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: D4546 − 14´1

Standard Test Methods for

One-Dimensional Swell or Collapse of Soils1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4546; 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—Editorially updated units of measurement statement in April 2018.

1. Scope* that can occur due to full wetting after fill construction. In
1.1 This standard covers two laboratory test methods for addition, the magnitude of swell pressure and the magnitude of
measuring the magnitude of one-dimensional wetting-induced free swell can be interpreted from the test results.
swell or collapse of unsaturated soils and one method for 1.3 Test Method B is commonly used for measuring one-
measuring load-induced compression subsequent to wetting- dimensional wetting-induced swell or hydrocompression of
induced deformation. individual intact samples. This method can be referred to as
1.1.1 Test Method A is a procedure for measuring one- single-point wetting-after-loading test. The vertical pressure at
dimensional wetting-induced swell or hydrocompression (col- wetting for the specimen is chosen equal to the vertical in-situ
lapse) of reconstituted specimens simulating field condition of stress (overburden stress plus structural stress, if any) corre-
compacted fills. The magnitude of swell pressure (the mini- sponding to the sampling depth. The test result indicates the
mum vertical stress required to prevent swelling), and free
amount of heave or hydrocompression that can result when the
swell (percent swell under a pressure of 1 kPa or 20 lbf/ft2) can
soil at a given fill depth is wetted from the current moisture
also be determined from the results of Test Method A.
condition to full inundation condition. If intact specimens from
1.1.2 Test Method B is a procedure for measuring one-
various depths are tested, the swell or collapse strain data can
dimensional wetting-induced swell or collapse deformation of
be used to estimate heave or settlement of the ground surface.
intact specimens obtained from a natural deposit or from an
existing compacted fill. The magnitude of swell pressure and If the objective of the test is to measure swell pressure for an
free swell can also be determined from the results of Test expansive soil, a series of intact specimens from a given depth
Method B. zone can be wetted under a range of pressures (similar to Test
1.1.3 Test Method C is a procedure for measuring load- Method A) and the results interpreted to determine the magni-
induced strains on a reconstituted or intact specimen after the tude of the swell pressure.
specimen has undergone wetting-induced swell or collapse 1.4 Test Method C is for measuring load-induced strains
deformation. after wetting-induced swell or collapse deformation has oc-
1.2 In Test Method A, a series of reconstituted specimens curred. This method can be referred to as loading-after-wetting
duplicating compaction condition of the fine fraction of the soil test. The test can be performed on either intact or reconstituted
in the field (excluding the oversize particles) are assembled in specimens, and can be on one specimen or a series of
consolidometer units. Different loads corresponding to differ- specimens. The results would apply to situations where new
ent fill depths are applied to different specimens and each fill, additional structural loads, or both, are applied to the
specimen is given access to free water until the process of ground that has previously gone through wetting-induced
primary swell or collapse is completed (Fig. 1) under a heave or settlement. The first part of the test is the same as in
constant vertical total stress (Fig. 2). The resulting swell or Test Method A or B. After completion of the swell or collapse
collapse deformations are measured. This test method can be under a given vertical load, additional vertical load increments
referred to as wetting-after-loading tests on multiple reconsti- are applied to the specimen in the same manner as in a
tuted specimens. The data from these tests can be used to consolidation test (Test Methods D2435) and the load-induced
estimate one-dimensional ground surface heave or settlement strains are measured.
1.5 It shall be the responsibility of the agency requesting
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil this test to specify the magnitude of each load for Test Method
and Rock and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.05 on Strength and A and Test Method B. For Test Method C, the agency
Compressibility of Soils. requesting the test should specify the magnitude of the stress
Current edition approved March 1, 2014. Published April 2014. Originally
approved in 1985. Last previous edition approved in 2008 as D4546 – 08. DOI: under which the specimen is wetted, and the magnitudes of the
10.1520/D4546-14E01. additional stress increments subsequent to wetting.

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

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 D4546 − 14´1
1.9.1 The procedures used to specify how data are collected/
recorded, or calculated, in this standard are regarded as the
industry standard. In addition, they are representative of the
significant digits that generally should be retained. The proce-
dures used do not consider material variation, purpose for
obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any consider-
ation for the user’s objectives; and it is common practice to
increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be
commensurate with these considerations. It is beyond the scope
of this standard to consider significant digits used in analysis
methods for engineering design.
1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
FIG. 1 Time-Swell Curve responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.11 This international standard was developed in accor-
1.6 These test methods do not address the measurement of
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
soil suction and suction-controlled swell-collapse tests. The
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
addition of suction-controlled wetting does not constitute
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
nonconformance to these test methods.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
1.7 These test methods have a number of limitations and Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
their results can be affected by one or a combination of factors
including the effect of significant amounts of oversize particles 2. Referenced Documents
(in Test Method A), sampling disturbance (in Test Method B) 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
and differences between the degree of wetting in the laboratory C127 Test Method for Relative Density (Specific Gravity)
test specimens and in the field. For details of these and other and Absorption of Coarse Aggregate
limitations, see Section 6. D422 Test Method for Particle-Size Analysis of Soils (With-
1.8 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as drawn 2016)3
standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
provided for information only and are not considered standard. Fluids
Test results recorded in units other than SI shall not be regarded D854 Test Methods for Specific Gravity of Soil Solids by
as nonconformance with this standard. Figures depicting the Water Pycnometer
test results can be either in SI units or in inch-pound units. D1587 Practice for Thin-Walled Tube Sampling of Fine-
1.8.1 The converted inch-pound units use the gravitational Grained Soils for Geotechnical Purposes
system of units. In this system, the pound (lbf) represents a unit D2216 Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water
of force (weight), while the unit for mass is slugs. The slug unit (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
is not given, unless dynamic (F = ma) calculations are D2435 Test Methods for One-Dimensional Consolidation
involved. Properties of Soils Using Incremental Loading
1.8.2 It is common practice in the engineering/construction D2487 Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering
profession to concurrently use pounds to represent both a unit Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System)
of mass (lbm) and of force (lbf). This implicitly combines two D2488 Practice for Description and Identification of Soils
separate systems of units; that is, the absolute system and the (Visual-Manual Procedures)
gravitational system. It is scientifically undesirable to combine D3550 Practice for Thick Wall, Ring-Lined, Split Barrel,
the use of two separate sets of inch-pound units within a single Drive Sampling of Soils
standard. As stated, this standard includes the gravitational D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies
system of inch-pound units and does not use/present the slug Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as
unit for mass. However, the use of balances or scales recording Used in Engineering Design and Construction
pounds of mass (lbm) or recording density in lbm/ft3 shall not D4220 Practices for Preserving and Transporting Soil
be regarded as nonconformance with this standard. Samples
1.8.3 The terms density and unit weight are often used D4318 Test Methods for Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and
interchangeably. Density is mass per unit volume whereas unit Plasticity Index of Soils
weight is force per unit volume. In this standard density is
given only in SI units. After the density has been determined, 2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
the unit weight is calculated in SI or inch-pound units, or both. contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
1.9 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the
the ASTM website.
guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in 3
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
Practice D6026. www.astm.org.

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 D4546 − 14´1

FIG. 2 Deformation Versus Vertical Stress, Test Method A

D4718 Practice for Correction of Unit Weight and Water 3.2.8 reconstituted specimen—a test specimen compacted
Content for Soils Containing Oversize Particles into a mold.
D4753 Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Bal- 3.2.9 secondary swell or collapse (L)—long-term swell or
ances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and collapse characterized as the linear portion of the plot shown in
Construction Materials Testing Fig. 1 following completion of primary swell or collapse.
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical
3.2.10 settlement (L)—decrease in vertical height of a col-
Data
umn of soil.
D6027 Practice for Calibrating Linear Displacement Trans-
ducers for Geotechnical Purposes 3.2.11 swell (L)—increase in thickness of a soil element or
D6913 Test Methods for Particle-Size Distribution (Grada- a soil specimen following absorption of water.
tion) of Soils Using Sieve Analysis 3.2.12 swell pressure (FL-2)—the minimum stress required
to prevent swelling.
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of common technical terms 4. Summary of Test Methods
in this standard, refer to Terminology D653. 4.1 In these test methods a soil specimen is restrained
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: laterally in a rigid mold and loaded vertically (axially) in
3.2.1 collapse or hydrocompression (L)—wetting-induced increments up to a load that depends on the purpose of the test.
decrease in height of a soil element or test specimen. Subsequent to reaching equilibrium under the applied load, the
specimen is inundated with test water and the one-dimensional
3.2.2 collapse or hydrocompression strain—%-wetting-
wetting-induced swell or collapse strain is measured. Test
induced change in height divided by the height immediately
Method A is specified for specimens that are reconstituted
prior to wetting.
using the fill material excluding the oversize fraction. Test
3.2.3 compression (L)—decrease in height of a soil element Method B is for intact samples of a natural soil or an existing
or test specimen due to wetting (synonymous with hydrocom- fill. In both cases, the measured strains are wetting-induced,
pression or collapse) or due to increase in total stress. not load-induced. Test Method C is used for measuring
3.2.4 free swell, %—percent swell following absorption of load-induced compression subsequent to wetting-induced
water at the seating pressure of 1 kPa (20 lbf/ft2). swell or collapse
3.2.5 intact specimen—a test specimen obtained from a
natural deposit or from an existing compacted fill or embank- 5. Significance and Use
ment using undisturbed sampling equipment. 5.1 The wetting-induced swell/collapse strains measured
3.2.6 percent heave or settlement, %—change in vertical from Test Methods A and B can be used to develop estimates
height divided by the height of a column of soil immediately of heave or settlement of a confined soil profile (1 and 2).4
before wetting. They can also be used to estimate the magnitudes of the swell
3.2.7 primary swell or collapse (L)—amount of swell or
collapse characterized as being completed at the intersection of 4
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to a list of references at the end of
the two tangents to the curve shown in Fig. 1. this standard.

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 D4546 − 14´1
pressure and the free swell strain. The load-induced strains secondary heave/settlement can be added if necessary. This can
after wetting from Test Method C can be used to estimate be done based on the slope of plot of strain versus Log time
stress-induced settlement following wetting-induced heave or line in Fig. 1.
settlement. Selection of test method, loading, and inundation 6.1.7 Any differences between the chemical content of the
sequences should, as closely as possible, simulate field condi- field water and the water used in the laboratory tests might
tions because relatively small variations in density and water influence the amount of heave/settlement in the field.
content, or sequence of loading and wetting can significantly 6.1.8 For reliable test results, the stress path and the wetting
alter the test results (3 and 4). sequence should as closely as possible simulate field condi-
NOTE 1—The quality of the result produced by this standard is
tions. Because the shape of the wetting-induced strain versus
dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it and the vertical stress curves (Figs. 3-5) depend on the stress path and
suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the the wetting sequence (1, 3, and 4), loading-after-wetting tests
criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent on a single specimen (Test Method C) should not be expected
and objective testing. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance to give results applicable to wetting-after-loading cases (Test
with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable
results depends on several factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of Methods A and B)
evaluating some of these factors.
7. Apparatus
6. Limitations 7.1 Consolidometer—A suitable device for applying axial
6.1 When using data from these test methods, the following loads to the specimen. The device shall be capable of main-
limitations should be considered: taining the specified loads for long periods of time with a
6.1.1 Laboratory one-dimensional tests simulate vertical precision of 60.5 % of the applied load.
deformation with full lateral restraint; they do not simulate 7.1.1 Specimen Ring—The consolidation ring holding the
lateral collapse or lateral swell. specimen shall be fabricated to a tolerance of at least 0.1 %.
6.1.2 Inundation of specimens in the laboratory represent an The ring shall be stiff enough to prevent significant lateral
extreme case of wetting and the results represent upper bound deformation of the specimen throughout the test. The rigidity
values for swell/collapse strains, and the degrees of saturation of the ring shall be such that, under hydrostatic stress condi-
typically rise to 90–95 % (not 100 %, (1)). The wetting tions in the specimen, the change in diameter of the ring will
situation in the field rarely produces inundation; wetting is not exceed 0.04 % of the diameter under the greatest load
often caused by water percolation. In-situ water contents and applied. The ring shall be made of a material that is noncor-
degrees of saturation typically end up being somewhat lower rosive in relation to the soil or pore fluid. The inner surface
than those caused by inundation in the laboratory. shall be highly polished or shall be coated with a low-friction
Consequently, the magnitudes of swell/collapse strains in the material.
field might be somewhat smaller than those measured in the 7.1.2 Minimum Specimen Diameter—The minimum speci-
laboratory. Partial wetting tests can be performed for estimat- men diameter or inside diameter of the specimen ring shall be
ing a partial wetting reduction factor for use in conjunction 50 mm (2.00 in.).
with heave/settlement calculations (1, 2, and 5). 7.1.3 Minimum Specimen Height—The minimum initial
6.1.3 Because laboratory tests are usually performed in specimen height shall be 20 mm (0.8 in.), but shall be not less
small molds, gravels and other granular inert particles (over- than six times the maximum particle diameter in the soil.
size) are excluded from the specimen. The specimen is 7.1.4 Minimum Specimen Diameter-to-Height Ratio—The
reconstituted using water content and dry density of the fine minimum specimen diameter-to-height ratio shall be 2.5.
fraction. Because of limitations on the accuracy of the oversize 7.2 Porous Disks—The porous disks shall be of silicon
correction equations 1 and 2 (Practice D4718), tests in large carbide, aluminum oxide, or other material of similar stiffness
molds would be necessary for soils that have more than 40 % that is not corroded by the specimen or pore fluid. The disks
oversize particles larger than 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve. shall be fine enough that the soil will not penetrate into their
6.1.4 Disturbance and variability in composition of intact pores, but have sufficient hydraulic conductivity so as not to
specimens can affect the test results. The effect of disturbance impede the flow of water from the specimen. Porous disks shall
can be particularly significant for soils of low plasticity that be smooth ground and fine enough to minimize intrusion of soil
have some cementation in their natural state (5). into the disk if filter paper is not used, and shall reduce false
6.1.5 Rates of swell or collapse as measured by laboratory displacements caused by seating of the specimen against the
time rate curves are not always reliable indicators of field rates surface of porous disk. Errors due to such false displacements
of heave/settlement due to soil nonuniformity, fissures or may be significant, especially if displacements and applied
localized permeable layers within the soil mass, variability in vertical pressures are small.
percentage of oversize particles, and non-uniform wetting
(different sources of water, concurrent vertical downward NOTE 2—A suitable pore size is 10 µm if filter paper is not used.
percolation and lateral percolation from canyon sides, localized 7.2.1 Porous disks shall be air-dried. New porous disks
wetting anomalies due to leaking buried utility lines, cyclic should be boiled in water for about 10 minutes before
wetting episodes). air-drying to ambient temperatures. Immediately after each
6.1.6 Secondary long-term swell/collapse may be signifi- use, clean the porous disks with a non-abrasive brush and wash
cant for some soils and estimates of slow time-dependent or boil to remove any soil particles.

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 D4546 − 14´1

FIG. 3 Stress Versus Wetting-Induced Swell/Collapse Strain, Test Method A

FIG. 4 Deformation Versus Vertical Stress, Single-Point Test Method B

7.2.2 Porous disks shall fit close to the consolidometer ring 7.5 Deformation Indicator—To measure the axial deforma-
to avoid extrusion or punching of the soil specimen under high tion of the specimen with a resolution of 0.0025 mm (0.0001
vertical pressures. Suitable porous disk dimensions are de- in.) or better. Practice D6027 provides details on the evaluation
scribed in Test Methods D2435. of displacement transducers
7.2.3 If filter paper is used with porous disks, the paper 7.6 Balances—The balance(s) shall be suitable for deter-
should be included when the system is being calibrated in both mining the mass of the specimen plus the containment ring and
dry and wet conditions (see Section 9). for making the water content measurements. The balance(s)
NOTE 3—Filter paper is not recommended because of its high com- shall be selected as discussed in Guide D4753. The mass of
pressibility after wetting. specimens shall be determined to at least four significant digits.
7.3 Plastic Wrap, Aluminum Foil, or Moist Filter Paper, a
7.7 Drying Oven, in accordance with Test Methods D2216.
loose fitting cover to enclose the specimen, ring, and porous
stones prior to inundating the specimen, used to minimize 7.8 Water Content Containers, in accordance with Test
evaporation from the specimen. Methods D2216.
7.4 Micrometer or Other Suitable Device—To measure the 7.9 Environment—Unless otherwise specified by the re-
inside diameter of the mold and the height of the specimen to questing agency, the standard test temperature shall be in the
the nearest 0.025 mm (0.001 in.). range of 22 6 5°C. In addition, the temperature of the

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 D4546 − 14´1

FIG. 5 Deformation Versus Vertical Stress, Loading-after-Wetting Test Method C

consolidometer, test specimen, and submersion reservoir shall 8.5 Containers for storage of extruded samples may be
not vary more than 62°C throughout the duration of the test. either cardboard or metal and should be approximately 25 mm
Normally, this control is accomplished by performing the test (1 in.) greater in diameter and 40 to 50 mm (1.5 to 2.0 in.)
in a room with a relatively constant temperature. If such a room greater in length than the sample to be encased.
is not available, the apparatus shall be placed in an insulated 8.6 Soil samples stored in containers should be completely
chamber or other device that maintains the temperature within sealed in wax. The temperature of the wax should be 8 to 14°C
the tolerance specified above. The apparatus should be located (15 to 25°F) above the melting point when applied to the soil
in an area that does not have direct exposure to sunlight. sample; wax that is too hot will penetrate pores and cracks in
7.10 Test Water—Water used to inundate the specimens the sample and render it useless and will also dry the sample.
shall be similar in composition to the water that is the main Aluminum foil, cheese cloth, or plastic wrap may be placed
source of wetting in the field. In the absence of the field water, around the sample to prevent penetration of molten wax into
the test should be performed with potable tap water. open fissures. A small amount of wax about 12.7-mm (0.5-in.)
7.11 Miscellaneous Equipment—Including timing device, thickness should be placed in the bottom of the container and
spatulas, knives, and wire saws, used in preparing the speci- allowed to partly congeal. The sample should subsequently be
men. Including devices for evacuating the water surrounding placed in the container, completely immersed and covered with
the mold at the end of the test before the specimen is unloaded molten wax, and then allowed to cool before moving.
and removed for weighing and oven-drying. NOTE 4—A good wax for sealing expansive soils consists of a 1 to 1
mixture of paraffin and microcrystalline wax or 100 % beeswax.
8. Sampling and Storage of Naturally Occurring Soils 8.7 Examine and test samples as soon as possible after
receipt; however, samples required to be stored should be kept
8.1 Disturbance of the intact samples can greatly influence
in a humidity controlled room and may require re-waxing and
results and should be minimized. Practice D1587 and Practice
relabeling before storage. Samples encased in wax or sampling
D3550 cover procedures and apparatus that may be used to
tubes may be cut using a band-saw. The soil specimen should
obtain satisfactory intact samples. Practices D4220 covers
be adequately supported while trimming to size using sharp
procedures for preserving and transporting soil samples.
clean instruments. The specimen may be extruded from a
8.2 Storage in sampling tubes is not recommended for section of sampling tube and trimmed in one continuous
swelling soils even though stress relief may be minimal. The operation to minimize sampling disturbance.
influence of rust and penetration of drilling fluid or free water
into the sample may adversely influence laboratory test results. 9. Specimen Preparation
Sampling tubes should be brass, stainless steel, or galvanized
or lacquered inside to inhibit corrosion in accordance with 9.1 Reconstituted or intact specimens may be used for
Practice D1587. testing. The specimens shall have a minimum diameter of 50
mm (2.0 in.) and a minimum height of 20 mm (0.8 in.). The
8.3 If samples are to be stored prior to testing, they should height of specimen and diameter of mold shall be measured to
be thoroughly sealed to minimize stress relief and moisture the nearest 0.025 mm (0.001 in.) or better (7.4). The height of
change. The sample should be extruded from the sampling tube the specimen shall be at least 6 times greater than the largest
in the same direction as sampled, to minimize further sample particle size within the specimen. Variations in length or
disturbance. If the sample cannot be extruded from the tubes diameter shall not exceed 5 %. Compute the initial and final
immediately, they should be handled and shipped in accor- specimen volumes to the nearest 0.001 cm3 or 0.001 in3.
dance with Practices D4220, Group D. 9.1.1 Reconstituted specimens should be prepared using the
8.4 Drilling with drilling fluid should be avoided to prevent soil’s fine fraction (excluding the oversize), and should dupli-
any changes in sample’s water content and density. cate field conditions in terms of water content, dry density, and

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 D4546 − 14´1
method of compaction (kneading, moist-tamping, or static). top surface of the specimen using a dial indicator, displacement
The desired density can be obtained by mass and volume transducer or similar measuring device (7.4).
control. Measured masses of soil can be placed in layers and 9.1.1.8 Measure and record the diameter of the ring to the
compacted to a pre-determined volume for each layer. The nearest 0.01 mm (0.001 in.) by taking the average of at least
specimen shall have a minimum of two layers and a maximum three measurements 120° apart along the inside of the ring.
layer thickness of 15 mm (0.6 in.). The surface of the soil 9.2 Test Method B is performed on intact specimens.
placed in each layer should be scarified before the next layer is 9.2.1 Determine and record the mass, height, and diameter
placed and compacted. as described in 9.1.1.6 – 9.1.1.8.
9.1.1.1 Because laboratory molds are typically small in size, 9.2.2 Take at least two water content measurements from
only the soil fraction finer than 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve or 2.00 the bulk samples retrieved from the field, trimmings adjacent to
mm (No. 10) sieve is used for specimen preparation. The the specimen, or both.
coarse fraction excluded is termed “oversize.” If the percentage 9.2.3 The height of the mold should be at least six times
of oversize particles is significant (more than 5 % coarser than greater than the largest particle size within the intact specimen.
4.75 mm) oversize correction, Eq 1 and 2 can be used to This requirement may necessitate the use of large molds. If,
compute water content and dry density of the fine fraction that after completion of the test it is found that oversize particles are
is used in specimen preparation (see Practice D4718). present, that information should be indicated on the test data
~ w t 2 w c ·P c ! sheet. If it is decided to reconstitute the fine fraction of the
wf 5 (1) intact specimen excluding the oversize particles as described in
~ 1 2 P c!
~ 9.1.1.1, test details including the size and the percentage of the
1 2 P c ! ·G c ·ρ dt ·ρ w
ρ df 5 (2) oversize particles should be recorded on the data sheets.
~ G c ·ρ w 2 P c ·ρ dt!
9.2.4 Sample disturbance can affect the results of Test
where: Method B particularly for porous soils of low plasticity (5).
wf = water content of fine fraction used in reconstituted The initial load-unload-reload cycle prior to wetting (12.2)
specimens, expressed as a decimal (nearest 0.0001), provides some indication of the relative degree of disturbance.
wt = water content of total material, expressed as a decimal
(nearest 0.0001), 10. Calibration
wc = water content of oversize fraction, if any, not used in 10.1 Calibrate the consolidation machine in accordance
laboratory specimen, expressed as a decimal (nearest with Test Methods D2435, except that if filter papers are to be
0.0001), used during the test, compression of filter paper should be
Pc = fraction of oversize materials by dry mass, expressed calibrated in both dry condition and inundation-after-loading
as a decimal (nearest 0.0001), condition. Because the amount of filter paper compression
ρdf = dry density of fine fraction, g/cm3 or Mg/m3 (nearest depends on the loading and wetting sequence, calibration is
0.001), needed for all loads that will be used in the test.
ρdt = dry density of total material, g/cm3 or Mg/m3 (nearest
0.001), 11. Soil Index Property Determination
ρw = density of water at 20°C, g/cm3 or Mg/m3 (nearest 11.1 The determination of index properties is an important
0.001), and adjunct to, but not a requirement of the swell/collapse tests.
Gc = bulk specific gravity of oversize fraction, saturated-
These determinations when specified by the requesting agency
surface-dry condition (nearest 0.001).
shall be made on the most representative material possible.
9.1.1.2 The percentage of oversize fraction, Pc, in the above When testing uniform materials, the index tests may be
equations is the ratio of dry mass of oversize fraction to total performed on adjacent trimmings collected from around the
dry mass. It can be determined as described in Practice D4718. specimen that have been stored in a sealed container. When
9.1.1.3 Measure and record the specific gravity of oversize samples are heterogeneous or trimmings are in short supply,
fraction, Gc, (Test Methods D854 and C127) for use in Eq 2. index tests should be performed on material from the test
9.1.1.4 Using wf and ρdf, calculate the bulk (wet) density of specimen obtained after test completion, plus the representa-
the fine fraction: tive trimmings collected.
ρ f 5 ρ df ~ 11w f ! (3) 11.2 Soil index properties should be measured in accor-
dance with applicable ASTM test procedures. Measure initial
9.1.1.5 Multiple specimens should be reconstituted (com- and final water contents in accordance with Test Methods
pacted into mold) at a water content equal to wf and a bulk D2216, dry densities in accordance with Test Methods D2435,
density equal to ρf. specific gravity in accordance with Test Methods D854,
9.1.1.6 Measure and record the initial specimen mass, to the plasticity properties in accordance with Test Methods D4318,
nearest 0.01 g, in the consolidometer ring by measuring the particle size distribution in accordance with Test Methods
mass of the ring with specimen and subtracting the mass of the D422, D6913, or both, and oversize correction with Practice
ring. D4718.
9.1.1.7 Measure and record the initial height of the
specimen, h, to the nearest 0.01 mm (0.001 in.) by taking the 12. Procedures
average of at least four evenly spaced measurements over the 12.1 Test Method A:

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12.1.1 Assemble four or more identically prepared speci- three or more load increments with a total time not exceeding
mens in the consolidometer units; use dry filter paper or no one hour. Depending on the degree of sampling disturbance,
filter paper, and air dry porous disks. Enclose the space around there may be a small or significant amount of compression
the specimen ring with a loose-fitting plastic wrap or foil to during this stage of loading. Then unload the specimen and
minimize change in specimen water content. If any moist paper reload it again in increments. The difference between the
is placed around the ring, the paper should not come in contact magnitude of compression in the first and the second cycle of
with the porous stones. load application is indicative of sample disturbance (Fig. 4).
12.1.2 Apply a seating pressure of 1 kPa (20 lbf/ft2), 12.2.3 Subsequent to reapplying the stress equal to the
including the mass of the top porous stone and load plate, to in-situ vertical stress, allow the specimen to stabilize for a
each specimen and set the dial indicator or any other period of 30-60 minutes while taking a number of readings to
deformation-measuring device to zero for the initial reading. verify the equilibrium condition.
12.1.3 Apply loads in increments to build up different stress 12.2.4 Inundate the specimen and measure the resulting
levels on the four or more identical specimens as depicted in swell or hydrocompression strains over time intervals of 0.5
Fig. 2. For example, the stress applied to Specimen 1 may be min, 1 min, 2 min, 4 min, 8 min, 15 min, 30 min, 1 h, 2 h, 4
1 kPa (20 lbf/ft2), to Specimen 2, 20 kPa (400 lbf/ft2), to h, 8 h, 24 h, and so on (typically, 24 to 72 h). Measure the final
Specimen 3, 50 kPa (1000 lbf/ft2), to Specimen 4, 100 kPa wetting-induced swell or hydrocompression deformation be-
(2000 lbf/ft2), and so forth. The stress values should be selected fore taking the specimen out.
to cover the range of vertical pressure representing the entire 12.2.5 In order to measure the final mass and water content
fill depth. The vertical pressure at a given fill depth is the of the specimen when it comes to equilibrium after wetting,
overburden pressure, plus stresses due to structural loads, if precautions need to be taken to avoid absorption of free test
any. Build up the stress on each specimen in increments over 5 water in the process of removing the specimen from the
to 10-min intervals, with total loading time not exceeding one consolidometer. Follow the steps described in Section 12.1.5.
hour to avoid drying of specimens. After recording the amount 12.2.6 Test Method B can also be used for measuring the
of compression of each specimen, ∆h1 (Fig. 2), inundate each swell pressure at a given depth zone of a natural deposit or an
specimen with the test water and take deformation readings at existing fill. A series of four or more intact specimens obtained
time intervals of 0.5 min, 1 min, 2 min, 4 min, 8 min, 15 min, from the same depth zone and having similar compositions can
30 min, 1 h, 2 h, 4 h, 8 h, 24 h, and so on (typically 24 to 72 be tested under different pressures. The range of pressures
h) until primary swell or collapse volume change is completed should be selected such that the wetting-induced strains would
and changes in deformation reading for secondary swell/ include both swell and hydrocompression. The results can be
collapse phase is small. Depending on the stress level on each plotted similar to that shown in Fig. 3, and the swell pressure
specimen, the effect of inundation might be swell, collapse, corresponding to zero strain can be determined.
slight swell and then collapse, or slight collapse and then swell.
Record the final amount of wetting-induced swell or collapse 12.3 Test Method C:
deformation, ∆h2 (Fig. 2), before taking the specimen out. 12.3.1 The procedure for the first phase of this test method
12.1.4 Record the swell or collapse deformations to the is the same as Test Method A or Test Method B, and the second
nearest 0.01 mm (0.001 in.) or better. phase of this test method is similar to the consolidation test
12.1.5 At the end of the test, measure the final mass and (Test Methods D2435). After the specimen comes to equilib-
water content for each specimen when it comes to equilibrium rium under a designated vertical stress (Test Method A) or
after wetting. Precautions need to be taken to avoid absorption vertical in-situ stress (Test Method B), inundate the specimen
of free test water in the process of removing the specimen from to measure its swell or collapse deformation. After the speci-
the testing apparatus. Before load is taken off, remove the test men comes to equilibrium, apply additional loads in time
water from the consolidometer using a suction device. Using increments like the standard consolidation test, (Test Methods
filter paper, remove free test water that may be on top of the D2435). The initial loading, inundating, and the subsequent
load plate, the edges and sides of the consolidometer ring, and loading sequence are depicted in natural scale in Fig. 5.
the bottom of the container holding the ring. Then remove the
vertical load off the specimen rapidly, take the specimen out 13. Calculations
and wipe out free test water on top and bottom of the specimen
13.1 Calculations are only shown in SI units. Inch-pound
using a filter paper before weighing and oven-drying the
units are permissible provided that each system is used
specimen.
independently throughout the calculations. See 1.8 for addi-
12.2 Test Method B: tional comments on the use of inch-pound units.
12.2.1 Assemble the intact specimen in a consolidometer
13.2 From the measured specimen height, diameter, mass,
and apply a seating pressure of 1 kPa (20 lbf/ft2), including the
water content, and specific gravity of solids, compute the initial
mass of the top porous disk and load plate. Set the dial
dry density and initial degree of saturation for each specimen:
indicator or any other deformation measuring device to zero for
the initial reading. M
ρ1 5 (4)
12.2.2 In order to evaluate the degree of disturbance of the V
specimen, load the specimen in increments up to a vertical ρ1
ρ d1 5 (5)
stress equal to the in-situ vertical stress at sampling depth. Use 11w 1

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 D4546 − 14´1
100·w 1 ·G s ·ρ d1 stress of 1 kPa (20 lbf/ft2), and the swell pressure, the stress
S1 5 (6)
G s ·ρ w 2 ρ d1 corresponding to zero strain. Record these values to the nearest
1.0 kPa or 10.0 lbf/ft2.
where:
M = specimen mass, g (nearest 0.01), 14. Report: Test Data Sheet(s)/Form(s)
V = specimen volume, cm3 (nearest 0.01), 14.1 The methodology used to specify how data are re-
ρ1 = bulk or wet density, g/cm3 or Mg/m3 (nearest 0.001), corded on the test data sheet(s)/form(s), as given below, is
ρd1 = dry density, g/cm3 or Mg/m3 (nearest 0.001),
covered in 1.9 and Practice D6026.
w1 = initial water content, decimal format (nearest 0.0001),
S1 = initial degree of saturation, % (nearest 0.01), 14.2 Record as a minimum the following general informa-
ρw = density of water at 20°C, g/cm3 or Mg/m3 (nearest tion (data):
0.001), and 14.2.1 Sample identification information including Project
Gs = specific gravity of solids of reconstituted or intact No., Boring No., Sample No., Depth.
specimens (nearest 0.001). 14.2.2 Test number, testing date(s), apparatus identification,
13.3 Using the corrected deformation readings, for each and technician’s initials.
specimen compute the following quantities: 14.2.3 Test method (A, B, or C).
14.2.4 Description and classification of the soil in accor-
h 1 5 h 2 ∆h 1 (7)
dance with Practices D2488 or D2487. Specific gravity of
h 2 5 h 1 1∆h 2 for swell (8) solids, including the oversize particles, if any, Atterberg limits,
h 2 5 h 1 2 ∆h 2 for collapse (9) and grain-size distribution should also be recorded when
available, plus the source of such information if other than
h
ρ d2 5 ρ d1 · (10) measurements obtained on the test specimen, Also note occur-
h2
rence and approximate size of isolated large particles.
100·w 2 ·G s ·ρ d2 14.2.5 Preparation process, such as removal of oversize
S2 5 (11)
G s ·ρ w 2 ρ d2 particles, if any, for reconstituted specimens.
where: 14.2.6 Method of preparation of reconstituted specimens,
including the number of layers and method of compaction.
h = initial height of specimen, mm (nearest 0.025) or in.
14.2.7 Visual evidence, if any, of disturbance of intact
(nearest 0.001),
∆h1 = specimen compression after stress application and specimens.
immediately prior to wetting, mm (nearest 0.0025), 14.2.8 Source and type of test water used to inundate
h1 = specimen height immediately prior to wetting, mm specimens.
(nearest 0.025), 14.3 Record as a minimum the following test specimen
∆h2 = change in specimen height: swell or collapse caused data:
by wetting, mm (nearest 0.025), 14.3.1 Initial height, h, height after dry loading, h1, and final
h2 = final specimen height after wetting, mm (nearest height, h2, for each specimen tested.
0.025), 14.3.2 Initial mass and final mass for each specimen tested.
ρd2 = final dry density, g/cm3 or Mg/m3 (nearest 0.001), 14.3.3 Initial and the final water contents, dry densities and
S2 = final degree of saturation, % (nearest 0.01), degrees of saturation for each specimen tested.
Gs = specific gravity of solids of reconstituted or intact 14.3.4 The dates, times, stress values, the stress value at
specimens (nearest 0.001), and inundation, and the strain values throughout the test.
w2 = final water content expressed as a decimal (nearest 14.3.5 From a smooth curve fitted to the test data, similar to
0.0001). Fig. 3, determine and record the magnitudes of swell pressure
13.3.1 Typically, degrees of saturation will be less than (to the nearest 1 kPa or 10 lbf/ft2), and the magnitude of the
100 % because inundation in the laboratory does not produce free swell strain (to 0.1 %).
100 % saturation of an unsaturated soil (1, 2). 14.3.6 The water content, dry density, and bulk (wet)
13.4 Compute swell/collapse strains to the nearest 0.1 %: density of the fine fraction.
100∆h 2 14.4 Graphical Presentations: Plot the test results in figures
εs 5 (12) similar to Fig. 3, Fig. 4, or Fig. 5, depending on the type of the
h1
test. Figures can be presented in either SI units or inch-pound
2100∆h 2
εc 5 (13) units. Plotting the results is necessary for interpretation of the
h1
values of swell pressure and free swell; it is optional for other
where: purposes.
εs = swell strain, %, shown as positive (nearest 0.1 %), and 15. Precision and Bias
εc = collapse strain, %, shown as negative (nearest 0.1 %).
15.1 Precision—Test data on precision is not presented due
13.5 For Test Method A, plot wetting-induced swell and to the nature of the soil materials tested by this standard. It is
collapse strains versus vertical stress as shown in Fig. 3. either not feasible or too costly at this time to have ten or more
13.6 From the swell/collapse strain plot (Fig. 3) read the laboratories participate in a round-robin testing program. Also,
free swell value, the swell strain corresponding to a vertical it is either not feasible or too costly to produce multiple

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 D4546 − 14´1
specimens that have uniform physical properties. Any variation 16. Keywords
observed in the data is just as likely to be due to specimen 16.1 collapse; compression; expansive soil; free swell;
variation as to operator or laboratory testing variation. heave; hydrocompression; laboratory tests; settlement; swell;
15.1.1 Subcommittee D18.05 is seeking any data from users
swell pressure
of the test method that might be used to make a limited
statement on precision.
15.2 Bias—There is no accepted reference value for this test
method, therefore, bias cannot be determined.

REFERENCES

(1) Noorany, I., and Stanley, J. V., “Settlement of Compacted Fills Caused in the Collapse-Swelling of Soils at the Laboratory,” Proc. 5th Int’l.
by Wetting,” Proc. Vertical and Horizontal Deformations of Founda- Conf. on Expansive Soils, Adelaide, 1984, pp. 67–71.
tions and Embankments, ASCE, Vol 2, ASCE Settlement ‘94 (4) Noorany, I., “Stress Ratio Effects on Collapse of Compacted Clayey
Conference, College Station, TX, June 1994, pp. 1516–1530. Sand,” Discussion, Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, ASCE, Vol
(2) Noorany, I., and Houston, S. L., “Effect of Oversize Particles on Swell 118, No. 9, September 1992.
and Compression of Compacted Unsaturated Soils,” Geotechnical (5) Houston, S. L., and Houston, W. N., “Collapsible Soils Engineering,”
Special Publication No. 56, Static and Dynamic Properties of Grav- Geotechnical Special Publication No. 68, Unsaturated Soil Engineer-
elly Soils, ASCE, New York, NY, 1995, pp. 107–121. ing Practice, ASCE, New York, NY, 1997, pp. 199–232.
(3) Justo, J. L., Delgado, A., and Luiz, J., “The Influence of Stress-Path

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee D18 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(D4546 – 08) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved March 1, 2014.)

(1) Revised title of standard by deleting the word “cohesive” (3) Designated Method A for reconstituted specimens and
because the standard applies to all types of soils. Method B for intact specimens.
(2) Modified units of measurement and all equations to SI with (4) Revised standard throughout.
inch-pound equivalents throughout.

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