ASTM D2488-93e1 PDF

This practice covers procedures for the description of soils for engineering purposes.

This practice also describes a procedure for identifying soils, at the option of the user, based on the classification system described in Test Method D 2487. The identification is based on visual examination and manual tests. It must be clearly stated in reporting an identification that it is based on visual-manual procedures.

• When precise classification of soils for engineering purposes is required, the procedures prescribed in Test Method D 2487 shall be used.
• In this practice, the identification portion assigning a group symbol and name is limited to soil particles smaller than 3 in. (75 mm).
• The identification portion of this practice is limited to naturally occurring soils (disturbed and undisturbed).

NOTE - This practice may be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. (See Appendix X2).

The descriptive information in this practice may be used with other soil classification systems or for materials other than naturally occurring soils.