This standard specifies the procedures for determining the moisture content of stabilized soil mixtures. It details the standard oven-drying method and the rapid field sand-bath method, emphasizing strict temperature controls based on whether the soil is stabilized with cement, lime, or bitumen.
Methods of test for stabilized soils, Part 2: Determination of moisture content of stabilized soil mixtures
Quick Reference Values
test cycles12 cycles
curing period7 days
wetting duration5 hours in potable water
drying duration42 hours
drying temperature71 ± 3 °C
freezing duration24 hours
freezing temperature-23 °C
thawing duration23 hours
thawing temperature21 ± 2 °C
Key Formulas
Soil-cement loss (%) = (A / B) * 100 — where A is the original calculated oven-dry weight minus final oven-dry weight, and B is the original calculated oven-dry weight
Volume change (%) = ((V2 - V1) / V1) * 100 — where V1 is original volume and V2 is final volume
Practical Notes
Ensure strict adherence to the 7-day curing period in a moist room before starting the test cycles to obtain accurate baseline durability.
The application of the wire scratch brush must be consistent in force and strokes (usually two firm strokes over all areas) to ensure repeatable soil-cement loss measurements.
Monitor oven and freezer temperatures closely, as fluctuations can significantly alter the severity of the cycles and invalidate results.