ASTM D1997-20

Standard Test Method for Laboratory Determination of the Fiber Content of Peat and Organic Soils by Dry Mass

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This test method is useful for determining the quantity of fibers in a peat or organic soil specimen. Fiber content is one parameter used to classify the peat as determined in Classification D4427. It is also a significant parameter in predicting or defining the many end uses of these materials. In this regard, fiber content has been related to agricultural and horticultural end uses (such as mulching and soil enrichment), geotechnical measurements (such as strength, compressibility, and permeability), industrial chemical uses (such as production of waxes, activated carbon, and medicines), and energy uses (such as direct combustion, methanol production, and gas yields).
Note 1: The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the laboratory determination of the fiber content of peat and organic soils by dry mass. Classification D4427 provides the methodology to classify peat as it is used in this standard.  
1.2 Pieces of plant material such as roots or wood, larger than 20 mm in smallest dimension are not considered fibers.  
1.3 Because this test method is simple and does not need sophisticated equipment in order to be performed, it is especially recommended for routine reconnaissance work where large numbers of samples need to be tested and mineral contents are low.  
1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard. Alternate sieve designations in parentheses are as provided in Specification E11.  
1.5 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026.  
1.6 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.  
1.7 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.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 29-Feb-2020
• ICS: 65.080 - Fertilizers
• Technical Committee: D18 - Soil and Rock
• Drafting Committee: D18.22 - Media for Plant Growth

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D1997-13 - Standard Test Method for Laboratory Determination of the Fiber Content of Peat Samples by Dry Mass
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2020
• Refers: ASTM D4753-24 - Standard Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Balances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and Construction Materials Testing
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM D3740-23 - Standard Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• 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 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 D3740-19 - Standard Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-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 D4427-13(2017) - Standard Classification of Peat Samples by Laboratory Testing
• Effective Date: 01-May-2017
• Refers: ASTM D4753-15 - Standard Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Balances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and Construction Materials Testing
• Effective Date: 01-May-2015
• Refers: ASTM D2974-14 - Standard Test Methods for Moisture, Ash, and Organic Matter of Peat and Other Organic Soils
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2014
• Refers: ASTM D653-14 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2014
• Refers: ASTM E11-13 - Standard Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2013
• Refers: ASTM D4427-13 - Standard Classification of Peat Samples by Laboratory Testing
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2013
• Refers: ASTM D2974-13 - Standard Test Methods for Moisture, Ash, and Organic Matter of Peat and Other Organic Soils
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2013
• Refers: ASTM D3740-12a - Standard Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in Engineering Design and Construction
• Effective Date: 01-May-2012

Overview

ASTM D1997-20 is the Standard Test Method for Laboratory Determination of the Fiber Content of Peat and Organic Soils by Dry Mass. Developed by ASTM International, this standard sets forth a reliable and straightforward laboratory procedure for quantifying the fiber content of peat and organic soils. The fiber percentage is a critical characteristic for the classification and assessment of peat, supporting a broad range of geotechnical, agricultural, horticultural, industrial, and energy-related applications. The method involves minimal equipment and is ideal for routine laboratory analysis of multiple samples, especially in settings where mineral content is low.

Key Topics

• Peat and Organic Soil Classification: Fiber content is essential in identifying and classifying peat, as stated in ASTM D4427, by distinguishing materials based on their organic composition.
• Simplicity and Applicability: This test does not require sophisticated laboratory equipment, making it especially useful for field reconnaissance, research, and high-throughput sample processing.
• Sample Selection and Preparation: Guidance is provided on how to select, quarter, and prepare a representative specimen for analysis, excluding plant material or roots larger than 20 mm in smallest dimension.
• Test Procedure: The method details soaking samples in a dispersing agent, washing through standard sieves, hydrochloric acid treatment, and oven-drying to constant mass. Fiber content is determined by mass difference and expressed as a percentage of the initial dry mass.
• Data Reporting and Standards Compliance: The standard emphasizes the importance of recording all relevant data in accordance with ASTM reporting practices, including adherence to significant digits per ASTM D6026.
• Competence of Personnel: Results depend on the capability of the personnel and the suitability of laboratory facilities, with reference to Practice D3740 for evaluating agency competence.

Applications

• Agriculture and Horticulture: The determination of fiber content supports decision-making for using peat and organic soils in mulching, soil amendment, or enrichment.
• Geotechnical Engineering: Fiber content impacts the assessment of strength, compressibility, and permeability of soils, influencing design and construction in civil engineering.
• Industrial Uses: Quantifying organic fiber content is significant for industries utilizing peat in producing activated carbon, waxes, or medicinal products.
• Energy Production: Analysis of fiber content informs processes related to combustion, gasification, and methanol production from organic soils and peat resources.
• Soil Classification and Research: The method supports scientific studies and soil classification initiatives, contributing to the data needed for environmental management and land use planning.
• Routine Laboratory Testing: Due to its straightforward protocol, the test is practical for laboratories handling large volumes of samples where rapid, reliable results are needed.

Related Standards

• ASTM D4427: Standard Classification of Peat Samples by Laboratory Testing
• ASTM D653: Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• ASTM D2216: Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
• ASTM D2974: Test Methods for Determining Water, Ash, and Organic Content of Peat and Other Organic Soils
• ASTM D3740: Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing or Inspection of Soil and Rock
• ASTM D4753: Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Balances for Soil, Rock, and Construction Materials Testing
• ASTM D6026: Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical Data
• ASTM D6913: Test Methods for Particle-Size Distribution (Gradation) of Soils Using Sieve Analysis
• ASTM E11: Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Sieves

Conclusion

ASTM D1997-20 plays a vital role in providing a standardized, reproducible method for the determination of fiber content in peat and organic soils by dry mass. Its importance spans soil classification, geotechnical assessment, agriculture, industry, and research, offering a basis for data-driven decisions in multiple sectors. Adhering to this standard ensures consistent, high-quality results, supporting both practical applications and scientific advancements in the use and study of peat and organic soils.

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: D1997 − 20
Standard Test Method for
Laboratory Determination of the Fiber Content of Peat and
Organic Soils by Dry Mass
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D1997; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This test method covers the laboratory determination of
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
the fiber content of peat and organic soils by dry mass.
Fluids
ClassificationD4427providesthemethodologytoclassifypeat
D2216 Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water
as it is used in this standard.
(Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
1.2 Pieces of plant material such as roots or wood, larger
D2974 Test Methods for Determining the Water (Moisture)
than 20 mm in smallest dimension are not considered fibers.
Content, Ash Content, and Organic Material of Peat and
Other Organic Soils
1.3 Because this test method is simple and does not need
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies
sophisticated equipment in order to be performed, it is espe-
Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as
cially recommended for routine reconnaissance work where
Used in Engineering Design and Construction
large numbers of samples need to be tested and mineral
D4427 Classification of Peat Samples by Laboratory Testing
contents are low.
D4753 Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Bal-
1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded
ances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and
as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
Construction Materials Testing
standard. Alternate sieve designations in parentheses are as
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical
provided in Specification E11.
Data
D6913 Test Methods for Particle-Size Distribution (Grada-
1.5 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the
tion) of Soils Using Sieve Analysis
guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test
Practice D6026.
Sieves
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
3. Terminology
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3.1 Definitions:
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
3.1.1 For definitions of common technical terms used in this
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
standard, refer to Terminology D653.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard- 3
4. Summary of Test Method
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
4.1 A sample of peat or organic soil is reduced using
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
quartering to obtain a representative sample. The representa-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
tive sample is further reduced via quartering to obtain a test
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
ThistestmethodisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeD18onSoiland contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.22 on Media for Plant Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Growth. the ASTM website.
Current edition approved March 1, 2020. Published March 2020. Originally This test method is a modified version of one described in: Riley, J. L.,
approved in 1991. Last previous edition approved in 2013 as D1997 – 13. DOI: “Laboratory Methods for Testing Peat,” Ontario Peatland Inventory Project,
10.1520/D1997-20. Ontario Geological Survey Open File Report 5572, 1986, pp. 21–22.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D1997 − 20
specimen. A portion of the test specimen is used to obtain a 6.6 Washing Sink with a Water Delivery System—A sink or
water content determination.Another portion of the test speci- other suitable receptacle having a mechanism to deliver a
men is placed in a beaker and mixed with a dispersing agent stream of water directly to the sieve. The delivery system may
and allowed to stand for approximately 15 h. The mixture is be a rigid or flexible line to facilitate washing. Preferably, the
thenpouredoverasievestack.Materialslargerthan20mmare system will include a spray nozzle capable of easily adjusting
removed and the remaining specimen is washed until the water the flow of water and must have the ability to regulate the
runs clear. Then, the sieve with the specimen is soaked in HCl temperature of the water. A rubber hose connected to a water
for 10 min and rewashed. The specimen is then filtered. The faucet is also acceptable. The water must be close to room
specimen retained on the filter and the filter paper is then dried temperature to avoid expansion or contraction of the sieve
to constant mass. The fiber content is then calculated. cloth. A rubber hose connected to a water faucet is also
acceptable
5. Significance and Use
6.7 Funnel—A large funnel used in conjunction with num-
ber 4 filter paper (20-25 µm pore size, very fast flow rate).
5.1 This test method is useful for determining the quantity
offibersinapeatororganicsoilspecimen.Fibercontentisone
6.8 Miscellaneous Items—Items such as spoons, spatulas,
parameter used to classify the peat as determined in Classifi-
wash/rinse bottle (squirt bottle), shallow pan/tank, rubber
cation D4427. It is also a significant parameter in predicting or
scraper, non-absorbent surface, water proof containers are
defining the many end uses of these materials. In this regard,
useful.
fiber content has been related to agricultural and horticultural
end uses (such as mulching and soil enrichment), geotechnical
7. Reagents
measurements (such as strength, compressibility, and
7.1 Purity of Reagents—Reagent grade chemicals shall be
permeability), industrial chemical uses (such as production of
used in all tests. Unless otherwise indicated, it is intended that
waxes, activated carbon, and medicines), and energy uses
all reagents conform to the specifications of the Committee on
(such as direct combustion, methanol production, and gas
Analytical Reagents of the American Chemical Society where
yields).
such specifications are available.
NOTE 1—The quality of the result produced by this standard is
7.2 Hydrochloric Acid (HCl)—2 % solution.
dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the
suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the 7.3 Sodium Hexametaphosphate—5 % solution. Also re-
criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent
ferred to as sodium metaphosphate is the dispersion agent.
and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are
When making the 5% solution, the solution should be used
cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure
within 1 week of creation.
reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740
provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
7.4 Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for specific infor-
mation regarding these chemicals.
6. Apparatus
8. Sampling and Test Specimens
6.1 Sieve—A 150-µm (No. 100) sieve and 19 mm ( ⁄4 in.)
sieve. The sieve cloth of the 150-µm (No. 100) sieve must be
8.1 This test method does not address, in any detail,
made of stainless steel to offer more resistance to wear and
procurement of the sample. It is assumed the sample is
damage. These sieves must conform to the requirements given
obtainedusingappropriatemethodsandisrepresentativeofthe
in Specification E11.
peat or organic soil under evaluation.
6.2 Drying Oven—Vented, thermostatically controlled oven 8.2 Work rapidly to prevent changes in water content or
capable of maintaining a uniform temperature of 110°C 6 5°C perform the sample and specimen preparation in an environ-
throughout the drying chamber. The oven shall not have any ment where the humidity is high (>50 %). Place the sample on
“hot spots.” The uniformity of the oven’s temperature shall be a non-absorbent surface, such as a rubber sheet or oil cloth and
verified annually and the temperature should be checked or mix thoroughly. Use quartering to obtain a representative
monitored as detailed in Test Methods D2216 (Note 2). sample that will yield 600 g or more. Put any unused sample in
a tightly-sealed, labeled, waterproof container.
NOTE 2—The temperature of the drying oven is very important for
organic
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D1997 − 13 D1997 − 20
Standard Test Method for
Laboratory Determination of the Fiber Content of Peat
Samples and Organic Soils by Dry Mass
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D1997; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope*
1.1 This test method covers the laboratory determination of the fiber content of peat (as defined in and organic soils by dry mass.
Classification D4427) by dry mass. It also may be used for non-peat organic soil materials. provides the methodology to classify
peat as it is used in this standard.
1.2 Pieces of plant material such as roots or wood, larger than 20 mm in smallest dimension are not considered fibers.
1.3 Because this test method is simple and requires no does not need sophisticated equipment to perform, in order to be
performed, it is especially recommended for routine reconnaissance work,work where large numbers of samples need to be tested
and mineral contents are low.
1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
standard. Alternate sieve designations in parentheses are as provided in Specification E11. Use Practice D6026 for determining
significant digits to report.
1.5 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice
D6026.
1.6 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 safety, health, and healthenvironmental practices and determine the
applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.7 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
D2216 Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
D2974 Test Methods for Determining the Water (Moisture) Content, Ash Content, and Organic Material of Peat and Other
Organic Soils
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in
Engineering Design and Construction
D4427 Classification of Peat Samples by Laboratory Testing
D4753 Guide for Evaluating, Selecting, and Specifying Balances and Standard Masses for Use in Soil, Rock, and Construction
Materials Testing
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical Data
D6913 Test Methods for Particle-Size Distribution (Gradation) of Soils Using Sieve Analysis
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.22 on Soil as a Medium Media
for Plant Growth.
Current edition approved June 1, 2013March 1, 2020. Published July 2013March 2020. Originally approved in 1991. Last previous edition approved in 20082013 as
ε1
D1997 – 91D1997 (2008) – 13. . DOI: 10.1520/D1997-13.10.1520/D1997-20.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D1997 − 20
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For common definitions of terms in this standard, refer to Terminology D653.
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of common technical terms used in this standard, refer to Terminology D653.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 fiber—a fragment or piece of plant tissue that retains a recognizable cellular structure and is large enough to be retained
on a 150-μm (No. 100) sieve. Plant materials larger than 20 mm in smallest dimension are not considered fibers.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 A known mass of intact, undried peat is soaked in a dispersing agent (5 % sodium hexametaphosphate) sample of peat or
organic soil is reduced using quartering to obtain a representative sample. The representative sample is further reduced via
quartering to obtain a test specimen. A portion of the test specimen is used to obtain a water content determination. Another portion
of the test specimen is placed in a beaker and mixed with a dispersing agent and allowed to stand for approximately 15 h. The
materialmixture is then washed through a 150-μm (No. 100) sieve (see Specificationpoured over a sieve stack. Materials E11) by
application of a gentle flow of tap water. The fibrous material left on the sieve is oven-dried (at 110 6 5°C) until the mass does
not change more than 0.1 % per hour. The mass of fiber is expressed as a percentage of the oven-dried mass of the original
sample.larger than 20 mm are removed and the remaining specimen is washed until the water runs clear. Then, the sieve with the
specimen is soaked in HCl for 10 min and rewashed. The specimen is then filtered. The specimen retained on the filter and the
filter paper is then dried to constant mass. The fiber content is then calculated.
NOTE 1—The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the
equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective
testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable
results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 The purpose of this test method is to standardize the procedure for determining fiber content of peat by dry mass.
5.1 A standard This test method is useful for determining the quantity of fibers in a peat sample is necessary not only for
classifying peats and organic soils (as or organic soil specimen. Fiber content is one parameter used to classify the peat as
determined in Classification D4427), but. It is also a significant parameter in predicting or defining the many end uses of these
materials. In this regard, fiber content has been related to agricultural and horticultural end uses (such as mulching, soil enrichment,
etc.), mulching and soil enrichment), geotechnical measurements (such as strength, compressibility, permeability, etc.),and
permeability), industrial chemical uses (such as production of waxes, activated carbon, medicines, etc.), and even and medicines),
and energy uses (such as direct combustion, methanol production, and gas yields, etc.).yields).
NOTE 1—The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the
equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective
testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable
results depend on many factors; Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Sieve, Sieve—A 150-μm (No. 100) (in compliance with sieve and 19 mm ( ⁄4 in.) sieve. The sieve cloth of the 150-μm (No.
100) sieve must be made of stainless steel to offer more resistance to wear and damage. These sieves must conform to the
requirements given in Specification E11).
6.2 Drying Oven, Oven— capable of being set at 110°C 6 5°C.Vented, thermostatically controlled oven capable of maintaining
a uniform temperature of 110°C 6 5°C throughout the drying chamber. The oven shall not have any “hot spots.” The uniformity
of the oven’s temperature shall be verified annually and the temperature should be checked or monitored as detailed in Test
Methods D2216 (Note 2).
NOTE 2—The temperature of the drying oven is very important for organic soils. Hot spots in the oven could alter the specimen. Care should be taken
when monitoring the oven’s temperature and placement of the specimens within the oven to avoid possible alteration.
6.3 Balance, Balance—capable of measuring at least to the nearest milligram.The balance shall conform to the requirements of
Guide D4753. The balance must have a minimum capacity of 200 g and have a readability without estimation of 0.001 g (1 mg).
6.4 Standard Laboratory Stirrer, Stirrer—A mechanical stirring device capable of being set toachieving and maintaining 240
r/min.
This test method is a modified version of one described in: Riley, J. L., “Laboratory Methods for Testing Peat,” Ontario Peatland Inventory Project, Ontario Geological
Survey Open File Report 5572, 1986, pp. 21–22.
D1997 − 20
6.5 Beaker, Beaker—1000-mL capacity.A glass or plastic beaker with a capacity of 1000-mL.
6.6 Funnel. Washing Sink with a Water Delivery System—A sink or other suitable receptacle having a mechanism to deliver a
stream of water directly to the sieve. The delivery system may be a rigid or flexible line to facilitate washing. Preferably, the system
will include a spray nozzle capable of easily adjusting the flow of water and must have the ability to regulate the temperature of
the water. A rubber hose connected to a water faucet is also acceptable. The water must be close to room temperature to avoid
expansion or contraction of the sieve cloth. A rubber hose connected to a water faucet is also acceptable
6.7 Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) Tank or Pan. Funnel—A large funnel used in conjunction with number 4 filter paper (20-25 μm
pore size, very fast flow rate).
6.8 Filter Paper. Miscellaneous Items—Items such as spoons, spatulas, wash/rinse bottle (squirt bottle), shallow pan/tank,
rubber scraper, non-absorbent surface, water proof containers are useful.
7. Reagents
7.1 Sodium Hexametaphosphate, Purity of Reagents— 5 % solution reagent grade.Reagent grade chemicals shall be used in all
tests. Unless otherwise indicated, it is intended that all reagents conform to the specifications of the Committee on Analytical
Reagents of the American Chemical Society where such specifications are available.
7.2 Hydrochloric Acid (HCl), (HCl)—2 % solution reagent grade.solution.
7.3 Sodium Hexametaphosphate—5 % solution. Also referred to as sodium metaphosphate is the dispersion agent. When
making the 5% solution, the solution should be used within 1 week of creation.
7.4 Consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for specific information regarding these chemicals.
8. Sampling and Test Specimens
8.
...