ASTM D4832/D4832M-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: D4832 − 16 D4832/D4832M − 23
Standard Test Method for
Preparation and Testing of Controlled Low Strength Material
(CLSM) Cylindrical Test CylindersSpecimens
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4832;D4832/D4832M; 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 This test method covers procedures for the preparation, curing, transporting and testing of cylindrical test specimens of
controlled low strength material (CLSM) for the determination of compressive strength.
1.2 This test method covers CLSM materials that have a higher strength than the soil but less than 8400 kPa (1200 psi).[1200 psi].
Typical strengths for most applications fall between 350 to 700 kPa (50[50 to 100 psi).psi].
1.3 The CLSM used to make the molded specimens shall be sampled after all on-site adjustments have been made to the mixture
proportions, including the addition of mix water and any admixtures.
1.4 This test method may be used to prepare and test cylindrical specimens of other mixtures of soil and cementitious materials,
such as self-cementing fly ashes.
1.5 CLSM is also known as flowable fill, controlled density fill, soil-cement slurry, soil-cement grout, unshrinkable fill, K-Krete,
and other similar names.
1.6 Units—The values stated in SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each
system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the
two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard.
1.6.1 The gravitational system of inch-pound units is used when dealing with inch-pound units. In the system, the pound (lbf)
represents a unit of force (weight), while the units for mass is slugs. The slug unit is not given, unless dynamic (F = ma)
calculations are involved.
1.7 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice
D6026., unless superseded by this standard.
1.7.1 For purposes of comparing, a measured or calculated value(s) with specified limits, the measured or calculated value(s) shall
be rounded to the nearest decimal or significant digits in the specified limits.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.15 on Stabilization With
Admixtures.
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2016June 1, 2023. Published January 2017July 2023. Originally approved in 1988. Last previous edition approved in 20102016 as
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D4832 – 10.D4832 – 16 . DOI: 10.1520/D4832-16E01.10.1520/D4832_D4832M-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
D4832/D4832M − 23
1.7.2 The procedures used to specify how data are collected/recorded and calculated in this standard are regarded as the industry
standard. In addition, they are representative of the significant digits that should generally 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.
1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for
information only and are not considered standard.
1.7.1 The converted inch-pound units use the gravitational system of units. In this system, the pound (lbf) represents a unit of force
(weight), while the unit for mass is slugs. The converted slug unit is not given, unless dynamic (F=ma) calculations are involved.
1.8 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. See Section 7.
1.9 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C31/C31M Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field
C39/C39M Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens
C125 Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Aggregates
C192/C192M Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Laboratory
C470/C470M Specification for Molds for Forming Concrete Test Cylinders Vertically
C617C617/C617M Practice for Capping Cylindrical Concrete Specimens
C1231/C1231M Practice for Use of Unbonded Caps in Determination of Compressive Strength of Hardened Cylindrical
Concrete Specimens
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
D2166/D2166M Test Method for Unconfined Compressive Strength of Cohesive Soil
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in
Engineering Design and Construction
D5971D5971/D5971M Practice for Sampling Freshly Mixed Controlled Low-Strength Material
D6023 Test Method for Density (Unit Weight), Yield, Cement Content, and Air Content (Gravimetric) of Controlled
Low-Strength Material (CLSM)
D6024D6024/D6024M Test Method for Ball Drop on Controlled Low Strength Material (CLSM) to Determine Suitability for
Load Application
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits and Data Records in Geotechnical Data
D6103D6103/D6103M Test Method for Flow Consistency of Controlled Low Strength Material (CLSM)
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of common technical terms in this standard, refer to Terminology C125 and D653.
3.2 Definitions:Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 For common definitions of terms in this standard, refer to Terminology C125 and D653.
3.2.1 Controlled Low Strength Material (CLSM), n—a mixture of soil, aggregates (sand, gravel, or both), cementitious materials,
water, and sometimes admixtures, that hardens into a material with a higher strength than the soil but less than about 8400 kPa
(1200 psi).[1200 psi].
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or 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 the ASTM website.
D4832/D4832M − 23
3.2.1.1 Discussion—
Used as a replacement for compacted backfill, CLSM can be placed as a slurry, a mortar, or a compacted material and typically
has strengths of 350 to 700 kPa (50[50 to 100 psi)psi] for most applications.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 Cylinders CLSM cylindrical specimens are tested to determine the compressive strength of the CLSM. The cylindersstrength.
The specimens are prepared by pouring a representative CLSM sample into molds, then depending on the strength development,
either curing the cylindersspecimens then removing them from the molds or removing the molds prior to curing the
cylinders,specimens, and preparing the cylindersspecimens for compression testing. The cylindersspecimens are then tested to
obtain compressive strengths. Duplicate cylindersspecimens are required for each test age specified.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 This test method provides standardized requirements for the preparation, curing, transporting and testing of test cylinder-
sspecimens of CLSM under field conditions by replicating a “field cure” of the material.
5.1.1 If the cylindersspecimens are field cured, as stipulated herein, the resulting compressive strength test data may be used for
the following purposes:
5.1.1.1 Acceptance testing for specified strength,
5.1.1.2 Checking the adequacy of mixture proportions for strength,
5.1.1.3 Quality control,
5.1.1.4 Determination of whether the CLSM is capable of being Determining if the material can be put in service,
5.1.1.5 Adequacy of curing.
5.2 CLSM is typically used as a backfill material around structures, particularly in confined or limited spaces. Compressive
strength testing is performed to assist in the design of the mix and to serve as a quality control technique during construction. Mix
design is typically based on 28-day strengths and construction control tests performed 7 days after placement. The compressive
strength(s) and other test age(s) will vary according to the requirements for the end product. Additional information on the use and
history of CLSM is contained in Appendix X1.
5.3 This test is one of a series of quality control tests that can be performed on CLSM during construction to monitor compliance
with specification requirements. The other tests that can be used during construction control of CLSM are Practice
D5971D5971/D5971M and Test Methods D6023, D6024D6024/D6024M, and D6103D6103/D6103M.
5.4 There are many other combinations of soil, cement, fly ash (cementitious or not), admixtures, water quality or other materials
that could be tested using this method. The mixtures will vary depending on the intended use, availability of materials, and
placement requirements.
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/and the like. testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does
not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Single-Use Cylindrical Molds—Plastic single-use 150 × 300 mm (6[6 × 12 in.)in.] or 100 × 200 mm (4[4 × 8 in.) cylinderin.]
cylindrical molds with tight-fitting lids (see 9.2.2.1Note 4 regarding cautionary statement for “air-tight” lids), conforming to
Specification C470/C470M. Other sizes and types of molds may be used as long as the length to diameter ratio is 2 to 1. at least
2.0 to 1.0 and no greater than 2.5 to 1.0. The 150 × 300 mm (6[6 × 12 in.)in.] molds are preferred for use in concrete compression
apparatus (Section sometimes preferred 6.5) because of the low strength of the material and the larger surface area of the ends of
the cylinders.specimens.
D4832/D4832M − 23
6.1.1 Mold removal can be accomplished with the use of low air pressure. The pressure shall be low enough so the sample is
undamaged.using one or a combination of the following procedures. Select a procedure that avoids disturbance and damage to the
specific mix being tested.
6.1.1.1 Apply air pressure to the bottom of the specimen through a small hole in the bottom of the mold. The pressure shall be
low enough to avoid damage to the test specimen. Drilling the hole in the mold shall be accomplished in a manner that avoids
damage to the specimen.
6.1.1.2 Heat the specimen and mold in an oven at no greater than 95°C [200°F] for no more than 15 minutes. Upon removal from
the oven invert the mold and remove it from the specimen.
6.2 Sampling and Mixing Receptacle—The receptacle shall be a suitable non-absorbent material (heavy-gauge metal or heavy duty
plastic container, wheelbarrow, etc.) and the like) of sufficient capacity to allow easy sampling and remixing with a shovel or scoop
and to allow preparation of scoop, and to hold enough material to prepare at least two cylinders and for other tests such as described
in Test Methods molded test specimens.D5971, D6023, and D6103.
6.3 Storage Container—A tightly constructed, insulated, firmly braced wooden box with a cover or other suitable container for
storage of the CLSM cylindersspecimens at the construction site. The container shall be equipped, as necessary, to maintain the
temperature immediately adjacent to the cylindersspecimens in the range of 16 to 27°C (60 to 80°F).[60 to 80°F]. The location
of the storage container shall be away from direct sunlight and protected from freezing temperatures for extended lengths of time
(for additional guidance see Section on Curing in Practice C31/C31M). The container shall be marked for identification and shall
be a bright color to avoid disturbance.
6.4 Transportation Container—A sturdy wooden box or other suitable container constructed with adequate padding to minimize
reduce the potential for shock, vibration, or damage to the CLSM cylindersspecimens when transported to the laboratory.
6.5 Compression Testing Machine—The testing machine shall meet the requirements as described in Test Method C39/C39M with
the following exceptions.
6.5.1 The readability shall be a minimum of two significant digits with interpolation of the second digit not more than 0.11 kN
(25 lbf)[25 lbf] for strengths less than about 350 kPa (50 psi).[50 psi]. For strengths greater than about 350 kPa (50 psi),[50 psi],
the minimum readability shouldshall be two significant digits with interpolation of the second digit not more than 0.55 kN (100
lbf).[100 lbf].
6.5.2 Since the compressive strength of CLSM cylinders will typically bespecimens can range from 100 to 8400 kPa (about[about
15 to 1200 lbf/in.psi], ), the testing machine must have a loading range such that valid values of compressive strength can be
obtained.
6.5.3 Alternatively, a compression device meeting the requirements described in Test Method D2166/D2166M can be used as long
as the upper platen is spherically seated and has a diameter larger than the capping material on the test specimen.
6.6 Curing Environment—A curing environment (water bath, damp sand, fog room) that meets the requirements of Practice
C192/C192M. The cylindersspecimens may be cured in the same curing environment used for concrete cylindersspecimens at the
laboratory performing the testing.
6.7 Measuring Device—A measuring device suitable for measuring the heights and diameters of test specimens to the nearest 0.25
mm [0.01 in.].
6.8 Mallet—A mallet with a rubber or rawhide head weighing 0.6 kg 6 0.2 kg [1.25 lb 6 0.5 lb].
6.9 Small Tools—Tools and items that may be required such as shovels, pails, trowels, tamping rod and scoops.
7. Hazards
7.1 Technical Precaution—The procedure for the preparation of CLSM test cylindersspecimens has many similarities to preparing
D4832/D4832M − 23
concrete test cylindersspecimens (Practice C31/C31M and Practice C192/C192M). However, the cylindersspecimens are much
more fragile than concrete cylinders,specimens, and special care should be taken in their preparation, storage, and handling.
7.2 Safety Hazards:
7.2.1 Strictly observe the safety precautions stated in Practice C617C617/C617M.
7.2.2 If the cylinders are capped with molten sulfur mortar (which is not advised for CLSM cylinders, see Fresh hydraulic
cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.Section 10 on
Capping the Cylinders), wear proper personnel protective equipment, including gloves with cuffs at least 15 cm (6-in.) long.
(Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged
exposure. )
8. CLSM Sampling and Test Specimens
8.1 Take samples of the CLSM for each test cylinderspecimen in accordance with D5971D5971/D5971M. Record the identity of
the CLSM represented and the date and time of casting.
3 3
8.2 The sample from the batch shouldshall be a minimum of 0.03 m (1[1 ft )] for each two cylinders test specimens to be
prepared. Prepare a minimum of two compressive strength cylinders test specimens for each test age to represent each sampled
batch. Additional material may be required if other testing is to be performed, such as in Test Methods D5971, D6023, and
D6103D6103/D6103M.
NOTE 2—In the initial stage of CLSM usage, preparation of three cylinders or more specimens is recommended to obtain reliable compressive strength
data for each test age. Subsequently, two cylindersspecimens may be used to maintain testing records and to ascertain an overall quality of the mix.
However, since the cylindersspecimens are fragile and may be damaged during transportation, mold removal, and capping, preparation of an extra
cylinderspecimen may be necessary to provide the minimum number of test cylindersspecimens (see Note 410.3 and 10.2Note 6). In addition, it may be
useful to determine the density of the test cylindersspecimens to help evaluate the uniformity of the compressive strength values.
9. CLSM Cylinder Test Specimen Molding and Curing
9.1 Place of Molding—Mold cylindersspecimens promptly on a level, rigid, horizontal surface free from vibration and other
disturbances. The cylindersspecimens should be prepared at a place as near as practicable to the location where they are to be stored
during the first four days.
9.2 Placing the CLSM:
9.2.1 Thoroughly mix the CLSM in the sampling and mixing receptacle to avoid segregation and to maintain homogeneity.
Because CLSM mixtures can bleed easily (the appearance of free water at the surface), the sample must be routinely mixed during
cylinderspecimen production to ensureprovide homogeneity, avoid segregation and ensure that the cylindersegregation, and to
make sure the specimen produced represents the material placed in the trench.
9.2.2 With a scoop or pail, scoop through the center portion of the receptacle and pour the CLSM into the mold. Repeat until the
mold is full. Tap the outsides of the cylinder mold lightly no more than ten times with a tamping rod the mallet or open face of
the hand to close holes that remain and to release entrapped air voids, assuring complete filling of the mold.so the mold is
completely filled. If necessary, level off the top layer with the trowel or straight-edge so it remains even and relatively smooth.
Place a lid or plastic bag loosely on the mold.
NOTE 3—The placement of CLSM into the cylinderspecimen molds generally does not follow Practices C31/C31M or C192/C192M as the placement is
not done
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