Topsoil Density
Topsoil is used as the foundation for lawns, golf courses, athletic fields, gardens, and other planting areas requiring seeding. In the U.S., lawns and golf courses alone cover over 50,000 square miles of earth requiring top soil. For seeding to be successful, the top soil must provide an appropriate soil density at the time of planting. To aid architects, builders, landscapers, and maintenance staff in determining in-place density of topsoil and blended soils, a new ANS has been released by ASTM International.
ANSI/ASTM F3013-2013, Test Method for Density of Topsoil and Blended Soils In-Place by the Core Displacement Method, provides a test method to determine the undisturbed (in-situ) in-place bulk-density, moisture content, and unit weight of topsoil and blended soil growing mediums using the Core Displacement Method.
ANSI/ASTM F3013-2013 is intended for soil typical of growing mediums suitable for sports fields, golf courses, and lawn areas that may include organic material, silts, clays, and sand. This test method is not recommended for soils that are soft or friable (crumble easily) or in a moisture condition such that water seeps into the hand excavated hole, nor is it applicable for soil conditions in which the root mass is excessive or in which the root mass includes woody roots.
ASTM International, an ANSI member and audited designator, seeks to develop voluntary consensus standards to improve product quality, enhance safety, facilitate market access and trade, and build consumer confidence.