DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a

Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

DESIGNATION: D6938 – 17a

Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Aggregate by
Nuclear Methods (Shallow Depth)
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6938; The number immediately following the
designation indicates the year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of the last
revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of the last re-approval. A superscript epsilon ( ε
) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1 | Scope
1.1 This test method describes the procedures for measuring the in situ density and moisture of soil
and soil aggregates using nuclear equipment (hereinafter referred to as "meter"). Material density
can be measured by direct transmission, backscatter, or backscatter/air gap ratio methods. Water
content (moisture) measurements are taken at the surface in backscatter mode regardless of which
mode is used for density.
1.1.1 For limitations, see Section 5 on Interference.
1.2 The total or wet density of soil and soil aggregates is measured by attenuation of gamma
radiation where, in direct transmission, the source is placed at a known depth of up to 300 mm (12
in.) and the detector (is ) remains on the surface (some meters can reverse this orientation); or in
backscatter or backscatter/air gap, the source and detectors remain at the surface.
1.2.1 The density of the test sample in mass per unit volume is calculated by comparing the rate of
detected gamma radiation with previously established calibration data.
1.2.2 The dry density of the test sample is obtained by subtracting the mass of water per unit
volume from the wet density of the test sample (Section 11). Most meters display this value directly.
1.3 The meter is calibrated to read the mass of water per unit volume of soil or soil aggregate.
When divided by the density of water and then multiplied by 100, the mass of water per unit volume
is equivalent to the volumetric water content. The mass of water per unit volume is determined by
the thermalization or deceleration of fast neutrons by hydrogen, a component of water. The neutron
source and thermal neutron detector are located on the surface of the material being tested. The
most prevalent water content in engineering and construction activities is known as the gravimetric
water content, w, and is the ratio between the mass of water in the pore spaces and the total mass
of solids, expressed as a percentage.
1.4 Two alternative procedures are provided.
1.4.1 Procedure A describes the direct drive method in which the probe extends through the base of
the meter into a preformed hole to the desired depth. Direct transmission is the preferred method.
1.4.2 Procedure B involves the use of a dedicated backscatter meter or probe in the backscatter
position. This places the gamma and neutron sources and detectors in the same plane.
1.4.3 Mark the test area to allow placement of the meter over the test site and aligning the probe
with the hole.
1.5 SI Units — Values indicated in SI units should be considered standard. Values in inch-pound
units (foot-pound units) are provided for information only.
1.6 All observed and calculated values must comply with the guidance for significant digits and
rounding established in Practice D6026.
1.6.1 The procedures used to specify how data is collected, recorded and calculated in this standard

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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

are considered the industry standard. Additionally, they are representative of the significant digits
that generally must be retained. The procedures used do not consider material variation, the
purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies or any consideration for the user's
objectives; and it is common practice to increase or decrease significant digits of reported data to be
consistent with these considerations. It is beyond the scope of this standard to consider significant
digits used in analysis methods for engineering design.
1.7 This standard is not intended to address all safety issues, 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.
1.8 This international standard was developed in accordance with the internationally recognized
standardization principles set out in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International
Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT)
Committee of the World Trade Organization.

2 | reference documents
2.1 ASTM Standards: 2
D653 Terminology Related to Soil, Rocks, and Contained Fluids
D698 Test Methods for Laboratory Soil Compaction Characteristics Using Standard Stress (12,400
ft-lbf/ft3 (600 kN-m/m3))
D1556 Test Method for Density and Unit Weight of Soil in Place by Sand Method With e
D1557 Test Methods for Laboratory Soil Compaction Characteristics Using Modified Stress (56,000
ft-lbf/ft3 (2,700 kN-m/m3))
D2167 Test Method for Density and Unit Weight of Soil in Place by Rubber Balloon Method
D2487 Practice for Soil Classification for Engineering Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System)
Practice D2488 for the description and identification of soils (visual manual procedures)
D2216 Test methods for laboratory determination of water (moisture) content of soil and rock by
mass
D2937 Test Method for Determining In-Situ Soil Density by Drive Cylinder Method
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of
Soils and Rocks as Used in Engineering Design and Construction
D4253 Test Methods for Maximum Index Density and Unit Weight of Soils Using a Vibrating Table
D4254 Test methods for minimum density index and unit weight of soils and calculation of relative
density
D4643 Test Method for Determination of Water Content of Soil and Rock by Microwave Oven
Heating
D4718 Practice for correcting unit weight and water content for soils containing large particles
D4944 Test Method for Field Determination of Soil Water (Moisture) Content by Calcium Carbide
Gas Pressure Gauge
D4959 Test Method for Determination of Soil Water Content by Direct Heating

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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

Practice D6026 for the use of significant digits in geotechnical data

D7013 Guide for Nuclear Surface Moisture and Density Meter Calibration Facility Setup
D7759 Guide for Calibration of Nuclear Surface Density and Moisture Meters
3 | Terminology
3.1 Definitions: See Terminology D653 for general definitions.
3.2 Definitions of terms specific to this standard:
3.2.1 nuclear meter: device containing one or more radioactive sources that is used to measure
certain properties of soil and its aggregates.
3.2.2 gamma (radiation) source: A sealed source of radioactive material that emits gamma radiation
as it decays.
3.2.3 neutron (radiation) source: A sealed source of radioactive material that emits neutron
radiation as it decays.
3.2.4 Compton Scattering: The interaction between a gamma ray (photon) and an orbital electron
where the gamma ray loses energy and bounces in a different direction.
3.2.5 detector: device for detecting and measuring radiation.
3.2.6 gravimetric water content — same as water content (as defined in Terminology D653), a
nomenclature used in some scientific fields to differentiate it from volumetric water content.
3.2.7 thermalization: the process of "slowing down" fast neutrons through collisions with lightweight
atoms, such as hydrogen.
3.2.8 volumetric water content: the volume of water as a percentage of the total volume of soil or
rock material.
3.2.9 test count, n: the measured output of a detector for a specific type of radiation for a given test.
3.2.10 prepared blocks: prepared blocks of soil, solid rock, concrete and engineering materials,
which have characteristics of various degrees of reproducible uniformity.

4 | importance and use

4.1 The test method described is useful as a rapid, non-destructive technique for in situ
measurements of wet density and water content of soil and soil aggregates and determination of dry
density.

4.2 The test method is used for quality control and acceptance testing of compacted soils and soil-
aggregate mixtures used in construction and also for research and development. The non-
destructive nature allows for repetitive measurements at a single test location and statistical analysis
of the results.

4.3 Density: The fundamental assumptions inherent in the methods are that Compton scattering is
the dominant interaction and that the material is homogeneous.

4.4 Water Content: The fundamental assumptions inherent in the test method are that the hydrogen
ions present in the soil or soil aggregate are in the form of water as defined by the water content
derived from Test Methods D2216, and that the material is homogeneous. (See 5.2)

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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

NOTE 1 — The quality of the result produced by this standard test method depends on the
competence of the personnel performing it and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used.
Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent
and objective testing/sampling/inspections, and the like. Users of this standard are cautioned that
compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself guarantee reliable results. Reliable results depend
on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means to evaluate some of those factors.

5 | Interference

5.1 In situ density interferences

5.1.1 Measurements can be affected by the chemical composition of the material being tested.

5.1.2 Measurements may be affected by inhomogeneous soils and surface textures (see 10.2).
Excessive voids in the prepared test surface below the meter may cause density measurements
lower than the actual density of the soil. Excessive use of filler material to compensate for these
voids can also cause biased density measurements, or biased water content measurements, or
both.

5.1.3 Measurements in backscatter mode are more influenced by the density and water content of
the material in the vicinity of the surface.

5.1.4 Direct transmission mode measurements are an average of the density from the bottom of the
probe in the soil or soil aggregate to the surface of the meter.

5.1.5 Gravel particles or large gaps in the source detector path can cause higher or lower density
measurements. Where soil non-uniformity due to layering, aggregates or voids is suspected, the test
site should be excavated and visually examined to determine whether the test material is
representative of the overall in situ material and whether a large correction is required. in
accordance with practice D4718.
5.1.6 Large particles or large gaps in the source detector path can cause higher or lower density
measurements. Where non-uniformity is suspected in the soil due to layering, aggregates or voids,
the test site should be excavated and visually examined to determine whether the test material is
representative of the overall in situ material and whether oversizing correction is required. in
accordance with practice D4718.
5.1.7 The measured volume is approximately 0.0028 m3 (0.10 ft3) for backscatter mode and 0.0057
m3 (0.20 ft3) for direct transmission mode when the test depth is 150 mm (6 in. .). The actual
measured volume is indeterminate and varies with the apparatus and the density of the material.
5.1.8 Other radioactive sources should be no closer than 30 feet (9 m) to operating equipment.
5.2 Interferences of water content (humidity) at the site
5.2.1 The chemical composition of the material being tested may affect the measurement and
adjustments may be necessary (see Section 10.6). Hydrogen in forms other than water and carbon
will cause measurements to exceed the true value. Some chemical elements such as boron,
chlorine and cadmium will cause measurements to be lower than the actual value.
5.2.2 The water content measured by this test method is not necessarily the average water content
within the volume of the sample involved in the measurement. Since this measurement is by
backscatter in all cases, the value is biased by the water content of the material closest to the
surface. The volume of soil and soil aggregate represented in the measurement is indeterminate and
will vary with the water content of the material. In general, the higher the water content of the

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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

material, the smaller the volume involved in the measurement. Approximately 50% of the typical
measurement results from the water content of the upper 50 to 75 mm (2 to 3 in.).
5.2.3 Other neutron sources should be no closer than 30 feet (9 m) to operating equipment.
6 | Apparatus
6.1 Nuclear Density/Moisture Meter: Although the exact construction details of the apparatus may
vary, the system must consist of:
6.1.1 Gamma source: A sealed source of high-energy gamma radiation, such as cesium or radium.
6.1.2 Gamma detector: Any type of gamma detector, such as a Geiger-Mueller tube(s).
6.1.3 Fast neutron source: A sealed mixture of a radioactive material such as americium, radium,
and a target material such as beryllium, or a neutron emitter such as californium-252.
6.1.4 Slow neutron detector: Any type of slow neutron detector, such as boron trifluoride or helium-3
proportional counter.
6.2 Reference Standard: A block of material used to verify instrument performance, correct source
deterioration, and establish conditions for a reproducible reference count rate.
6.3 Site Preparation Device: A plate, ruler or other suitable leveling tool that can be used to level
the test site as smoothly as required and, in the direct drive method, guide the drive pin to prepare a
perpendicular hole.

6.4 Drive Pin: A pin slightly larger in diameter than the probe on the direct drive instrument that is
used to prepare a hole in the test site for inserting the probe.

6.4.1 Drive Pin Guide – An accessory that keeps the drive pin perpendicular to the test site. It is
generally part of the site preparation device.

6.5 Hammer: Heavy enough to drive the pin to the required depth without undue distortion of the
hole.

6.6 Drive Pin Remover: A tool that can be used to remove the drive pin in a vertical direction so that
the pin does not distort the hole in the removal process.

6.7 The slide hammer, with a drive pin attached, can also be used both to prepare a hole in the
material to be tested and to extract the pin without distorting the hole.

6.8 Probe, a long, thin device, part of the meter, that is inserted into the soil that the meter is
measuring. This device may contain a radioactive source, a radiation detection device, or both.
Probes containing only one radioactive source are commonly called "source rods."

7 | Risks

7.1 These meters use radioactive materials that can be dangerous to the health of users unless
proper precautions are taken. Users of these meters should familiarize themselves with applicable
safety procedures and government regulations.

7.2 Effective user instructions, along with routine safety procedures and knowledge of and
compliance with Regulatory Requirements, are a mandatory part of the operation and storage of
these meters.

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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

8 | Calibration
8.1 Meter calibration must be performed in accordance with Guides D7013 and D7759.

9 | Standardization

9.1 Nuclear moisture density meters are subject to long-term aging of radioactive sources, which
can change the relationship between count rates and material density and water content. To correct
for this aging effect, meters are calibrated as a ratio of the measurement count rate to a count rate
performed on a reference standard or an air-gap count (for the backscatter/air-gap ratio method).

9.2 Meter standardization must be performed at the beginning of each day's use, and a record of
this data must be maintained for as long as necessary to ensure compliance with subsection 9.2.3 or
Annex A3, as applicable. Perform standardization with the meter located at least 9 m (30 ft) away
from other nuclear moisture density meters and free of large bodies of water or other elements that
could affect reference count rates.

9.2.1 Turn on the meter and allow stabilization according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

9.2.2 Using the reference standard, take a reading that is at least four times the length of a normal
measurement period (where a normal measurement period is typically one minute) to constitute a
standardization check.

9.2.3 When available, use the meter manufacturer's recommended procedure to establish
compliance of the standard measurement with the accepted range. Without specific
recommendations from the meter manufacturer, use the procedure described in Annex A3.

9.2.4 If for any reason the measured density or humidity becomes suspect during the day's use,
perform another standardization check.

10 | Procedure

10.1 When possible, select a test location where the meter will be placed at least 600 mm (24.0 in.)
from any object that sits or projects on the surface of the test location, when the presence of this
object has the potential to modify the meter. answer. Whenever a measurement must be made at a
specific location and the aforementioned clearance cannot be achieved, such as in a trench, follow
the meter manufacturer's correction procedures.

10.2 Prepare the test site as follows:

10.2.1 Remove all loose and disturbed material and additional material as necessary to expose the
true surface of the material to be tested.

10.2.2 Prepare an area of sufficient size to accommodate the meter, leveling or scraping the area to
a smooth condition to obtain maximum contact between the meter and the material being tested.

10.2.3 The maximum void depth below the gauge should not exceed 3 mm (1/8 in.). Use native
material that does not contain gravel or fine sand to fill the gaps and then smooth the surface with
the site preparation device or other suitable tool. The depth of fill should not exceed approximately 3
mm (1/8 in.).

10.2.4 Placing the meter on the surface of the material to be tested is critical for accurate density
measurements. The optimal condition is full contact between the bottom surface of the meter and
the surface of the material being tested. The total filled area should not exceed approximately 10

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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

percent of the bottom area of the meter.

10.3 Turn on and allow the meter to stabilize (warm up) according to the manufacturer's
recommendations (see Section 9.2.1).

10.4 Procedure A - The direct transmission procedure:

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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

10.4.1 Select a test location where the meter in the test position is at least 150 mm (6 inches) away
from any vertical projection.

10.4.2 Make a hole perpendicular to the prepared surface using (a) the drive pin guide, the guide
pin puller, a hammer and the drive pin, or (b) a slide hammer. The hole must be a minimum of 50
mm (2 in.) deeper than the desired measurement depth and of such an alignment that insertion of
the probe will not cause the gauge to tilt from the plane of the prepared area.

10.4.3 Mark the test area to allow placement of the meter over the test site and to align the probe
with the hole. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations if applicable.

10.4.4 Remove the hole former carefully to avoid distortion of the hole, damage to the surface, or
loose material falling into the hole.

NOTE 2 — Care should be taken in preparing the access hole in uniform cohesionless granular
soils. Measurements can be affected by damage to the density of surrounding materials as the hole
forms.

10.4.5 Place the meter on the material to be tested, ensuring maximum contact with the surface as
described above in 10.2.4.

10.4.6 Lower the probe into the hole to the desired test depth. Pull the meter gently toward the
back, or end of the detector, so that the back of the probe is in intimate contact with the side of the
hole in the gamma measurement path.

NOTE 3 — As a safety precaution, it is recommended that a probe containing radioactive sources

not be extended outside its protected position before being placed at the test site. Where possible,
align the manometer to allow the probe to be placed directly into the test hole from the protected
position.

10.4.7 Keep all other radioactive sources at least 9 m (30 ft) away from the meter to avoid any
effect on the measurement.

10.4.8 If the gauge is so equipped, set the depth dial to the same depth as the probe.

10.4.9 Secure and record one or more one-minute density and water content readings. Read the
wet density in place directly or determine one by using the previously established calibration curve
or table.

10.4.10 Read the water content directly or determine the water content by using the previously
established calibration curve or table.

10.5 Procedure B – Backscatter or Backscatter Procedure/Air Gap Ratio:

10.5.1 Seat the gauge firmly (see Note 2).

10.5.2 Keep all other radioactive sources at least 9 m (30 ft) away from the meter to avoid affecting
the measurement.

10.5.3 Place the meter in the backscatter (BS) position.

10.5.4 Secure and record one or more sets of one-minute density and water content readings.
When using the backscatter/air gap ratio mode, follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding
meter settings. Take the same number of readings during the normal measurement period in the air
gap position as in the
Page 8 of 18
DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

standard backscatter. Calculate the air gap ratio by dividing the counts per minute obtained at the air
gap position by the counts per minute obtained at the standard position. Many meters have built-in
provisions to automatically calculate air gap ratio and wet density.
10.5.5 Read the wet density on site or determine one by using the previously established calibration
curve or table.
10.5.6 Read the water content or determine one by using the calibration curve or table established
previously (see Section 10.6).
NOTE 4 — Gauge measurements acquired using Procedure A or Procedure B produce density and
water content values for the material under test. It is good practice to record meter density and water
counts corresponding to the density and water values at the time of measurement in case data
recording errors or probe depth errors are of concern. .
10.6 Correction of water content and correction of large particles
10.6.1 For proper use of the meter and accurate values of both water content and dry density, both
corrections should be made where appropriate. Before using the meter-derived water content on any
new material, the value should be verified by comparing it to another ASTM method, such as Test
Methods D2216, D4643, D4944, or D4959. As part of a user-developed procedure, occasional
samples should be taken from below the meter and comparison tests performed to confirm water
content values derived from the meter. All meter manufacturers have a procedure for correcting
meter-derived water content values.
10.6.2 When large particles are present, the meter can be rotated about the probe axis to obtain
additional readings as a check. When there is any doubt about the presence of these particles, it is
advisable to take a sample of the material below the meter to verify the presence and relative
proportion of large particles. A rock correction can then be made for both water content and wet
density using the method of Practice D4718.
10.6.3 When sampling for water content correction or oversized particle correction, the sample
should be taken from an area directly below the meter. The zone size is approximately 200 mm (8
in.) in diameter and a depth equal to the depth setting of the probe when using direct drive mode; or
approximately 75 mm (3 in.) deep when using backscatter mode.

11 | Calculation of results
11.1 Determine the wet density:
11.1.1 On most pressure gauges, read the value directly in kg/m3 (lbm/ft3). If the density reading is
in "counts", determine the wet density at the location by using this reading and the calibration curve
or table previously established for the density.
11.1.2 Record the density to the nearest 1 kg/m3 (0.1 lbm/ft3).
11.2 Water content:
11.2.1 Use the meter reading for w if the meter is converted to that value.
11.2.2 If the meter determines the mass of water per unit volume in kg/m3 (lbm/ft3kk, calculate w
using the formula:
where:
w = water content g
w=""p, (1)
ρd = dry density in kg/m3 or (lbm/ft3),
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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

ρ = wet density in kg/m3 or (lbm/ft3) and (2)

Mm = mass of water per unit volume in kg/m3 or (lbm/ft3)
11.2.3 If the water content reading was in "counts", determine the mass of water per unit volume
using this reading and the previously established calibration curve or table. Then convert to
gravimetric water content according to 11.2.2.
11.2.4 Record the water content to the nearest 0.1%.
11.3 Determine the dry density of the soil by one of the following methods:
11.3.1 If the water content is obtained by nuclear methods, use the meter readings directly for the
dry density in kg/m3 (lbm/ft3). The value can also be calculated from:

P.=pM, (3)
11.3.2 If the water content is to be determined from a soil sample taken as indicated in (10.6.3),
follow the procedures and perform the calculations for the chosen Test Method (D2216, D4643,
D4944 or D4959).
11.3.3 With a water content value of 11.3.2, calculate the dry density from:
100 xp
Pa5100+w (4)
11.3.4 Report the dry density to the nearest 1 kg/m3 (0.1 lbm/ft3).
11.4 Determine the percentage of compaction:
11.4.1 It may be convenient to express the in-place dry density as a percentage of the laboratory
density, such as test methods D698, D1557, D4253, or D4254. This ratio can be calculated by
dividing the in situ dry density by the maximum laboratory dry density and multiplying by 100.
Procedures for calculating relative density are provided in Test Method D4254, which requires Test
Method D4253 to also be performed. Corrections for oversized material, if necessary, should be
made in accordance with Practice D4718.

12 | Report: Test Data Sheet(s)/Form(s)/Final Report(s)

12.1 Field data records must include, at a minimum, the following:
12.1.1 Test number or test ID.
12.1.2 Test location (e.g. station number or GPS or coordinates or other identifiable information).
12.1.3 Visual description of the tested material.

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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

12.1.4 Elevation number or elevation or depth.

12.1.5 Name of the operators.
12.1.6 Make, model, and serial number of the test meter.
12.1.7 Test mode, Method A (direct transmission and test depth) or Method B (backscatter,
backscatter/air gap),
12.1.8 Standardization and adjustment data for the testing date.
12.1.9 Any corrections made to the reported values and the reasons for these corrections (i.e.
large particles, water content).
12.1.10 Maximum laboratory density value in kg/m3 or lbm/ft3.
12.1.11 Dry density in kg/m3 or lbm/ft3.
12.1.12 Wet density in kg/m3 or lbm/ft3.
12.1.13 Water content in percentage.
12.1.14 Compaction percentage.
12.2 Final report (minimum information required):
12.2.1 Test number.
12.2.2 Meter serial number.
12.2.3 Test location (e.g. station number or GPS or coordinates or other identifiable information).
12.2.4 Elevation number or elevation or depth.
12.2.5 Moisture (water) content as a percentage.
12.2.6 Maximum laboratory density value in kg/m3 or lbm/ft3.
12.2.7 Dry density result in kg/m3 or lbm/ft3.
12.2.8 Compaction percentage.
12.2.9 Name of the operators.

13 | Precision and Tendency

13.1 Precision:
13.1.1 Precision: Wet Density: Criteria for judging the acceptability of wet density test results
obtained by this test method are given in Table 1. 3 Values given are based on an interlaboratory
study in which five testing sites test containing soils, with wet densities as shown in column two were
tested by eight different nuclear meters and operators. The wet density of each test site was
measured three times with each device.
13.1.2 Precision: mass of water per unit volume: The criteria for judging the acceptability of the
mass of water per unit volume of the results obtained by this test method are given in Table 2. The
values given are based on an interlaboratory study in which five
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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

Testing Sites containing soils with mass of water per unit volume, as shown in column two, were
tested by eight different nuclear meters and operators. The mass of water per unit volume of each
test site was measured three times with each device.

13.1.3 Precision: water content: The criteria for judging the acceptability of the water content results
obtained by this test method are given in Table 3. The values given are based on an interlaboratory
study in which five test sites containing soils, with water content shown in column two, were tested
by eight different nuclear meters and operators. The water content of each test site was measured
three times with each device.

13.2 Bias:

1 3.2.1 There are no accepted reference values for these test methods, therefore bias cannot be
determined.

______________________________________TABLE 1 Results of Statistical Analysis (Wet Density) 4

Direct Transmission:
Material® Average kg/m? or (lbmft Repeatability Reproducibility 95 % Repeatability Limit on 95% Reproducibility Limit on the
3) Standard Deviation kg/m Standard Deviation kg'm 3 the Difference Difference
3
or (lbmt?) or (Ibmlt 3 ) Between Two Between Two
Test Results Test Results
kg'm 3 or (lbm/ft 3 ) c kg/m 3 or (bmtf®)C

M.L. 2084(130.1) 7.4 (0.46) 12.3 (0.77) 21 (1.3) 34 (2.1)

CL 1837 (114.7) 5.4 (0.34) 10.6 (0.66) 15 (0.9) 30 (1.9)

SP 1937 (120.9) 4.2 (0.26) 11.0 (0.68) 12 (0.7) 31 (1.9)

Backscatter
Material® Average Repeatability Reproducibility Standard
kg/m or (Ibmft 3) 95 % Repeatability Limit on
Standard Deviation kg/m Deviation kg/m 3 or (lbm/ft 3 )
3 the Difference Between Two 95 % Reproducibility Limit on the
or (bmft?)
Test Results kg'm 3 or (Ibmlt 3 Difference Between Two Test
)C Results kg/m 3 or (Ibmt?)0

M.L. 1997 (124.6) 16.0(1.00) 32.0 (2.00) 45 (2.8) 90 (5.6)

3
Supporting data has been on file at ASTM International headquarters and can be obtained by requesting
Research Report RR: D18-1004.

A The data used to establish this statement of accuracy is contained in a Research Report available from
ASTM headquarters.

B The materials are distinguished by soil types. For definitions of soil types, see Practices D2487 and D2488.

C Two separate readings at a single location with constant meter orientation and adjustments.
A
TABLE 2 Results of the statistical analysis (mass of water per unit of volume)
3
Material Average kg/m or Repeatability Reproducibility Standard
0
[lbm/ft 3 ) Standard Deviation Deviation 95 % Repeatability Limit
kg/m 3 or (lbm/ft 3 ) kglm?'or(bmt?) on the Difference 95 % Reproducibility Limit on
Between Two Test the Difference Between Two
Results kgmor(bmt?° Test Results kg/mPor(bmit?e
M.L. 313(19.6) 57(0.36, 8.1 (0.50) 16(1.0) 23(1.4)
CL 193(12.1] 6.1 (0.38] 8.5(0.53) 17(1.1) 24(1.5)
SP 320 (20.0) 43(027) 10.3(0.64) 12(0.7) 29(1.8)
A
The data used to establish this statement of accuracy is contained in a Research Report available from ASTM
headquarters.
8
The materials are distinguished by soil types. For definitions of soil types, see Practices D2487 and D2488.

C Two separate readings at a single location with constant meter orientation and adjustments.

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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

TABLE 3 Results of statistical analysis (% water content) A

0
Material Average Repealability Reproducibility 05% Repeatability Limit 95% Reproducibility Limit
% Standard Deviation % Standard Deviation % on the Difference on the Difference Between
Between Two Two Test Results %
Test Results
%
M.L. 177 0.39 0.50 1.1 1.7
CL 11.8 0.40 0.58 1.1 1.8
SP 19.8 0.32 0.81 0.9 2.3
A
The data used to establish this statement of accuracy is contained in a Research Report available from ASTM
headquarters.
9
The materials are distinguished by soil types. For definitions of soil types, see Practices D2487 and D2488.
C
Two separate readings at a single location with constant meter orientation and adjustments

ANNEXES

(Mandatory information)
A1. METER ACCURACY

A1.1 Gauge accuracy is defined as the change in density or mass of water per unit volume that
occurs corresponding to a one standard deviation change in count due to random decay of the
radioactive source. The density of the material and the time period of the count must be indicated.
Calculate using the methods in A1.1.1 or A1.1.2. For wet density, use a material that has a density
of 2000 ± 80 kg/m3 (125.0 ± 5.0 lbm/ft3). Typical P values are <10 kg/m3 (0.6 lbm/ft3) in backscatter
or backscatter/air gap; and <5 kg/m3 (0.3 lbm/ft3) for direct transmission measured at a depth of 15
cm (6 in). Use a mass of water per unit volume value of 160 ± 10 kg/m3 (10.0 ± 0.6 lbm/ft3) to
determine slope and count rates. The P value is usually less than 4.8 kg/m3 (0.3 lbm/ft3).

A1.1.1 Gauge Precision - Slope Method Determine the system gauge precision, P, from the slope of
the calibration curve, S, and the standard deviation, σ, of the signals (detected gamma rays or
detected neutrons ) in counts per minute. (cpm), as follows:

where:
P = precision σ = standard deviation, cpm
S = slope, cpm/kg/m3 or cpm/lbm/ft3
NOTE A1.1 — Displayed meter counts can be scaled. Contact for proper prescaling factor.
A1.1.2 Meter Accuracy - Repetitive Method Determine the standard deviation of a minimum of 20
repetitive readings of one minute each, without moving the meter between readings. Calculate the
standard deviation of the resulting readings. This is the precision of the caliber.
A2.1 Calibration should be verified before testing on materials that are clearly different from the
types of materials previously used to obtain or adjust the calibration. Sample materials can be

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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

selected by either of the following two methods:

A2.1.1 Prepare containers of compacted material with a water content determined by oven drying
(Test Method D2216) and a wet density calculated from the mass of the material and the internal
dimensions of the container. The mass of water per unit volume can be calculated as follows:

p xw
M
- = 100+ w (A2.1)

where:
Mm = mass of water per unit volume, kg/m3 or lbm/ft3,
w = water content, percentage of dry mass and
ρ = wet density (total), kg/m3 or lbm/ft3.
A2.1.2 Where none of the above calibration standards are available, the meter may be calibrated
using a minimum of three test sites selected in an area of a Compaction Project where the material
has been placed at several different water contents. Test locations shall represent the range of
water content over which the calibration will be used. At least three repeated nuclear measurements
will be performed at each test site.
Density at each site shall be verified by measurements with calibrated equipment in accordance with
the procedures described in this standard, Test Methods D1556, D2167, or D2937. The water
content of the material at each of the test locations will be determined using Test Method D2216.
Use the mean value of the replicate readings as the calibration point value for each test site.
A2.2 The amount of water must be within 62% of the water content established as optimal for the
compaction of these materials. Determine the water content w. A microwave oven or direct heater
may be used to dry materials that are not sensitive to the combustion of organic material in addition
to the method listed in A2.1.2. A minimum of three comparisons is recommended and the average of
the observed differences is used as a correction factor.
A2.3 Containers of compacted material taken from the test site shall be prepared in accordance with
A2.1.1.
A2.4 Test sites or compacted material shall be selected in accordance with the procedures of
A2.1.2.
A2.5 The test method and procedures used to obtain the count rate to establish the error shall be
the same as those used to measure the water content of the material to be tested.
A2.6 The mean value of the difference between the water content of the test samples as determined
in A2.1.1 or A2.1.2 and the values measured with the meter shall be used as a correction for
measurements made in the field. Many meters using a microprocessor have provision for inputting a
correction factor that is established by the relative values of the water content as a percentage of the
dry density, thus eliminating the need to determine the difference in units of mass of water.
A3. EVALUATION OF THE STANDARDIZATION OF METERS
A3.1 The Poisson distribution of nuclear decay events, the half-life of the isotope used for
measurements, and other sources of electronic and mechanical variance contribute to the variability
and change in meter standardization counts over time .
A3.2 The purpose of the daily standardization count is twofold: to compensate for temporal effects
on the indicator count rate and to help identify unacceptable levels of change in the indicator

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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

response.
A3.3 The wet density and water mass properties per unit volume of the soil under test are
determined by first dividing the measurement count by the standardization count. The resulting
relationship is then used as the dependent variable in the calibration equation to determine the wet
density and water mass per unit volume of the soil.
A3.4 Because the relationship described in A3.3 is used to evaluate the aforementioned soil
properties, any source of multiplicative changes in the nuclear counting properties of the meter, such
as the decrease in source strength with time , cancels out and has little to no effect on the gauge
measurements.
A3.5 However, other phenomena can have additive or subtractive effects on the count rate, which
can bias counts and lead to inaccurate measurements by the meter.
A3.6 Daily standardization counts are initially evaluated as follows:
A3.6.1 The normalization count of density and water taken on a given day are compared to the
respective average of the four previous normalization counts.
A3.6.2 If the density standardization count falls within 61% of the average density count, then the
density standardization count is acceptable.
A3.6.3 If the normalization water count falls within 62% of the average water count, then the
normalization water count is acceptable.
A3.6.4 If any of the normalization counts do not meet these limits, it is usually because an excessive
amount of time has passed between consecutive normalization counts and decay of the natural
source prevents these criteria from being met. Evaluate the density standardization count and the
water standardization count as follows:
A3.7 If any of the standardization counts are outside the limits established by equation A3.1 and
equation A3.2, repeat the standardization check. If the second standardization check satisfies
equations A3.1 and A3.2, the meter is considered to be in satisfactory operating condition.

098/N,je#,2<N,2102/N,6#4,2 (A3.1)

0.98(N„Je“T<N,<1.02(N„Je't (A3.2)
where:
Td (1/2) = the half-life of the isotope used for density determination in the meter. For example, for
137Cs, the radioactive isotope most commonly used for density determination in these meters,
Td(1/2), is 11.023 days,
Tm (1/2) = the half-life of the isotope used for the determination of the water content in the meter.
For example, for 241Am, the radioactive isotope in Am:Be, the most commonly used radioactive
source for determination of water content in these meters, Tm(1/2), is 157.788 days,

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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

Ndc = the density system standardization count acquired at the time of the last calibration or
verification,
Nmc = the humidity system standardization count acquired at the time of last calibration or
verification,
Nd0 = the standardization count of the current density system,
Nm0 = the current humidity system standardization count,
t = the time that has passed between the current standardization test and the date of the last
calibration or verification. The units selected for t, Td(1/2) and Tm(1/2) must be consistent, that is, if
Td(1/2) is expressed in days, then t must also be expressed in days,
ln(2) = the natural logarithm of 2, which has a value of approximately 0.69315,
e = the inverse of the natural logarithm function, which has a value of approximately 2.71828.

A3.7.1 The limits of equations 1 and 2 are based on the exponential decay equation for isotopes of
known half-life. They provide a 62% range around the theoretical standardization count at the time of
reading based on the standardization count at the time of calibration. This range is based on the
expanded uncertainty of the meter counting response for a properly functioning meter.
A3.7.2 Calibration reports for these meters generally come with a table indicating the range of the
62% density standardization counts over a period of approximately one year after the time of
calibration.
A3.7.3 Example: A nuclear meter containing a 137Cs source for density determination (half-life =
11023 days) and a 241Am:Be source for humidity determination (half-life = 157788 days) is
calibrated March 1 of a year. At the time of calibration, the standard density count was 2800 counts
per minute (prescaled) and the standard moisture count was 720 counts per minute (prescaled).
Based on equation A3.1 and equation A3.2, what is the allowable range of standard counts for
November 1 of the same year?

A3.7.3.1 For this example, a total of 245 days have passed between the calibration or verification
date (March 1) and the meter standardization date (November 1). Therefore:

t = 245 days

Td(1/2) = 11023 days

Tm (1/2) = 157788 days

Ndc = 2800 accounts

Nmc = 720 counts

A3.7.3.2 According to equation A3.1, therefore, the lower limit for the standard density count taken
on November 1, denoted by Nd0, is:

A3.7.3.3 Likewise, the upper limit for the standard density count taken on November 1, denoted by
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DESIGNATION: D6938 -17a
Standard Test Methods for In Situ Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil: Added by
nuclear methods (shallow depth)

Nd0, is:

1.02(N_)eTj= 1.02(2800)eF*2= 2856e-001541= 2812 comm

A3.7.3.4 Therefore, the density standardization count acquired on November 1 must be between
2702 and 2812 counts, or 2702 ≤ Nd0 ≤ 2812.

A3.7.3.5 According to equation A3.2, the lower limit for the moisture standardization count taken on
November 1 is:

0.98(Nn)e t,m =0.98(720)^ 131.78 = 706? OcoIo8 = 705 counts

A3.7.3.6 Likewise, the upper limit for the standard moisture count taken on November 1, denoted by
Nd0, is:

1.02(N,)e=21 = 1.02(720)? 157 788 = 734e-000108 = 733 counts

A3.7.3.7 Therefore, the humidity standardization count acquired on November 1 must be between
705 and 733 counts, or 705 ≤ Nm0 ≤ 733.
A3.8 If one or both normalization counts do not meet the limits described in A3.6.2 and A3.6.3, and
furthermore one or both normalization counts do not meet the limits described in A3.7, the
functionality of the gauge and/or or the calibration accuracy may be compromised. In these
circumstances, the meter should be removed from service until the source of the discrepancy can be
identified and corrected. Repairs or modifications to the meter will require verification of the existing
meter calibration, or a meter calibration, as described in Guide D7759.

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