ASTM E3163-18

Standard Guide for Selection and Application of Analytical Methods and Procedures Used during Sediment Corrective Action

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This guide should be used to support existing decision frameworks for the selection and application of analytical procedures to sediment programs.  
4.2 Activities described in this guide should be conducted by persons familiar with current sediment site characterization and remediation techniques, sediment remediation science and technology, toxicology concepts, risk and exposure assessment methodologies, and ecological evaluation protocols.  
4.3 This guide may be used by various parties involved in sediment programs, including regulatory agencies, project sponsors, environmental consultants, toxicologists, risk assessors, site remediation professionals, environmental contractors, analytical testing laboratories, data validators, data reviewers and users, and other stakeholders, which may include, but are not limited to, owners, buyers, developers, lenders, insurers, government agencies, and community members and groups.  
4.4 This guide is not intended to replace or supersede federal, state, local or international regulatory requirements. Instead this guide may be used to complement and support such requirements.  
4.5 This guide provides a decision framework based on over-arching features and elements that should be customized by the user based on site-specific conditions, regulatory context, and sediment program objectives for a particular site. This guide should not be used alone as a prescriptive checklist.  
4.6 The selection and application of analytical methods and test procedures for sediment programs is an evolving science. This guide provides a systematic but flexible decision framework to accommodate variations in approaches by regulatory agency and by user based on project objectives, site complexity, unique site features, programmatic and regulatory requirements, newly developed guidance, newly published scientific research, use of alternative scientifically-based methods and procedures, changes in regulatory criteria, advances in scientific...
SCOPE
1.1 This is a guide for the selection and application of a range of analytical methods and testing procedures that may be used during sediment programs, including physical properties testing, chemical analytical methods, passive sampling procedures, bioassays and toxicity testing, environmental forensics methods and procedures, and methods development procedures for sediment programs.  
1.2 Sediment programs vary greatly in terms of environmental complexity, physical, chemical and biological characteristics, human health and ecological risk concerns, and geographic and regulatory context. This guide provides information for the selection and application of analytical methods and testing protocols applicable to a wide range of sediment programs.  
1.3 This guide describes widely accepted considerations and best practices used in the selection and application of analytical procedures used during sediment programs. This guide supports and complements existing regulations and technical guidance.  
1.4 This guide is designed for general application to a wide range of sediment programs performed under international, federal, state and local environmental programs. This guide describes the selection and application of analytical methods and test procedures, not the requirements for specific regulatory jurisdictions. This guide compliments but does not replace regulatory agency requirements.  
1.5 This guide may be used for a wide range of sediment programs, including programs with overlapping regulatory jurisdictions, programs without a clearly established regulatory framework, voluntary programs, Brownfield programs, and international programs. The users of this guide should be aware of the appropriate regulatory requirements that apply to sediment programs. The user should consult applicable regulatory agency requirements to identify appropriate technical decision criteria and seek regulatory approvals, as necessary, prio...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Aug-2018
• ICS: 13.020.30 - Environmental impact assessment
• ICS: 71.040.50 - Physicochemical methods of analysis
• Technical Committee: E50 - Environmental Assessment, Risk Management and Corrective Action
• Drafting Committee: E50.04 - Corrective Action

Relations

• Refers: ASTM D854-23 - Standard Test Methods for Specific Gravity of Soil Solids by the Water Displacement Method
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM D4464-15(2020) - Standard Test Method for Particle Size Distribution of Catalytic Materials by Laser Light Scattering
• Effective Date: 15-May-2020
• Refers: ASTM D2974-20 - Standard Test Methods for Determining the Water (Moisture) Content, Ash Content, and Organic Material of Peat and Other Organic Soils
• Effective Date: 15-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM D2974-20e1 - Standard Test Methods for Determining the Water (Moisture) Content, Ash Content, and Organic Material of Peat and Other Organic Soils
• Effective Date: 15-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM D5739-06(2020) - Standard Practice for Oil Spill Source Identification by Gas Chromatography and Positive Ion Electron Impact Low Resolution Mass Spectrometry
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM E1688-19 - Standard Guide for Determination of the Bioaccumulation of Sediment-Associated Contaminants by Benthic Invertebrates
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2019
• Refers: ASTM E1706-19 - Standard Test Method for Measuring the Toxicity of Sediment-Associated Contaminants with Freshwater Invertebrates
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM D2216-19 - Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2019
• Refers: ASTM D3213-19 - Standard Practices for Handling, Storing, and Preparing Soft Intact Marine Soil
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2019
• Refers: ASTM E1850-04(2019) - Standard Guide for Selection of Resident Species as Test Organisms for Aquatic and Sediment Toxicity Tests
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2019
• Refers: ASTM D7263-09(2018)e1 - Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Density (Unit Weight) of Soil Specimens
• Effective Date: 15-Feb-2018
• Refers: ASTM D7263-09(2018) - Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Density (Unit Weight) of Soil Specimens
• Effective Date: 15-Feb-2018
• Refers: ASTM D2487-17e1 - Standard Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System)
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2017
• Refers: ASTM D2487-17 - Standard Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System)
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2017
• Refers: ASTM D2488-17 - Standard Practice for Description and Identification of Soils (Visual-Manual Procedures)
• Effective Date: 15-Jul-2017

Overview

ASTM E3163-18: Standard Guide for Selection and Application of Analytical Methods and Procedures Used during Sediment Corrective Action is a comprehensive international standard developed by ASTM International. This guide provides essential direction for professionals involved in sediment characterization and remediation projects, supporting the systematic selection and application of analytical methods and procedures. While it does not supersede regulatory requirements, ASTM E3163-18 is designed to complement and enhance existing federal, state, local, and international frameworks. It is applicable to a wide range of sediment programs including those with complex regulatory landscapes, voluntary initiatives, Brownfield projects, and international remediation efforts.

Key Topics

• Decision Framework for Analytical Method Selection

  • Provides a flexible, tiered approach that can be tailored to site conditions, stakeholder objectives, and the regulatory context.
  • Promotes best practices and widely accepted considerations for method selection.

• Scope of Analytical Methods Covered

  • Physical properties testing: bulk density, porosity, grain size analysis.
  • Chemical analytical methods for contaminants in sediment.
  • Passive sampling procedures for pore water and sediment.
  • Biological testing, including toxicity and bioassay protocols.
  • Environmental forensics and advanced analytical techniques.
  • Method development and data quality assurance.

• Stakeholder Collaboration

  • Emphasizes the importance of including regulatory agencies, consultants, project sponsors, laboratory service providers, and community groups.
  • Encourages engagement through all phases of sediment remediation, from site assessment to ongoing monitoring.

• Project Planning and Data Quality

  • Supports development of Quality Assurance Project Plans (QAPP) and Data Quality Objectives (DQOs).
  • Recommends systematic project scoping, ongoing documentation, and transparent data reporting.

Applications

ASTM E3163-18 is intended for use by a diverse group of professionals and stakeholders engaged in sediment projects, including:

• Regulatory Agencies: Use the guide to complement technical standards while maintaining compliance with jurisdictional requirements.
• Environmental Consultants and Site Remediation Professionals: Implement robust, defensible sampling and testing strategies during site investigations, corrective actions, and long-term monitoring.
• Analytical Laboratories and Data Reviewers: Apply consistent and validated methods for physical, chemical, and biological assessment of sediment samples.
• Project Sponsors and Stakeholders: Facilitate project planning and stakeholder communication, ensuring transparency and buy-in at every stage.
• Brownfield and Voluntary Program Operators: Address site-specific challenges by adapting analytical approaches to diverse environmental and regulatory conditions.

Typical practical uses include:

• Designing and executing site characterization and risk assessment studies.
• Supporting remedy selection and effectiveness monitoring.
• Developing and refining Conceptual Site Models (CSMs) for contaminated sediment sites.
• Assisting with documentation required for regulatory review and stakeholder engagement.

Related Standards

ASTM E3163-18 is part of a robust family of standards supporting sediment analysis and remediation. Related standards include:

• ASTM D6913/D6913M: Test Methods for Particle-Size Distribution of Soils Using Sieve Analysis.
• ASTM D2216: Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass.
• ASTM D2937: Test Method for Density of Soil in Place by the Drive-Cylinder Method.
• ASTM E1391: Guide for Collection, Storage, Characterization, and Manipulation of Sediments for Toxicological Testing.
• USEPA Methods (e.g., 608, 8082, 8260): Widely referenced for the chemical analysis of environmental samples.

When conducting sediment corrective action programs, users are encouraged to consult both ASTM E3163-18 and applicable regulatory or technical standards to ensure all project and compliance requirements are thoroughly addressed.

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Keywords: ASTM E3163-18, sediment corrective action, analytical methods, sediment testing procedures, regulatory compliance, environmental remediation, sediment site characterization, data quality, contaminated sediment, analytical laboratories, sediment program planning.

Standards Content (Sample)

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.
Designation: E3163 − 18
Standard Guide for
Selection and Application of Analytical Methods and
Procedures Used during Sediment Corrective Action
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3163; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
INTRODUCTION
This guide discusses the selection and application of analytical methods and test procedures used
during sediment programs. This guide provides a flexible, defensible framework for selection and
applicationofanalyticalmethodsandtestingprotocolsusedinwiderangeofsedimentprograms.This
guide is structured as a tool kit to support a tiered approach with procedures of increasing complexity
astheuserproceedsthroughtheprocess.Thisguideprovidesinformationonkeydecisioncriteriaand
best practices to support the user in achieving intended sediment program objectives.
There are numerous technical decisions that must be made in the selection and application of
analytical methods and testing protocols used during a sediment programs. It is not the intent of this
guide to define appropriate technical decisions, but rather to provide technical support within existing
decision frameworks. This guide is not intended to replace existing regulatory requirements or
guidance,butrathertocomplementtheseprograms.Thisguideencouragesuser-ledcollaborationwith
stakeholders, including analytical laboratories and testing service providers, in the selection and
application of analytical methods and testing protocols used to support project-specific decision
criteria for a particular sediment program. This guide recognizes the complexity and diversity of
sediment programs and project objectives and provides appendixes to support a range of project
applications.Theappendixesareprovidedforadditionalinformationandarenotmandatoryfortheuse
ofthisguide.ASTMstandardguidesarenotregulations;theyareconsensusbasedstandardguidesthat
may be followed voluntarily.
1. Scope 1.3 Thisguidedescribeswidelyacceptedconsiderationsand
bestpracticesusedintheselectionandapplicationofanalytical
1.1 This is a guide for the selection and application of a
procedures used during sediment programs. This guide sup-
rangeofanalyticalmethodsandtestingproceduresthatmaybe
ports and complements existing regulations and technical
used during sediment programs, including physical properties
guidance.
testing, chemical analytical methods, passive sampling
procedures, bioassays and toxicity testing, environmental fo-
1.4 This guide is designed for general application to a wide
rensics methods and procedures, and methods development
range of sediment programs performed under international,
procedures for sediment programs.
federal, state and local environmental programs. This guide
describes the selection and application of analytical methods
1.2 Sediment programs vary greatly in terms of environ-
and test procedures, not the requirements for specific regula-
mental complexity, physical, chemical and biological
toryjurisdictions.Thisguidecomplimentsbutdoesnotreplace
characteristics,humanhealthandecologicalriskconcerns,and
regulatory agency requirements.
geographic and regulatory context. This guide provides infor-
mation for the selection and application of analytical methods
1.5 This guide may be used for a wide range of sediment
and testing protocols applicable to a wide range of sediment
programs, including programs with overlapping regulatory
programs.
jurisdictions,programswithoutaclearlyestablishedregulatory
framework, voluntary programs, Brownfield programs, and
internationalprograms.Theusersofthisguideshouldbeaware
ThisguideisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeE50onEnvironmental
of the appropriate regulatory requirements that apply to sedi-
Assessment, Risk Management and CorrectiveAction and is the direct responsibil-
ment programs. The user should consult applicable regulatory
ity of Subcommittee E50.04 on Corrective Action.
agency requirements to identify appropriate technical decision
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2018. Published November 2018. DOI:
10.1520/E3163–18 criteria and seek regulatory approvals, as necessary, prior to
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E3163 − 18
selection and application of analytical methods and test proce-
Section
Daubert Criteria to Guide the Selection and Application of Appendix X13
dures to sediment programs.
Analytical Test Methods Used for Environmental
Sediment Forensics
1.6 This guide supports the collaboration of stakeholders,
References
including project sponsors, regulators, laboratory service
Bibliography
providers, and others, on the selection and application of
1.12 This standard does not purport to address all of the
analytical procedures to sediment programs. This guide high-
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
lights key considerations for designing sediment program data
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
acquisitionplans,includingapplicabilityanduselimitationsof
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
analytical methods and test procedures, and data usability
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
considerations. This guide recognizes the challenges inherent
1.13 This international standard was developed in accor-
in selection and application of analytical methods and test
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
procedures for sediment systems, as well as the challenges
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
inherentingeneratinganalyticaldataofsufficientsensitivityto
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
meet regulatory criteria applied to sediment programs.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1.7 ASTM standard guides are not regulations; they are
consensus standard guides that may be followed voluntarily to
2. Referenced Documents
support applicable regulatory requirements.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.8 Test methods, procedures, and guidelines published by
D854Test Methods for Specific Gravity of Soil Solids by
ASTM, USEPA, and other U.S. and international agencies are
Water Pycnometer
used for sediment programs, many of which are referenced by
D1498Test Method for Oxidation-Reduction Potential of
thisguide.However,thesedocumentsdonotprovideguidance
Water
on the selection and application of analytical methods and test
D1586TestMethodforStandardPenetrationTest(SPT)and
procedures for sediment programs. This guide was developed
Split-Barrel Sampling of Soils
for that purpose.
D2216TestMethodsforLaboratoryDeterminationofWater
1.9 This guide may be used in conjunction with other
(Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
ASTM guides developed for sediment programs.
D2217Practice for Wet Preparation of Soil Samples for
Particle-Size Analysis and Determination of Soil Con-
1.10 The user of this guide should review existing informa-
stants
tion and data available for a sediment project to determine the
D2487Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering
most appropriate entry point into and use of this guide.
Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System)
1.11 Table of Contents:
D2488Practice for Description and Identification of Soils
Section (Visual-Manual Procedures)
Introduction
D2937Test Method for Density of Soil in Place by the
Scope 1
Drive-Cylinder Method
Referenced Documents 2
D2974Test Methods for Moisture,Ash, and Organic Matter
Terminology 3
Significance and Use 4
of Peat and Other Organic Soils
Physical Property Test Methods 5
D3213Practices for Handling, Storing, and Preparing Soft
Chemistry Analytical Methods 6
Passive Sampling Methods 7 Intact Marine Soil
Biological Test Methods 8
D4220/D4220MPractices for Preserving and Transporting
Environmental Forensics Analytical Methods 9
Soil Samples
Analytical Method Development 10
Key Differences in Physical Properties of Sediment and Appendix X1 D4318Test Methods for Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and
Soil
Plasticity Index of Soils
Guidelines for Collection of Sediment Samples for Appendix X2
D4464Test Method for Particle Size Distribution of Cata-
Physical Properties Testing
Key Concepts in Sediment Stratigraphy for Physical Appendix X3
lytic Materials by Laser Light Scattering
Properties Testing
D4643Test Method for Determination of Water Content of
Quick Reference Guide for Sediment Chemistry Appendix X4
Soil and Rock by Microwave Oven Heating
Analytical Method Selection
Sampling Reference Guide for Sediment Chemistry Appendix X5
D5084Test Methods for Measurement of Hydraulic Con-
Analytical Methods
ductivity of Saturated Porous Materials Using a Flexible
Critical Success Factors for Sediment Chemistry Appendix X6
Wall Permeameter
Analytical Programs
Quick Reference Guide for Passive Sampling Method Appendix X7
D5739Practice for Oil Spill Source Identification by Gas
Selection
Chromatography and Positive Ion Electron Impact Low
Advantages and Limitations of Passive Sampler Types Appendix X8
Resolution Mass Spectrometry
for Organic Compounds
Methodologies and Equations for Determining Aqueous Appendix X9
Chemical Concentrations from Passive Sampler
Results
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Pros and Cons Evaluation of Biological Test Methods Appendix X10
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Decision Tree for Biological Testing Selection Appendix X11
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Species List for Biological Testing Appendix X12
the ASTM website.
E3163 − 18
D6169/D6169MGuide for Selection of Soil and Rock Sam- Material) by Extraction and Gravimetry, SW-846
pling Devices Used With Drill Rigs for Environmental Compendium, 2010
Investigations USEPA Method 1668 Revision AChlorinated Biphenyl
D6913/D6913MTest Methods for Particle-Size Distribution CongenersinWater,Soil,Sediment,Biosolids,andTissue
(Gradation) of Soils Using Sieve Analysis by HRGS/HRMS, SW-846 Compendium, 2003
D7263Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Den- USEPA Method 1668 Revision BChlorinated Biphenyl
sity (Unit Weight) of Soil Specimens CongenersinWater,Soil,Sediment,Biosolids,andTissue
D7363Test Method for Determination of Parent and Alkyl by HRGS/HRMS, SW-846 Compendium, 2008
Polycyclic Aromatics in Sediment Pore Water Using USEPAMethod8082RevisionAPolychlorinatedBiphenyls
Solid-Phase Microextraction and Gas Chromatography/ (PCBs) by GC, SW-846 Compendium, 2007
Mass Spectrometry in Selected Ion Monitoring Mode USEPA Method 8260 Revision BVolatile Organic Com-
D7928Test Method for Particle-Size Distribution (Grada- pounds by GC/MS, SW-846 Compendium, 1996
tion) of Fine-Grained Soils Using the Sedimentation USEPA Method 8270 Revision CSemivolatile Organic
(Hydrometer) Analysis Compounds by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
E1367TestMethodforMeasuringtheToxicityofSediment- (GC/MS), SW-846 Compendium, 1996
Associated Contaminants with Estuarine and Marine In- USEPA Method 8290 Revision APolychlorinated Dibenzo-
vertebrates p-Dioxins (PCDDs) and Polychlorinated Dibenzofurans
E1391Guide for Collection, Storage, Characterization, and (PCDF) by HRGC/HRMS, SW-846 Compendium, 2007
Manipulation of Sediments for Toxicological Testing and
3. Terminology
for Selection of Samplers Used to Collect Benthic Inver-
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
tebrates
3.1.1 The reader should review the definitions presented
E1525GuideforDesigningBiologicalTestswithSediments
below prior to proceeding with use of the guide. This guide
E1611Guide for Conducting Sediment Toxicity Tests with
assumes a basic working knowledge of analytical procedures
Polychaetous Annelids
and test methods applicable to sediment programs. Where
E1688Guide for Determination of the Bioaccumulation of
possible and applicable, the terms included in this guide have
Sediment-Associated Contaminants by Benthic Inverte-
meanings consistent with published regulatory definitions
brates
widely used within existing international, federal, state, and
E1689Guide for Developing Conceptual Site Models for
local programs. The following terms are being defined to
Contaminated Sites
reflect their specific use in this guide. These definitions do not
E1706TestMethodforMeasuringtheToxicityofSediment-
replace existing regulatory definitions.
Associated Contaminants with Freshwater Invertebrates
3.1.2 sediment, n—a matrix of pore water and particles
E1850Guide for Selection of Resident Species as Test
including gravel, sand, silt, clay and other natural and anthro-
Organisms for Aquatic and Sediment Toxicity Tests
pogenic substances that have settled at the bottom of a tidal or
E2081Guide for Risk-Based Corrective Action
non-tidal body of water.
E2122Guide for Conducting In-situ Field Bioassays With
Caged Bivalves
4. Significance and Use
E2205/E2205MGuide for Risk-Based CorrectiveAction for
4.1 This guide should be used to support existing decision
Protection of Ecological Resources
frameworks for the selection and application of analytical
2.2 API Document:
procedures to sediment programs.
API RP40Recommended Practices for CoreAnalysis, 1998
4 4.2 Activities described in this guide should be conducted
2.3 EPA Documents:
by persons familiar with current sediment site characterization
USEPA Method 608Organochlorine Pesticides and PCBs,
and remediation techniques, sediment remediation science and
SW-846 Compendium, 1984
technology,toxicologyconcepts,riskandexposureassessment
USEPA Method 680Determination of Pesticides and PCBs
methodologies, and ecological evaluation protocols.
in Water and Soil/Sediment by GC/MS, SW846
Compendium, 1985 4.3 This guide may be used by various parties involved in
USEPA Method 1613 Revision BTetra- through Octa- sediment programs, including regulatory agencies, project
sponsors, environmental consultants, toxicologists, risk
Chlorinated Dioxins and Furans by Isotope Dilution
HRGC/HRMS, SW-846 Compendium, 1994 assessors, site remediation professionals, environmental
contractors,analyticaltestinglaboratories,datavalidators,data
USEPA Method 1664 Revision Bn-Hexane Extractable
Material (HEM; Oil and Grease) and Silica Gel Treated reviewers and users, and other stakeholders, which may
include, but are not limited to, owners, buyers, developers,
n-Hexane Extractable Material (SGT-HEM; Non-polar
lenders, insurers, government agencies, and community mem-
bers and groups.
Available from American Petroleum Institute (API), 1220 L. St., NW,
4.4 This guide is not intended to replace or supersede
Washington, DC 20005-4070, http://www.api.org.
federal, state, local or international regulatory requirements.
AvailablefromUnitedStatesEnvironmentalProtectionAgency(EPA),William
Instead this guide may be used to complement and support
Jefferson Clinton Bldg., 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20460,
http://www.epa.gov. such requirements.
E3163 − 18
4.5 This guide provides a decision framework based on and analytical technologies, and application of best manage-
over-arching features and elements that should be customized ment practices and guiding principles as applied to contami-
by the user based on site-specific conditions, regulatory nated sediment programs.
context, and sediment program objectives for a particular site.
4.13 Use of this guide supports a multiple lines of evidence
Thisguideshouldnotbeusedaloneasaprescriptivechecklist.
approach, including a weight of evidence approach, for
4.6 The selection and application of analytical methods and
assessment,remediation,andmonitoringofcontaminatedsedi-
test procedures for sediment programs is an evolving science.
ments.
This guide provides a systematic but flexible decision frame-
4.14 Use of this guide is consistent with the Sediment-
work to accommodate variations in approaches by regulatory
RBCA process which guides the user to acquire and evaluate
agency and by user based on project objectives, site
additional data, obtain the appropriate data and refine goals,
complexity, unique site features, programmatic and regulatory
objectives, receptors, exposure pathways, and the site concep-
requirements, newly developed guidance, newly published
tualmodel.AstheSediment-RBCAprocessproceeds,dataand
scientific research, use of alternative scientifically-based meth-
conclusions reached at each tier help focus subsequent tiered
ods and procedures, changes in regulatory criteria, advances in
evaluation. This integrative process results in efficient, cost-
scientific knowledge and technical capability, multiple lines of
effective decision-making and timely, appropriate response
evidence approach, and unforeseen circumstances.
actions for contaminated sediment programs.
4.7 The user of this guide should review the overall struc-
4.15 Planning Framework—When applying this guide, the
ture and components of this guide before proceeding with use,
user should undertake a systematic project planning and
including:Section1-Scope;Section2-References;Section3
scoping process to collect information to assist in making
- Terminology; Section 4 - Significance and Use. The remain-
site-specific, user-defined decisions for a particular project.
der of this guide is organized as a tool kit to support the
Planning activities should include the following factors: (a)
selection and application of a range of test methods and
Assemble an experienced team of project professionals; (b)
procedures that may be used at various stages of a sediment
Engage stakeholders early and often in the planning process;
program, including: Section 5 - Physical Property Test Meth-
(c) Define, agree on, and document clearly stated project
ods; Section 6 - Chemistry Analytical Methods; Section 7 -
objectivesandintendedoutcomes; (d)Recognizethatsediment
Passive Sampling Methods; Section 8 - Biological Test Meth-
programs are complex, uncertainty is high, that an appropriate
ods; Section 9 - Environmental ForensicsAnalytical Methods;
projectspecificapproachmaybedevelopedwiththeinvestment
and Section 10 - Analytical Methods Development. Nonman-
of time and effort, and that compromise and uncertainty are
datory Appendix X1 – Appendix X13 provide users of this
inherent in the process; (e) Identify the applicable regulatory
guide with additional information. A list of References and a
program(s); (f) Compile existing site data; and (g) Establish a
Bibliography are provided at the end of this guide.
plan for documenting and reporting key decisions and results.
4.8 Project Scoping and Planning—Thisguidesupportsthat
Theseprojectplanningandscopingactivitiesshouldbecarried
systematic planning process for selection and application of
forward as the project progresses.
analytical procedures used for sediment programs. The use of
4.16 Experience and Expertise—The users of this guide
this guide compliments applicable existing guidance used to
should consider assembling a team of experienced project
develop a Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) and to
professionals with appropriate expertise to scope, plan and
establish data quality objectives (DQO) necessary to meet
execute a sediment data acquisition program. The team may
project goals and to fully understand data quality.This process
include: regulatory agencies, project sponsors, environmental
encouragesplannerstoidentifyandfocusonthekeyissuesthat
consultants, toxicologists, risk assessors, site remediation
must be addressed and resolved for successful, cost-effective,
professionals, environmental contractors, analytical testing
and defensible project outcomes.
laboratories, and data reviewers, data validators, data users,
4.9 Theuseofthisguidealsosupportsthedevelopmentand
and other stakeholders.
refinement of a Conceptual Site Model (CSM) as part of the
4.17 Stakeholders—The users of this guide are encouraged
planning process for site activities that involve gathering
to engage key stakeholders early and often in the project
environmental data.
planning and scoping process, especially regulators, project
4.10 Implementation of the guide is site-specific. The user
sponsors, and service providers including analytical testing
of this guide may choose to customize the implementation of
laboratories.Aconcertedongoingeffortshouldbemadebythe
the guide for particular types and/or phases of sediment
guide user to continuously engage stakeholders as the project
programs.
progresses in order to gain insight, technical support and input
for resolving technical issues and challenges that may arise
4.11 This guide may be initiated at any time during a
during project implementation.
sedimentprogram,including:sitecharacterization,assessment,
remedy selection, remedial design, remedial implementation,
4.18 Documentation—The users of this guide should estab-
remedial operation and maintenance, baseline and long-term
lish a plan for documenting and reporting the results of the
monitoring, remedy optimization, and corrective action.
project planning process, including: key challenges, options
4.12 Useofthisguidesupportstheuseofsystematicproject considered, decisions taken, data acquisition approach, data
planning, dynamic work strategies, use of innovative sampling results, and project outcomes relative to project objectives.
E3163 − 18
Project documentation may include: ProjectWork Plans, Sam- sediment.Althoughthechemicalcompositionandchemistryof
pling and Analysis Plans (SAP), Quality Assurance Project the porewater may influence these fundamental properties to a
Plans (QAPP), Technical Memos, and Project Reports. The degree, these are generally minor influences and do not affect
usermustensurethatthetestmethodsusedmeettheanalytical the selection and use of physical property tests.
rigor required by the regulatory agency or agencies having
5.3 Sediment physical properties have significant impacts
oversight authority for the project.
on how sediment functions in the environment and are there-
4.19 The users of this guide are encouraged to continuously
fore important components of the conceptual site model.
update and refine the project Conceptual Site Model (CSM),
Knowledge of physical properties has many uses during every
Work Plans and Reports used to describe the physical
phase of sediment programs, from initial assessment through
properties, chemical composition and occurrence, biologic
corrective actions and finally closure. For example, measure-
features,andenvironmentalconditionsofthesedimentproject.
ments of sediment physical properties provide information on
sediment behaviors such as deposition, erosion, and re-
4.20 Key Considerations—This guide supports users in the
suspension, habitat types for plants and animals, groundwater
identification of key considerations for designing and imple-
tosurfacewaterseepage,andassessmentofgasgenerationand
menting sediment program data acquisition plans, including
ebullition facilitated NAPL transport. The physical properties,
discussion of applicability and use limitations of analytical
such as density, water, hydraulic conductivity, and plasticity,
methods and testing procedures.
also provide useful information for remedial purposes includ-
4.21 Challenges—Thisguideisdesignedtoassisttheuserin
ing the ability of the sediments to be dredged, dewatered, and
more fully understanding and navigating the challenges inher-
handled once removed from the water, and the ability of the
ent in the selection and application of analytical methods and
sediments to support caps.
test procedures for use in sediment programs, specifically
5.4 Thisguidedoesnotprovideacomprehensivediscussion
challenges in generating analytical data of sufficient sensitivity
of the analyses that may be warranted in remedial selection or
to support the stringent regulatory screening levels applied to
design, and it is not intended to provide guidance for geotech-
sediment programs. USEPA (2005a) (1) has long recognized
nical testing or analysis of sediments. However, many of the
the challenges associated with sediment programs, as summa-
physical property analyses presented would be needed in
rized below:
evaluating remedial actions.
4.21.1 Sources may be various, large, ongoing, and/or
difficult to control,
5.5 Overview:
4.21.2 Impacts may be diffuse, large, and diverse,
5.5.1 The physical properties of sediment are utilized
4.21.3 Environment may be dynamic, increasing the diffi-
throughout the investigation including development of the
culty in understanding effects of natural forces and man-made
Conceptual Site Model (CSM), site characterization, risk
events on sediment movement and stability and contaminant
evaluation,andmonitoringprocesses.Sincetheresultsofthese
fate and transport,
analysesareappliedthroughouttheenvironmentalprocess,itis
4.21.4 Cleanup work often involves engineering challenges
critical that the analyses conducted are appropriately per-
and higher costs than for other media,
formed. This section of the guide documents the key param-
4.21.5 Mixed land uses and numerous property owners and
eters that can describe the physical characteristics of
communities with differing views, opinions, and impacts often
sediments, the methods that are applied to quantify the
complicate cleanup efforts, and
parameters,andthesamplingprotocolsforphysicalparameters
4.21.6 Ecologically valuable resources and/or legislatively
testing. One of the challenges faced by practitioners working
protected species or habitats may be present.
with sediments is accurately defining and interpreting physical
properties of sediments
5. Physical Property Test Methods
5.5.2 Many of the inferences relied upon in land-based
5.1 This section of the guide discusses the selection and
programs, may not be appropriate to apply in sediments.
application of physical property test methods to characterize
Sediments may exhibit significant differences compared to soil
sediment sites for the evaluation of risk. This section of the
for several key physical properties. In particular, sediments
guide contains a general discussion of tools and common
typically have higher porosities and higher moisture contents
methods separated via stratigraphic and internal scale of
than land-based soils. As a result, sediment bulk densities are
analysis.
significantly lower and more variable than soils.
5.2 Theguideisintendedtoprovidetechnicaldirectionwith
5.5.3 Due to the differences in variability in porosity and
respect to the fundamental physical properties to enable an
bulk density between land-based soils and sediments, similar
independent and comprehensive description of the sediment to
values of common parameters such as concentration and
support general environmental investigations. Physical prop-
saturation cannot be assumed to be consistent between these
erty measurements provide quantitative understanding of the
media. For example, the concentration of a chemical com-
size,composition,andconsolidationoftheparticlescomposing
pound in soils and sediment is reported on a dry weight basis
the sediment and the capacity for water to move through the
(that is, mg/Kg). Due to the variability and significant differ-
ences in bulk densities of sediments relative to soils, direct
comparison of concentration values between soils and sedi-
Theboldfacenumbersinparenthesesrefertothelistofreferencesattheendof
this standard. ments may not be technically valid. A two to four-fold
E3163 − 18
differencemayoccurbetweentheBulkDensityvaluesbetween may be more practicable methods to collect an intact sample.
sediments and soils, which then produces a two to four-fold However, each drilling technique will have positive and
mass per volume difference between these media. This differ-
negative attributes. In particular, the disturbance of the sedi-
ence as well as many others relative to soils can affect
ment structure by these methods will require an independent,
perspectives on risk, remedial mass, and porewater volume.
site-specific assessment.
Hence, the recognition of the importance of measuring sedi-
5.6.5 Otherphysicalpropertiesanalyses(forexample,grain
ment physical properties is critical throughout the sediment
size, water content, Atterberg limits) can be performed on
evaluation, corrective action, and monitoring phases. Further
disturbed samples, which can be collected from grab or core
information on the differences in soil and sediment is further
samples. Appendix X2 discusses the collection of sediment
discussed in Appendix X1.
samples for physical property analyses conducted for charac-
5.5.4 Inthesedimentenvironment,physicalparametersmay
terization purposes. Discussion of the collection of sediment
vary vertically and laterally within the sediment profile. For
samples for higher level geotechnical testing for engineering
example, in many cases, the bulk density of the sediment
design applications (including hydraulic conductivity,
increases with depth as consolidation of the sediment column
consolidation, and shear strength) is beyond the scope of this
occurs. This reduces porosity and the sediment moisture
document .
content. Hence, a comprehensive sampling program is needed
to fully characterize the sedimentary environment.
5.7 Sediment Characterization:
5.5.5 Physical properties are important in numerous facets
5.7.1 Since sediments are deposited and are generally com-
oftheevaluation,remediation,andmonitoringofcontaminated
posedofaseriesoflayersthathaveaccumulatedthroughtime,
sediments. Physical properties aid in defining such key CSM
scale becomes an important component in the characterization
components as (1) the depositional energy of the site, (2) the
process. In particular, the sample(s) obtained from a sediment
rate and form of sedimentation, (3) the stratigraphy of the
core should be representative of a select sediment interval.
sedimentcolumn, (4)thenatureofthesedimentporestructure,
5.7.2 In general, the characterization process should be
and (5) the movement of fluids within the sediment.
conducted whereby the stratigraphic characteristics of the
5.5.6 Moreover, the physical properties may provide key
sediment are described first, followed by subsequent investi-
information as to the origin and source of contamination, the
gation of the internal structure of the sediment.
formanddistributionofthecontamination,andthemobilityof
5.7.3 This may require more than one co-located core,
the contamination, which are critical elements in evaluating
whereintact,non-disturbedsamplesareneeded.Thefollowing
risk.
analyses are discussed with respect to the scale evaluated.
5.6 Sediment Collection:
5.6.1 Sediment collection for physical properties testing 5.8 Stratigraphic Physical Analyses:
may be performed by the general methods of grab samples,
5.8.1 Upon retrieval, sediment cores utilized for descriptive
cores,andborings.Grabsamplesdisturbthesedimentstructure
observationsmaybehandledinasimilarmannerasland-based
and include sediment collected from ponar, box or similar
cores.
methods. Grab samples may also include sediment from cores
5.8.2 Specifically, the sediment is extracted from the core
where hand samples are collected. Core samples refer to
tube and is examined visually with characteristics of color,
sediment collected within a continuous core tube driven or
texture, moisture, and stratification being recorded. Visual
vibrated into the sediment.The sediment is retained within the
observations of the particles and their arrangement provide the
container and, if handled and capped appropriately, provides a
basistodiscernarepresentativesamplefromadefinedinterval.
representative sample of the sediment column. Borings are
As such, a hand lens should be used to describe the size and
generallyusedtoobtainarelativelyundisturbedsample,which
shape of the particles considering such characteristics as
is critical to obtaining accurate measurement values for many
roundness, sphericity, and mineralogy. The distribution of the
physicalproperties.Boringsaredrilledintothesedimentusing
particlesizesshouldalsobedescribedandtherelativeconsoli-
equipment similar to land borings and relatively undisturbed
dation of the sediment. Shallow sediments, in particular, may
sediment samples are collected at discrete depth intervals.
act as a fluid due to their high water content and lack of
5.6.2 Methods for collecting sediment samples for physical
consolidation. From these descriptions, the macroscale com-
testing are described in several of the ASTM methods in
ponentsofthesediment,suchasstratificationandthecharacter
Section 2 including Test Method D1586, as well as in EPRI
andnatureofcontacts,areidentified.Thesefeaturesultimately
(2008) (2),ITRC(2014) (3),NationalResearchCouncil(2007)
define representative intervals from which samples can be
(4), NAVFAC (2003) (5), NAVFAC/SPAWAR (2010) (6),
collected to further refine the visual observations.
USACE (1998, 2008) (7, 8), and USEPA(2001, 2005b, 2014)
5.8.3 When appropriate, observations and measurements
(9-11), as well as state regulatory agency documents.
associated with organic or other constituents can be made. If
5.6.3 Someoftheanalysesperformedforsedimentphysical
properties (including bulk density, porosity, saturation, and safe conditions exist, odors should be documented and de-
permeability) require an intact, relatively undisturbed sample, scribed.OrganicvapormeasurementscanbemadeusingPhoto
which can be collected from borings.
Ionization Detection (PID) equipment and identification of
separate phase organic liquids may be identified by applying
5.6.4 In finer grained sediments, vibracore, Geoprobe, or
use of thin-walled tubes, or a combination thereof, in borings UV light.
E3163 − 18
5.8.4 By defining the elevation of the water surface and the 5.9.1 Characterization of the internal nature of the sediment
depth of the water during the collection process, the elevation entails measurement of numerous properties to evaluate the
(relativetoabenchmark)ofthemeasurementsandsamplescan
particlesizeanddistributionandthefluidscontainedwithinthe
be determined.
pore structure. In general, with depth sediments become
5.8.5 Thecollecteddataisthenpresentedinasedimentcore
compacted, which changes the physical properties of the
log. A comprehensive description of the sediment is the
sediment.
fundamental basis from which sediment profile is discerned
5.9.2 The following discusses the measurement of physical
and isthetechnicaldocument to which laboratory results,both
properties that are commonly applied to characterize sedi-
physical and chemical, are ultimately referenced.
ments. The applicable Method Reference, preferred sample
5.8.6 The collection and description of several cores will
volume/size, preservation requirements, and holding time con-
produce an understanding of the sediment stratigraphy. The
straints are summarized in Table 1.
stratigraphy will document changes in sediment texture later-
5.9.3 Grain Size—Grainsizeisoneofthemostfundamental
ally and vertically and the nature of the contact between the
sediment characteristics. Test Methods D6913/D6913M Sieve
different sediment layers.
analysis, Test Method D4464 Laser Diffraction analysis, and
5.8.7 These features will provide an understanding of the
depositional conditions during the past. If the contamination Test Method D7928 Hydrometer analysis provide information
was derived from sedimentation, then the stratigraphy will on sediment consisting primarily of clay to sand size particles.
document the physical conditions that were occurring during
In these analyses, particles sizes larger than 75 microns (µm)
the time period of contamination. Appendix X3 provides
are measured by sieves and particles less than 75 µm by
further information regarding sediment stratigraphy.
hydrometer. In addition to these methods, Test Method D4464
LaserDiffractionalsoprovideshighresolutionmeasurementof
5.9 Physical Property Analyses:
TABLE 1 Summary of Typical Sample Volume, Preservation and Holding Time Requirements
A B
Test Description Method Reference Typical Sample Volume/Size Preservation Holding Time
C
GRAIN SIZE
D
Grain Size Analysis: Dry Sieve Only Test Methods D6913/D6913M 200-500 g; core, bag or jar —
D
Grain Size Analysis: Laser Diffraction Test Method D4464 50-100 g; core, bag or jar —
D,EF
Particle Size Analysis - Water: Laser Diffrac- Test Method D4464 1-2 L of water
tion
D
Grain Size Analysis: Dry Sieve + Laser Dif- Test Methods D6913/D6913M-17 200-500 g; core, bag or jar —
fraction “Combined analysis”
D
Grain Size Analysis: Dry Sieve + Hydrometer Test Methods D6913/D6913M-17 200-500 g; core, bag or jar —
D
Particle-Size Distribution (Gradation) of Fine- Test Method D7928-16 200-500 g; core, bag or jar
Grained Soils using the Sedimentation (Hy-
drometer) Analysis
BULK DENSITY
D,G,H
Bulk Density (dry unit weight) Test Method D2937 / Test Methods 2.5 in. diam. × 6 in. long sleeve core —
D7263 or API RP40
WATER CONTENT
D,G
Water Content Test Methods D2216 50-100 g; core, bag or jar —
POROSITY
D,G,H
Porosity: Total Test Methods D854—14 / API RP40 2.5 in. diam. × 6 in. long sleeve core —
D,G,H
Porosity: Air or Water-Filled Test Methods D854-14 / API RP40 2.5 in. diam. × 6 in. long sleeve core —
HYDRAULIC CONDUCTIVITY
D,G,H
Hydraulic Conductivity: Saturated; flexible API RP40, EPA9100, Test Meth- 2.5 in. diam. × 6 in. long sleeve core —
wall triaxial odsD5084
ATTERBERG LIMITS AND CLASSIFICATION
D,G
Atterberg Limits; Plastic & Liquid Limits Test MethodsD4318 100-500 g; core, bag or jar —
D,G
Classification: Engineering USCS Practice D2487 Requires Grain Size + Atterberg —
D,G
Classification: Visual / Manual Practice D2488 100-500 g; core, bag or jar —
MINERALOGY
D
Bulk and Clay Mineralogy USGS Open-File Report 200-500 g —
A
Typical sample size is the volume or core type needed to obtain undisturbed or minimally disturbed material for testing in laboratory instruments or apparatus, or both.
The requested core sample size is a 2.5 in. diameter. × 6 in. long brass sleeved core or similar volume. Core types suitable for submittal are brass or stainless steel
rings/sleeves, acetate sleeved core (from direct-push or continuous coring methods) Shelby tubes, PVC sleeves, etc.
B
There are no recognized holding times for many conventional physical properties analyses or core analysis tests. Indefinite holding times may be appropriate if it can
be demonstrated that the test results are not adversely affected from preservation or storage. Selection of core size/containers, preservation techniques and applicable
holding times should be based on the stated project-specific data quality objectives. Samples should be analyzed as soon as possible to provide data measured at
as-received conditions.
C
Reported volumes are provided as a general guide. The sample volume depends on particle size of the sediment. When particles are up to 75 mm in size, sample
volumes up to 5 kilograms may be required.
D
Keep sealed.
E
Keep cool, chilled at 4 °C is required.
F
Water samples should be analyzed within 7 days of sample receipt.
G
Keep cool, chilled at 4 °C is recommended.
H
Minimally disturbed samples recommended.
E3163 − 18
the sand through fine clay particle fractions (2 mm to submi- and Moisture Content results (see formulas in Test Methods
cron range).This analysis may be needed for very fine grained D7263 and NAVFAC 1986 (14)).
sediments. Additional methods for the measurement of fine
5.9.7 SpecificGravity—Specificgravityisthedensityofsoil
grain sediments that have been utilized include the Puget
divided by the density of water. Specific gravity is the ratio
Sound Estuary Protocols (PSEP) (USEPA, 1986, 1997, 2015a)
between density of the soil or sediment particles and the
(12, 13), which utilizes a pipette approach, and the Coulter
density of water at 4°C. The specific gravity is used to
counter,whichutilizeselectriccurrentsinelectrolytesolutions.
correlate the mass and volume of a material. Test Methods
Theselectionofthetestmethodemployedforagivensediment
D854 describe the measurement of specific gravity.
investigation needs to consider many factors including project
5.9.8 Hydraulic Conductivity (Permeability)—Hydraulic
data quality objectives, intended data uses, cost, and technical
conductivity is the rate of discharge of water under laminar
acceptance.
flow conditions through a unit cross-sectional area of porous
5.9.4 Bulk Density—BulkDensitycanbemeasuredonadry
medium under a unit hydraulic gradient and standard tempera-
or wet basis. In Test Methods D7263 discusses the measure-
ture conditions (20°C). Test Methods D5084 describes the
ment of bulk density on a dry basis. The density of the
measurement of hydraulic conductivity of water-saturated
sediment is expressed as the mass of the sediment divided by
porous materials with a flexible wall permeameter at tempera-
the volume of sediment, and is usually reported in grams per
turesbetween15and30°C.Themethoddescribessixmethods
cubic centimeter (g/cm ). This is based on dry unit weight.
to measure the hydraulic conductivity.
Bulk density depends on mineral composition and degree of
5.9.9 Atterberg Limits—The Atterberg limits are a basic
compaction.Sedimentdry-bulkdensityvaluesareusedinmass
measureoftheplasticityofafine-grained(thatis,siltandclay)
accumulation rate calculations.
sediment. The analysis determines the moisture content where
NOTE 1—Shallow sediments, in particular, may act as a fluid due to the
the material begins to act in a plastic state which is defined as
high water content and lack of compaction; special sample preparation
methods such as freezing subsamples may need to be employed in the the plastic limit and the moisture content where the material
laboratoryforcertainanalyses.InTestMethodD2937themeasurementof
begins to act in a liquid state which is defined as the liquid
bulk density on a wet basis is described. The density of the sediment is
limit. The changes in behavior and consistency are character-
expressed as the wet mass of sediment divided by the volume and is
ized as fine grained sediment takes on increasing amounts of
reported in pounds per cubic foot.
water. Depending on the water content of the sediment, the
5.9.4.1 Dry or wet unit weights can be calculated using
sediment may appear in four states: solid, semi-solid, plastic
formulas given in soil mechanics references such as Design
and liquid. In Test Methods D4318 the measurement of the
Manual 7.1, Soil Mechanics (NAVFAC, 1986) (14). For
Atterberg limits is described.
saturatedsediment,unitweightscanbecalculatedbasedonthe
5.9.10 Particle Form and Mineralogy—The form and type
water content, specific gravity of dry solid particles and the
of minerals present in the sediment are an important charac-
density of water.
teristic that influences both the physical and chemical condi-
5.9.5 Water Content—In Test Methods D2216 the measure-
tions of the sediment. Properties influenced by the sediment
ment of water content of the sediment is described. The
mineralogy include sorption, bulk density, porosity, hydraulic
geotechnical method for calculating moisture content on a
conductivity, water content, and Atterberg limits. Due to their
dry-weight basis is not comparable to the chemical method for
generally sheet-like structure and electrical surface charges,
calculatingpercentsolidsortotalsolidsonatotal-weightbasis
clay minerals are particularly important in affecting the physi-
orpercentwater(refertoSection6).Watercontentdetermined
cal and chemical conditions within a sediment. Moreover, the
byTestMethodsD2216iscalculatedasapercentoftheweight
composition of the clay mineral suite provides unique infor-
of the water divided by the weight of the dry sediment, which
mation regarding the upland source conditions. The USGS
can result in moisture contents greater than 100%.
Open File Report 01-041 (USGS, 2001) (16) describes the
5.9.5.1 Percent solids are used to report chemical analytical
application of x-ray diffraction (XRD) to determine the min-
resultsonadryweightbasis(refertoSection6).Percentsolids
eralog
...