ASTM D 4542 : 2022

1.1These test methods cover a rapid procedure for squeezing pore water from fine-grained soils for the purpose of determining the amount of soluble salts present in the extracted pore water.

1.2These test methods were developed for soils having a water content equal to or greater than approximately 14 %, for example, marine soils. An extensive summary of procedures for extracting pore water from soils has been presented by Kriukov and Manheim (1).2

1.3These test methods are not generally applicable for determining the soluble salt content of the pore water extracted from coarse-grained soils, such as clean sands and gravels.

1.4Test Method A provides a procedure using a refractometer with a refraction index scale; Test Method B provides a procedure using a refractometer with a parts per thousand (ppt) scale.

1.5Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.6All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026 unless superseded by these test methods.

1.7This 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.

1.8This 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.