1.1 This test method is intended to serve as a rapid field-correlation test. The purpose of this test method is to indicate, under standard conditions, the relative proportions of clay-like or plastic fines and dust in granular soils and fine aggregates that pass the 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve. The term "sand equivalent" expresses the concept that most granular soils and fine aggregates are mixtures of desirable coarse particles, sand, and generally undesirable clay or plastic fines and dust.
Note 1—Some agencies perform the test on material with a top size smaller than the 4.75-mm (No. 4) sieve. This is done to avoid trapping the clay-like or plastic fines and dust below flaky shaped 4.75 to 2.36 mm (No. 4 to 8) sized particles. Testing smaller top sized material may lower the numerical results of the test.
1.2 Units of Measurement
1.2.1 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard, with the exception of the dimensions of the special sand equivalent test apparatus described in , in which the the inch dimensions are standard. Values in parentheses are for information only.
1.3 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.