ASTM D4832-16

5.1 This test method provides standardized requirements for the preparation, curing, transporting and testing of test cylinders of CLSM under field conditions by replicating a “field cure” of the material.

5.2 CLSM is typically used as a backfill material around structures, particularly in confined or limited spaces. Compressive strength testing is performed to assist in the design of the mix and to serve as a quality control technique during construction. Mix design is typically based on 28-day strengths and construction control tests performed 7 days after placement. The compressive strength(s) and other test age(s) will vary according to the requirements for the end product. Additional information on the use and history of CLSM is contained in Appendix X1.

5.3 This test is one of a series of quality control tests that can be performed on CLSM during construction to monitor compliance with specification requirements. The other tests that can be used during construction control of CLSM are Practice D5971 and Test Methods D6023, D6024, and D6103.

5.4 There are many other combinations of soil, cement, fly ash (cementitious or not), admixtures, water quality or other materials that could be tested using this method. The mixtures will vary depending on the intended use, availability of materials, and placement requirements.

1.1 This test method covers procedures for the preparation, curing, transporting and testing of cylindrical test specimens of controlled low strength material (CLSM) for the determination of compressive strength.

1.2 This test method covers CLSM materials that have a higher strength than the soil but less than 8400 kPa (1200 psi). Typical strengths for most applications fall between 350 to 700 kPa (50 to 100 psi).

1.3 The CLSM used to make the molded specimens shall be sampled after all on-site adjustments have been made to the mixture proportions, including the addition of mix water and any admixtures.

1.4 This test method may be used to prepare and test cylindrical specimens of other mixtures of soil and cementitious materials, such as self-cementing fly ashes.

1.5 CLSM is also known as flowable fill, controlled density fill, soil-cement slurry, soil-cement grout, unshrinkable fill, K-Krete, and other similar names.

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

1.7 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to inch-pound units, which 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 test method.

1.8 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. See Section 7.