ASTM D2978-23

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it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
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Designation: D2978 − 15 D2978 − 23
Standard Test MethodsMethod for
Volume of Processed Peat MaterialsPeat and Peat-Based
Growing Media
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2978; 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.
ε NOTE—Editorially updated units of measurement statement in April 2018.
1. Scope*
1.1 These test methods coverThis test method covers the measurement of the volume of loose and baled processed peat expressed
as cubic feetuncompressed (loose) and compressed (baled) peat and peat-based growing media and is used as a quality control
measurement to determine if the package contains the labeled amount of material. The results of these test methods arethis test
method is highly dependent on the experience of the personnel running the procedure.
1.2 There are two test methods, Method A for Loose Peat and Method B for Baled Peat. Method A is used when the material is
uncompacted and Method B is used when the material is compacted.This standard is for peat and peat-based growing media only.
While it is possible for other types of growing media to use this standard it is outside the scope and the methodology may have
to be altered to accommodate a different growing media.
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after inch-pound units
are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. Except, that the
sieve designations are typically identified using the “alternative” system in accordance with Practice E11, such as 3-in. 3 in. and
No. 200, instead of the “standard” of 75-mm and 75-μm, 75 mm and 75 μm, respectively.
1.4 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice
D6026.
1.4.1 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 procedures used do not
consider material variation, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any considerations 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.
1.5 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 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.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.22 on Media for Plant Growth.
Current edition approved May 1, 2015July 1, 2023. Published June 2015July 2023. Originally approved in 1971. Last previous edition approved in 20102015 as
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D2978 – 03D2978 – 15 (2010). DOI: 10.1520/D2978-15E01. DOI: 10.1520/D2978-23.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D2978 − 23
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in
Engineering Design and Construction
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits and Data Records in Geotechnical Data
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of common technical terms in this standard, refer to Terminology D653.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 loose peat, n—uncompacted peat in air-dried, granulated or crumb form.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 These test methods consist of either measuring the outer dimensions of compacted peat (Method B) or This test method
consists of dividing the particles of uncompacted peat (Method A) peat or peat-based growing media by passing them through a
⁄2-in. (12.5-mm) sieve and0.5 in. (12.5 mm) sieve by allowing them to fall into a volume-measuring container.container and if
required, measuring the outer dimensions of uncompressed peat.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 These test methods areThis test method is used to quantify the volume of peats peat and peat-based growing media under
consideration in commercial transactions to determine if the package contains the labeled quantity. As such, material comes into
the test area in an “as sold” condition.
NOTE 1—The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent 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/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself ensure reliable results.
Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
5.2 Peat and peat-based growing media are used by amateur gardeners and professional growers on a volume basis. Failure to
follow this standard procedure as written can lead to inaccurate results.
NOTE 1—The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent 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/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself ensure reliable results.
Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Sieve, Sieve— ⁄2-in. (12.5-mm), A 0.5 in. (12.5 mm) sieve conforming to Specification E11.
6.2 Measuring Container—A steel or wood bound container with metal having one of the following sets of inside
dimensions:dimensions
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volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
D2978 − 23
Size (ft ) Measuring Container Dimensions
(W × L × H)
⁄2 12 × 12 × 12 in. with line scribed at
6 in. from the bottom
⁄4 12 × 12 × 12 in. with line scribed at
9 in. from the bottom
1 12 × 12 × 12 in.
2 16 × 16 × 13.5 in.
5 16 × 16 × 33.75 in.
in Table 1:
6.3 Straight Edge—At least 20 inches (50.8 cm) in length A stiff metal straightedge of any convenient length but not less than 20
in. (508 mm) and having a thickness of ⁄4 in. (6.4 mm).
6.4 Dimension Measuring Device—A tape measure, ruler, or similar device with sufficient capacity to measure, without estimation,
the baled peat or peat-based growing media and readable to 1 in. 0.5 in. (12.5 mm) or better.
7. Procedure
7.1 A test specimen is considered one intact bag or bale of peat or peat-based growing media. The volume can only be determined
once per test specimen. It is not permissible to reuse peat or peat-based growing media for volume determination. It is suggested
to have at least 3 test specimens available for use in case something happens to the first or second one and the measurement must
be repeated.
7.2 Obtain the test specimen from an undamaged packaged bale or bag that has no visible signs of tears or openings in the
packaging. If the packaging of the bale or bag is torn, do not use the bale or bag for testing.
7.3 If the compression ratio needs to be known, measure and record the width, length, and height of the bale to the nearest 0.5
in. (12.5 mm). When outside wrappers thicker than 0.75 in. (19.1 mm) are in place, correct the measurements to account for the
thickness of the outside wrapper.
7.4 Select the measuring container most closely corresponding to the amount of volume the label states is contained in the
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