5-L of the soil suspension. This
6.3 Separation Sieve—No. 10 (2-mm) or finer sieve used to container shall have a tight fitting lid or fit into a desiccator, to
separate the reduced sample. This sieve is subjected to rough prevent moisture gain during cooling of the oven-dried speci-
operation and shall not be used for quantitative grain size men. This is only required when there is insufficient material to
analysis. obtain the initial water content from a companion specimen.
6.4 Thermometric Device—A thermometric device capable 6.12 Dispersion Apparatus—Use one of the following de-
of measuring the temperature range within which the test is vices to disperse the specimen; however for referee testing, the
being performed readable to 0.5°C or better and having an stirring apparatus shall be used.
6.12.1 Stirring Apparatus (Referee)—A mechanically oper-
3
ated stirring device in which a suitably mounted electric motor
Zhang, C and Lu, N. “What is the Range of Soil Water Density? Critical
Reviews with a Unified Model,” Reviews of Geophysics, Vol 56, No. 3, July 2019, turns a vertical shaft at a minimum speed of 10,000 rpm
pp. 532–562. without load. The shaft shall be equipped with a replaceable

4
 D7928 − 21´1
stirring paddle made of metal, as shown in Fig. 1. The shaft inserted on top of and in the center of the larger disk. This
shall be of such length that the stirring paddle will operate device shall be used for referee testing.
between 19.0 mm and 37.5 mm above the bottom of the
dispersion cup. 6.14 Agitation of the Soil Slurry—Any of the following
6.12.1.1 Dispersion Cup—A special dispersion cup con- items may be used to break up the soil aggregations as
forming to either of the designs shown in Fig. 2 shall be described in 11.1:
provided to hold the sample while it is being dispersed. The 6.14.1 Erlenmeyer Flask—A glass flask having a capacity
cup shall contain two sets of three long baffle rods and two sets between 250 mL and 500 mL.
of three short baffle rods rigidly mounted to the interior sides 6.14.2 Dispersion Shaker—A platform, wrist action or simi-
of the cup. This cup is used with the stirring apparatus. lar type shaker having a gyratory, orbital, reciprocating, or
6.12.2 Air Jet Dispersion Device (Optional)—A tube type or similar motion to assist in the dispersion process by continu-
other comparable device that uses compressed air to disperse ously agitating the soaking soil.
the slurry (Note 6). The device requires an air source capable 6.14.3 Ultrasonic Water Bath—The ultrasonic water bath
of providing up to 0.0024 m3/s of air to operate the device, must be large enough to hold a beaker or flask containing the
such that pressures between about 70 and 170 kPa can be soil slurry to be agitated for use in the sedimentation test. The
achieved. The device shall be fitted with a pressure gauge on water level in the bath should be equal to or higher than the
the line between the device and the air source. Water may water level in the specimen container.
condense in the lines when not in use and this water must be
removed. There are two ways to remove the water: use of a 6.15 Desiccator (Optional)—A desiccant containing device
water trap or purging the lines before use. If a water trap is of suitable size used to prevent moisture gain during cooling of
used, it shall be installed on the air line in such a manner to the oven-dried specimen.
prevent condensed water from entering the slurry. This device
6.16 Mortar and Rubber-Covered Pestle (Optional)—
shall not be used in referee testing.
Apparatus suitable for breaking up aggregations of air-dried
NOTE 6—Use of this device or others, causes differing amounts of soil particles without breaking individual particles.
dispersion and should be used with caution. Information on how to
iTeh Standards 6.17 Miscellaneous Items—Items such as a wash/rinse
appropriately use this device should be obtained from the manufacturer.
0.0024 m3/s is equivalent to 5 ft3/min. The device typically needs at least
bottle (squirt bottle), rubber scraper, spatula, and stirring rod
0.0009 m3/s (2 ft3/min) to operate and therefore, some small air compres-
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sors are not capable of supplying sufficient air to operate the device.
6.13 Agitator (Optional/Referee)—A hand-held device to
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7. Reagents and Materials
mix the soil suspension in the sedimentation cylinder prior to
testing, as shown in Fig. 3. The agitator must not have any type 7.1 Sodium Hexametaphosphate (NaPO ) —Also referred 3 6
of metal, such as a screw head, protruding from the bottom of to as sodium metaphosphate is the dispersion agent (defloccu-
the disk. To aid in strengthening the connection between the lant) required to prevent the fine particles in suspension from
ASTM D7928-21e1
rod and the disk, a smaller disk (about 25 mm or less) having coalescing or flocculating (Note 7). Consult the Safety Data
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similar thickness and material as the larger disk, may be Sheet (SDS) for specific information regarding this chemical.

Dimensions are provided to give a sense of scale and will vary depending on manufacturer specifications.
FIG. 1 Typical Detail of Stirring Paddles

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 D7928 − 21´1

iTeh Standards
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ASTM D7928-21e1
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Dimensions are provided to give a sense of scale and will vary depending on manufacturer specifications.
FIG. 2 Typical Geometry of the Dispersion Cup

Dimensions are provided to give a sense of scale and will vary depending on manufacturer specifications.
FIG. 3 Detail of Agitator

7.2 Isopropyl Alcohol—Also referred to as isopropanol al- 7.3 Test Water—Distilled or demineralized water is the only
cohol or rubbing alcohol is used as a foam inhibitor. Commer- permissible test fluid. The use of tap water is not permitted.
cially available in concentrations ranging from 70 % to 99 %.

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 D7928 − 21´1
NOTE 7—Fine-grained soils requiring the use of a dispersant are those aggregations without destroying the individual particles. Addi-
that do not readily slake in water, such as some highly plastic clays and tional guidance for splitting material to obtain a representative
most tropical soils. Typically, 5 grams per test of dispersant is used to
prevent flocculation and is added directly to the soil, such that the
specimen using a splitter, quartering, or moist stockpile sam-
concentration will equal 5 g/L in the final soil suspension volume. The pling is given in Test Methods D6913, Annex A2.
chemical formula for the dispersant shown above is approximate.
NOTE 8—Air drying causes irreversible changes to some clay particles
8. Sampling that cause permanent flocculation and decreases the fine fraction.4

8.1 General—This test method does not address, in any 9.2 Moist Preparation (Referee)—This preparation method
detail, procurement of the sample. It is assumed the sample is shall be used for materials not received in the air-dried state.
obtained using appropriate methods and is representative of the This method is especially important for any soil whose
material under evaluation. However, the testing agency shall properties are altered due to drying such as, most organic soils,
preserve all samples in accordance with Practice D4220/ many highly plastic fine-grained soils, tropical soils and soils
D4220M, Group B, except if the as-received sample does not containing halloysite. The material is thoroughly mixed to
meet those requirements. In which case, the water content of obtain a uniform reduced sample. Intact fine-grained samples
the material does not have to be maintained. should be chopped/reduced into small pieces, less than ap-
proximately 10 mm, and mixed to make uniform. There is no
8.2 Where data from this test are to be used for correlation need to process the fine-grained materials through a sieve.
with other laboratory or field test data, use the same material as
used for these tests where possible and as much is practical. 9.3 Air-Dried Preparation—This preparation method shall
only be used if the sample is received in the dried condition. In
8.3 The sample can be from a variety of sources and contain order to obtain a uniform reduced sample, the sample is
a wide range of particle sizes. Typically, samples for particle- blended at room temperature.
size analysis are obtained from the following sources: large
bags or buckets, small bags, jar samples, tube samples, or 9.4 If the reduced sample contains particles which are larger
specimens from other tests, such as consolidation, hydraulic than the No. 10 (2.0-mm) sieve, the material shall be separated
conductivity or strength tests. In some cases, such as compac- using a No. 10 (2.0-mm) or finer sieve. Process the entire
reduced sample over the No. 10 (2.0-mm) or finer sieve using
iTeh Standards
tion testing, prior testing may have caused a reduction in
particle sizes; therefore, it may be required to obtain a sample
of the original material, the degraded sample, or both. Test
a rubber scraper and, if needed, test water to aid in working the
material through the sieve. Check that the material retained on

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Methods D6913, Section 9, gives additional information re-
garding sampling from the different sources.
the sieve does not contain aggregations of finer particles. Any
aggregations should be broken and passed through the sieve. It

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8.3.1 Preserve the sample at its original moisture condition is not necessary that the separation be totally complete but the
unless excluded above, and at no time shall the sample be material passing the sieve shall be representative of the passing
allowed to undergo undesirable temperature changes such as fraction. The material passing the separation sieve is termed the
freezing or heating. sedimentation sample and shall meet the minimum mass
ASTM3 D7928-21e1
requirement of Table 1. Record the separation sieve size that is
8.4 When the sample contains particles larger than the ⁄8-in. used to separate the sample.
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(9.5-mm) sieve, it shall be processed to obtain the reduced
sample. If particle-size separation is necessary, process the 9.5 Estimate the maximum amount of moist mass that can
sample to meet this requirement using the separation proce- be used for the sedimentation test using the following equation
dures provided in Test Methods D6913. (Note 9):
8.4.1 The reduced sample shall have a maximum particle
size that passes through the 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm) or smaller sieve.
M mest 5 H c 3
100
%est S D S S DD
3 1 1
w cest
100
(1)
8.4.2 The mass of the reduced sample shall meet or exceed
where:
the mass requirements given in Table 1.
Mmest = estimated maximum moist mass, nearest 1 g,
9. Preparation of the Test Specimen Hc = hydrometer capacity, g (either 45 for 151H or 55 for
9.1 Specimen Procurement—This standard presents two 152H),
preparation methods to obtain the sedimentation specimen %est = estimated percentage of material passing the No.
from the reduced sample: moist and air-dried. In these prepa- 200 (75-µm) sieve, nearest 1 %, and
wcest = estimated water content, nearest 1 %.
ration methods, moist and air-dried refers to the condition of
NOTE 9—The mass of the sedimentation test specimen should be
the material or sample as it is being reduced to an appropriate selected based on the amount of material that will be in suspension at the
particle size and mass. The test shall not be performed on time of the first reading. Using the maximum capacity of the hydrometer
oven-dried material. The moist preparation method shall be provides the highest resolution but is not a requirement. Exceeding the
used for referee testing and for samples not received in the capacity will make it impossible to obtain the initial readings. The
capacity of the 152H hydrometer is about 55 g of dry soil and the capacity
air-dried state. The air-dried method shall only be used on of the 151H is about 45 g. The wet mass should be adjusted to account for
materials received in the air-dried state (Note 8). Since some
fine-grained, air-dried soils aggregate, a mortar and rubber
covered pestle is used to break up aggregations. Care must be 4
Sridharan, A., Jose, B.T., and Abraham, B.M., Technical Note on “Determina-
taken to avoid disintegration or reduction of individual par- tion of Clay Size Fraction of Marine Clays,” Geotechnical Testing Journal,
ticles. Use only enough force as necessary to break up the GTJODJ, Vol. 14, No. 1, March 1991, pp. 103-107.

7
 D7928 − 21´1
the water content and the fraction of particles smaller than the No. 200 first 5 to 8 minutes of the test can be difficult. During that time it is
(75-µm) sieve. For example, if the water content is estimated at 20 %, acceptable to read the hydrometer to the nearest 1⁄2 division.
using a 151H hydrometer, and an estimated percent passing the No. 200
(75-µm) sieve of 95 %, the estimated moist mass is 57 g. 10.1.2 To insert the hydrometer correctly do the following:
First, make sure the stem is dry. Then, gently hold it by the
9.6 If the sedimentation sample contains sufficient material,
stem with one or both hands and slowly lower it to the depth
then split or quarter the sedimentation sample into at least two
slightly below the point at which it just floats. The hydrometer
portions: one for the water content determination and one for
should then rise slightly and become stable. This insertion
the sedimentation test. The water content specimen shall
process should take between 5 to 15 seconds.
contain 50 6 10 g of material. The sedimentation specimen
should be less than the limit computed in 9.5. 10.2 Temperature-Density Correction—During a test, the
9.7 If the sedimentation sample has limited material, do not suspension fluid density changes, therefore calculations for the
obtain a water content specimen. Obtain the dry mass, Md, of quantity of particles in suspension must account for fluid
the sedimentation specimen at the end of the sedimentation test density changes due to temperature, presence of dispersant, and
as discussed in 11.12 and calculated in 12.1.2. Reduce the mass the meniscus rise. The temperature-density correction is shift-
to be less than the limit computed in 9.5. ing the hydrometer scale, which is factory set for distilled
water at 20°C. There are two ways to determine this correction:
NOTE 10—If there is enough material after splitting/quartering to obtain take companion measurements in a control cylinder filled with
the necessary masses for both the sedimentation and water content the reference solution during the testing or generate a reusable,
specimens, the sedimentation sample is considered to have sufficient
material. If there is not enough material to obtain both the necessary calibration relationship. Both options require the use of a
masses of the specimens, the sedimentation sample is considered to have reference solution composed of test water and the same amount
limited material. of dispersant used in the sedimentation test cylinder. The
9.8 Record the mass of the moist soil, Mm, used for the meniscus correction is automatically accounted for in the
sedimentation test to the nearest 0.01 g. temperature-density correction for both options by consistently
reading the hydrometer at the top of the meniscus as described
9.9 Place the sedimentation specimen in the specimen-
in 10.3.
mixing container and record the identification of the specimen-
mixing container.
iTeh Standards
9.10 If sufficient material is available, immediately use the
10.2.1 Reference Solution—The reference solution shall be
prepared with the same amount of dispersant as the soil
suspension. Fill a control cylinder to the 1,000 mL mark with
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other specimen for determination of the water content in
accordance with Test Methods D2216, and record the water
a mixture of test water and the same amount of dispersant used
in the soil suspension cylinder. The test water and dispersant
content, wc, to the nearest 0.1 %.
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10. Verification/Preparation of Apparatus
shall be well mixed such that no visible crystals can be seen,
and the reference solution shall be agitated to make sure the
dispersant is adequately mixed throughout the control cylinder.
10.1 Hydrometer—Check and record the dimensions of the
10.2.1.1 Companion Measurements—Use a control cylinder
151H or 152H hydrometers as presented in Annex ASTMA1D7928-21e1
in
filled with the reference solution in conjunction with the soil
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accordance with the interval listed in the Annex. The hydrom-
suspension cylinder to obtain the correction. Position the
eter shall be free of cracks and chips, which can compromise
control cylinder in the same temperature controlled location as
the integrity of the hydrometer. The body and stem of a
the test cylinders so that all cylinders are at or near the same
hydrometer seldom change over time, unless they have been
temperature. For each hydrometer and temperature reading
subjected to corrosive materials or have been damaged, that is,
taken in the soil suspension cylinder, take a corresponding
chipped or cracked. They only need to be checked before initial
hydrometer and temperature reading in the control cylinder.
use or after damage has been suspected or seen. Since it is
However, it is permissible for one control cylinder reading to
possible for the paper scale inside the hydrometer stem to slide
be used in conjunction with readings in the soil suspension for
down, the hydrometer reading in the test water, shall be
up to 30 minute intervals. Record the elapsed time and the
checked and documented according to the interval presented in
hydrometer and temperature readings of the control cylinder on
Annex A1 to make sure the scale has remained in its proper
the data sheet(s) only when measured (Note 12).
place. If the scale has moved, the hydrometer shall be replaced.
10.1.1 Hydrometer Readings—Hydrometer readings are NOTE 12—Readings taken in one control cylinder may be used for
taken to the nearest 1⁄4 division (Note 11). Reading the multiple test cylinders. Therefore, if the hydrometer and temperature
hydrometer can be difficult. A properly placed hydrometer readings in the control cylinder are only taken once during the first 30
minutes of the test, only that reading is recorded on each of the data
should neither bob nor rotate appreciably when released in the sheet(s) to which it applies. These measured readings are not to be written
soil suspension. It is important for the stem to be dry and clean in for the other times during the first 30 minutes when a measurement was
when inserting it into the soil suspension. If the stem is wet not actually determined.
above the reading point it will add mass to the hydrometer 10.2.2 Calibration Relationship—This option generates a
causing the reading to be too low. If the stem is not clean, general calibration relationship between the hydrometer read-
variations in the meniscus rise will result. In this application, ing of a control cylinder filled with the reference solution and
the hydrometers are always read at the top of the meniscus for the temperature, which eliminates the need for companion
the reason stated in 10.3. measurements during the test. A temperature-based general
NOTE 11—Reading the hydrometer to the nearest 1⁄4 division during the calibration relationship is required and established for each

8
 D7928 − 21´1
hydrometer. A sedimentation cylinder is filled to the 1,000 mL 1606 setting the scale to read mass of solids in solution for a particle
mark with test water with the same amount of dispersant used specific gravity of 2.65.
in the soil suspension. Be sure the solution is thoroughly 10.3 Meniscus Correction—Hydrometers are designed to be
mixed, and the temperature is allowed to equilibrate. Then read at the fluid surface, however, the fluid is wetting to the
insert the hydrometer as described in 10.1.2. Take the reading glass such that the soil suspension will rise up the hydrometer
at the top of the meniscus and record this reading and the stem making a reading at the fluid surface impossible at times.
temperature of the solution. Rinse the hydrometer well with It is common practice to read the hydrometer at the top of the
test water between readings and dry it prior to taking the next meniscus and it must be taken there even when it is possible to
reading. Increase/Decrease the temperature of the cylinder, see through the soil suspension. The meniscus rise has a small
allow it to come to temperature equilibrium and repeat the impact on the effective depth determination since the reading is
measurement process. Take at least five different hydrometer taken slightly above the surface of the suspension. This rise
and temperature readings within the range of temperatures causes a change to the third significant digit in the computed
expected during the sedimentation test. Calculate the constant particle size. The meniscus correction is performed before
A or B as discussed below. initial use of the hydrometer and after damage has been
10.2.2.1 The 151H hydrometer measures the specific grav- suspected or noticed.
ity of the fluid relative to distilled water at 20°C. The 10.3.1 The meniscus correction, Cm, as shown in Fig. 4, is
calibration measurements are used to compute the constant A in determined by inserting the hydrometer with a clean and dry
the following equation. The standard deviation of the five stem and without bobbing into the test water with the proper
computed “A” values shall be less than 0.0005. The average amount of dispersant. The reading at the top of the meniscus
value of A is used when computing the temperature-density and the reading where the plane of water surface intersects the
correction. stem are recorded. The difference between these two readings
(top of meniscus minus plane of water surface) is the meniscus
A n 5 R 151,n 1 ~ 7.784 3 1026 3 T n ! 1 ~ 4.959 3 1026 3 T 2n ! (2) correction, Cm. Therefore, the meniscus correction is a nega-
where: tive value and has units of the hydrometer scale. In accordance
A = average specific gravity shift (151H hydrometer), with Test Method E126, the plane of water surface reading
nearest 0.0001, iTeh Standards
R151,n = 151H specific gravity hydrometer at reading, n, in
shall be obtained using the following guidance. Observe a
point slightly below the plane of the water surface and raise the

T (https://standards.iteh.ai)
reference solution, readable to 0.00025 or better,
= temperature at reading, n, readable to 0.5°C or
line of vision until this surface, seen as an ellipse, becomes a
straight line. The point where this line cuts the hydrometer
scale is the hydrometer reading. Holding a white card behind
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better, and
n = subscript indicating the reading number during the cylinder just below the water level will improve the
calibration. visibility of the surface. The hydrometer readings shall be
recorded to the nearest 1⁄4 division.
10.2.2.2 The 152H hydrometer measures the mass of par-
ticles (specific gravity of 2.65) in a suspensionASTM D7928-21e1
of distilled 10.4 Effective Depth—The effective depth, also referred to
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water at 20°C. The temperature-density correction provides the as “true depth,” is used in the calculation of the particle fall
offset mass reading for the hydrometer for a specific tempera- distance for each reading. The effective depth is defined as the
ture and dispersant concentration. The calibration measure- distance from the center of (volume) buoyancy of the hydrom-
ments are used to compute the constant B in the following eter to the surface of the soil suspension. The equation to
equation (Note 13). The standard deviation of the five com- calculate the effective depth when the hydrometer is inserted
puted “B” values shall be less than 0.5 g/L. The average value and removed between readings requires certain dimensional
of B is used when computing the temperature-density correc- measurements in order to do the calculation. Refer to Fig. 5.
tion. 10.4.1 Determine and record the volume of the hydrometer
bulb, Vhb, to the nearest 1 cm3 using the procedure given in
B n 5 R 152,n 1 ~ 1.248 3 1022 3 T n ! 1 ~ 7.950 3 1023 3 T 2n ! (3)

where:
B = average mass reading shift (152H hydrometer),
nearest 0.1,
R152,n = mass in reference solution hydrometer at reading, n,
readable to 0.25 g/L or better,
T = temperature at reading, n, readable to 0.5°C or
better, and
n = subscript indicating the reading number during
calibration.
NOTE 13—The equations relating the hydrometer readings to tempera-
ture are based on the same water density-temperature expression as used
in Test Methods D854. For the 151H specific gravity hydrometer, the
constants in the water density-temperature equation from Test Methods
D854 are divided by the density of water at 20°C (0.99821 g/mL). For the
152H mass in suspension hydrometer, the constants are multiplied by FIG. 4 Meniscus Correction Diagram

9
 D7928 − 21´1
well as the minimum hydrometer reading, Hr1. Record both
values to the nearest 0.1 cm. Refer to Fig. 5.
10.4.4 Measure and record the inside cross-sectional area of
the sedimentation cylinder, Ac, to the nearest 0.1 cm2 using the
procedure given in A1.4.2.1.
10.5 Sedimentation Cylinder—Check and record the dimen-
sions of the sedimentation cylinders as presented in Annex A1
in accordance with the interval presented in Annex A1.
10.6 Sieves—See Practice E11 for the verification require-
ments of the sieves used in this test method.
10.7 Miscellaneous—The ancillary equipment used in con-
junction with these test methods shall be calibrated/verified/
checked according the intervals listed in Practice D3740 and
performed in accordance with their applicable standards.

11. Procedure
11.1 Add 5.0 6 0.1 g of sodium hexametaphosphate to the
sedimentation specimen in the specimen-mixing container
obtained in 9.9 or dissolve this amount of dispersant in about
100 mL of test water and add it to the sedimentation specimen.
Record to the nearest 0.01 g the actual amount of dispersant,
Mdisp, placed in the container or dissolved in the test water. If
added directly to the sedimentation specimen, first add at least
100 mL of test water to the specimen and then the dispersant to
iTeh Standards form a slurry of milkshake consistency. The amount of test
water to be added during this step should be sufficient enough

(https://standards.iteh.ai) only to facilitate the process of breaking apart the soil

aggregations. Mix the contents with a spatula or similar device
until all of the soil aggregations are broken-up (Note 14).
Document Preview NOTE 14—If hand mixing is not efficient, use a 250 to 500 mL
Erlenmeyer flask along with either a wrist or orbital dispersion (mechani-
cal) shaker to vigorously agitate the soil slurry in a minimum of 150 mL
ASTM D7928-21e1
of test water for a few hours or until all the soil aggregations are
broken-up. Be aware the dispersion cup has a capacity of about 400 mL
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and the stirring apparatus is only efficient in dispersing soil aggregations
that will pass between the baffle rods. An ultrasonic water bath, along with
the flask, may also be used to agitate the slurry.
11.2 Prior to the overnight conditioning period, disperse the
slurry using either the stirring apparatus or an air jet device.
11.2.1 If using the stirring apparatus, transfer the slurry to
the dispersion cup. Use a wash/rinse bottle filled with test
water to aid in the transfer and make sure all of the slurry has
been transferred to the dispersion cup. Add additional test
water as necessary such that the cup is about half full, then use
the stirring apparatus to blend the soil for about 1 minute (Note
15).
NOTE 15—Subsection 11.2.1.1 provides the referee procedure to dis-
perse the soil. However, the stirring apparatus is known to create fines by
breaking fragments off weak grains. Alternative methods of dispersion
FIG. 5 Effective Depth Dimensional Measurements should be considered when testing friable materials.
11.2.1.1 Transfer all the dispersed slurry into the sedimen-
tation cylinder. Use the wash/rinse bottle filled with test water
Annex A1.3.4. The bulb includes everything from the bottom as needed to make sure all of the slurry is transferred to the
tip up to the base of the stem. cylinder. Add test water to the sedimentation cylinder to bring
10.4.2 Determine and mark the center of (volume) the bottom of the meniscus of the slurry to within 61 mm of
buoyancy, cb, using the procedure given in A1.3.5. the 1,000 mL mark.
10.4.3 Measure the distance between the center of (volume) 11.2.2 If using the tube type air jet device, transfer the slurry
buoyancy, cb, and the maximum hydrometer reading Hr2, as to the sedimentation cylinder. Use a wash/rinse bottle filled

10
 D7928 − 21´1
with test water to aid in the transfer and make sure all of the is less critical with respect to the calculations than the addition of water
slurry has been transferred to the cylinder. Add additional test (~5 mL) to the cylinder.
water as necessary to bring the volume to no more than 250 mL NOTE 17—The number of turns during this minute should be approxi-
mately 60 counting the turn upside down and back as two turns. Any soil
in the sedimentation cylinder. remaining in the bottom of the cylinder during the first few turns should
11.2.2.1 Before placing the device into the cylinder, slowly be loosened by vigorously shaking of the cylinder while it is inverted.
allow air to flow until the gauge reads about 7 kPa. This initial 11.4 If using a companion measurement to obtain the
pressure is needed to prevent the slurry from entering the air temperature-density correction, prepare the reference solution
jets when the device is inserted into the cylinder and to remove in a control cylinder by dissolving the same amount (5.0 6 0.1
any water that has condensed in the lines. Then, slowly lower g) of sodium hexametaphosphate as used in the soil suspension
the device into the slurry. Make sure the rubber stopper is cylinder in test water. Add test water to the sedimentation
securely in place at the top of the cylinder to prevent the slurry cylinder to bring the bottom of the meniscus of the solution to
from being ejected from the cylinder. 61 mm of the 1,000 mL mark.
11.2.2.2 For clayey soils increase the pressure to about 170
kPa and for sandy soils increase the pressure to about 70 kPa. 11.5 Cover the cylinder(s) to prevent evaporation and allow
Once the pressure is reached, disperse the slurry for five the cylinder(s) to sit overnight either in a temperature con-
minutes. At the end of five minutes, reduce the pressure to trolled insulated chamber or water bath or in an area of
about 7 kPa and lift the air jets out of the slurry and wash any relatively constant temperature. This conditioning period al-
slurry remaining on the device back into the cylinder. Once the lows the temperature to equilibrate and for the specimen to
device is washed off, turn off the air flow to the device and add deflocculate (Note 18). The soil slurry is now referred to as a
test water to the sedimentation cylinder to bring the bottom of soil suspension.
the meniscus of the slurry to within 61 mm of the 1,000 mL 11.6 At the end of the conditioning period, check the
mark. suspension for indications of flocculation (Note 19). If the
11.3 Mix the slurry using the agitator (referee) or the tipping suspension has indications of flocculation, then the test is
method (Note 16). The agitator device is the preferred/referee invalid and the suspension should be discarded since it has

iTeh Standards
method for mixing. Check for the presence of foam on top of been contaminated with dispersant. A new specimen would
the slurry after mixing. If a significant amount of foam is need to be treated to prevent flocculation. Such treatment is
beyond the scope of this test method.
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present, it may be necessary to reduce the foam using isopropyl
alcohol just prior to the start of testing (See 11.7.1). NOTE 18—Strong interparticle bonding can occur in suspensions having
11.3.1 To use the agitator, insert the paddle to the lower 1⁄4 high salt concentrations. The dispersant will not be effective in breaking

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of the cylinder. Stroke the agitator at a rate of about one cycle
per second over a distance of several centimeters to dislodge
these bonds. In such circumstances the salt should be leached from the soil
before proceeding with the sedimentation test. This leaching results in a
considerable increase in effort and difficulty to process the material and is
any material stuck to the bottom of the cylinder. After the not discussed in this standard.
material is dislodged, the agitator should be rapidly ASTM moved
D7928-21e1
NOTE 19—Flocculation of clay particles can be difficult to detect. Minor
downwards until the paddle almost comes into contact with the flocculation will shift the particle-size distribution (gradation) towards a
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bottom of the cylinder and then upwards with a slower motion. coarser fraction. Moderate flocculation will cause a plateau in the curve as
The downward stroke should take about one to two seconds the sedimentation process stops. Major flocculation will completely halt
sedimentation at an early stage. Only major flocculation is visually
while the upward stroke should take about two to three detectable showing a lack of material collected at the bottom of the
seconds. As this process is repeated, the elevation of the cylinder, a surface layer of clear fluid, or horizontal cracks in the
starting position of the agitation cycle is raised until the bottom suspension.
of the agitator is significantly above the mid-height of the soil 11.7 Once the suspension has temperature equilibrated and
suspension. Keep the paddle submerged at all times during deflocculated, the suspension shall once again be mixed to
mixing. Mix for about one minute or until the suspension create a uniform suspension. Repeat the mixing procedure as
appears uniform. described in 11.3. Upon completion of agitation, make sure the
11.3.2 To use the tipping method, first place a rubber cylinder is on a stable surface and in a location where it will not
stopper in the open end of the cylinder or use the palm of the be subjected to any jarring or disturbance and immediately start
hand to cover the opening. Then turn the cylinder upside down the timer as directed in either 11.7.2 or 11.7.3. If using a
and back for a period of one minute to complete the agitation temperature controlled water bath, immediately place the
of the slurry (Note 17). Using the cylinder tipping method is cylinder back into the water bath after agitation.
not very efficient and tipping for more than one minute will 11.7.1 If significant foam develops on top of the suspension
typically be required when testing highly plastic clays. This after mixing, immediately add up to three drops of isopropyl
method of agitation may leave some soil aggregations. Use of alcohol to the suspension to reduce or eliminate the foam.
the agitator is greatly encouraged.
11.7.2 If using the agitator, start the timer when the paddle
NOTE 16—When using the tipping method, there will likely be some of the agitator breaks the surface of the soil suspension. After
soil particles remaining on the rubber stopper or hand and on the sides of removing the agitator allow the “free” liquid on it to drain back
the sedimentation cylinder above the 1,000 mL mark. Be careful not to into the sedimentation cylinder.
lose much material by scraping the material adhering to the rubber stopper
or hand off onto the rim of the cylinder. Do not rinse these particles back 11.7.3 If using the tilting method, start the timer after
into the cylinder. The minor loss of mass (~0.02 g or less, if care is taken) completion of the last inversion.

11