ASTM D 5520 : 2011

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the creep behavior of cylindrical specimens of frozen soil, subjected to uniaxial compression. It specifies the apparatus, instrumentation, and procedures for determining the stress-strain-time, or strength versus strain rate relationships for frozen soils under deviatoric creep conditions.

1.2 Although this test method is one that is most commonly used, it is recognized that creep properties of frozen soil related to certain specific applications, can also be obtained by some alternative procedures, such as stress-relaxation tests, simple shear tests, and beam flexure tests. Creep testing under triaxial test conditions will be covered in another standard.

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 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026.

1.4.1 For the 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.

1.4.2 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.