1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the Impact Value (IV) of a soil either in the field or a test mold, as follows:

1.2 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are provided for information only and are not considered standard. Reporting of test results in units other than SI shall not be regarded as nonconformance with this standard.

1.3 The standard test method, using a 4.5 kg (10 lbm) hammer, is suitable for, but not limited to, evaluating the strength of an unsaturated compacted fill, in particular pavement materials, soils, and soil-aggregates having maximum particle sizes less than 37.5 mm (1.5 in.).

1.4 By using a lighter 0.5 kg (1.1 lbm) or 2.25 kg (5 lbm) hammer, this test method is applicable for evaluating lower strength soils such as fine grained cohesionless, highly organic, saturated, or highly plastic soils having a maximum particle size less than 9.5 mm (0.375 in.), or natural turfgrass.

1.5 By using a heavier 10 kg (22 lbm) or 20 kg (44 lbm) hammer, this test method is applicable for evaluating harder materials at the top end the scales or beyond the ranges of the standard and lighter impact soil testers.

1.6 By performing laboratory test correlations for a particular soil using the 4.5 kg (10 lbm) hammer, IV may be correlated with an unsoaked California Bearing Ratio (CBR) or may be used to infer percentage compaction. The IV of the 0.5 kg (1.1 lbm) and 2.25 kg (5 lbm) hammers may be independently correlated to an unsoaked CBR or used to infer the percentage compaction for lower strength soils.

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

1.8 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.

1.9 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.

1.10 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.