ASTM D 4531 : 2023

1.1These test methods cover the determination of the bulk and dry density of both peat in its natural state and peat products (Note 1). These test methods consist of defining a volume of peat and determining the mass of that specific volume. The difference in the respective methods is in the procedures employed to determine the peat volume.

1.2The water content of a peat/peat product influences the bulk density. When using the bulk density for quantifying the amount of peat for use as a resource evaluation, the water content value needs to accompany the bulk density value.

1.3Method A—The core method covers the determination of the bulk density of a core of peat taken with a piston sampler or other suitable core sampler (Sections 7 and 8).

1.4Method B—The paraffin wax method, covers the determination of the bulk density of clods or irregular pieces of wet peat and compressed peat products (Sections 9 and 10).

1.5Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.6All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026.

1.7This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8This 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.