Significance and Use

The purpose of this test method is to standardize the procedure for determining fiber content of peat samples by dry mass.

A standard test method for determining the quantity of fibers in a peat sample is necessary not only for classifying samples (as in Classification D 4427 ), but is also a significant parameter in predicting or defining the many end uses of peat. In this regard, fiber content has been related to agricultural and horticultural end uses (such as mulching, soil enrichment, etc.), geotechnical measurements (such as strength, compressibility, permeability, etc.), industrial chemical uses (such as production of waxes, activated carbon, medicinals, etc.), and even energy uses (such as direct combustion, methanol production, gas yields, etc.).

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the laboratory determination of the fiber content of samples of peat (as defined in Classification D 4427 ) by dry mass. It also may be used for non-peat organic soil materials.

1.2 Because this test method is simple and requires no sophisticated equipment to perform, it is especially recommended for routine reconnaissance work, where large numbers of samples need to be tested and mineral contents are low.

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

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

2. Referenced Documents (purchase separately) The documents listed below are referenced within the subject standard but are not provided as part of the standard.

ASTM Standards

D2974 Test Methods for Moisture, Ash, and Organic Matter of Peat and Other Organic Soils

D4427 Classification of Peat Samples by Laboratory Testing

E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves

Keywords

deposit thickness; peat; probing; Fiber content; Mass; Peat materials; Soil;

ICS Code

ICS Number Code 65.080 (Fertilizers)

DOI: 10.1520/D1997-91R08E01

ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.

ASTM D1997