ASTM D6035/D6035M-19

Standard Test Methods for Determining the Effect of Freeze-Thaw on Hydraulic Conductivity of Compacted or Intact Soil Specimens Using a Flexible Wall Permeameter

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This test method identifies the changes in hydraulic conductivity as a result of freeze-thaw on natural soils only.  
4.2 It is the user's responsibility when using this test method to determine the appropriate water content of the laboratory-compacted specimens (that is, dry, wet, or at optimum water content) (Note 2).
Note 2: It is common practice to construct clay liners and covers at optimum or greater than optimum water content. Specimens compacted dry of optimum water content typically do not contain larger pore sizes as a result of freeze-thaw because the effects of freeze-thaw are minimized by the lack of water in the sample. Therefore, the effect of freeze-thaw on the hydraulic conductivity is minimal, or the hydraulic conductivity may increase slightly.3  
4.3 The requestor must provide information regarding the effective stresses to be applied during testing, especially for determining the final hydraulic conductivity. Using high effective stresses (that is, 35 kPa [5 psi] as allowed by Test Method D5084) can decrease an already increased hydraulic conductivity resulting in lower final hydraulic conductivity values. The long-term effect of freeze-thaw on the hydraulic conductivity of compacted soils is unknown. The increased hydraulic conductivity caused by freeze-thaw may be temporary. For example, the overburden pressure imparted by the waste placed on a soil liner in a landfill after being subjected to freeze-thaw may reduce the size of the cracks and pores that cause the increase in hydraulic conductivity. It is not known if the pressure would overcome the macroscopically increased hydraulic conductivity sufficiently to return the soil to its original hydraulic conductivity (prior to freeze-thaw). For cases such as landfill covers, where the overburden pressure is low, the increase in hydraulic conductivity due to freeze-thaw will likely be permanent. Thus, the requestor must take the application of the test method into account when establishi...
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover laboratory measurement of the effect of freeze-thaw on the hydraulic conductivity of compacted or intact soil specimens using Test Method D5084 and a flexible wall permeameter to determine hydraulic conductivity. These test methods do not provide steps to perform sampling of, or testing of, in situ soils that have already been subjected to freeze-thaw conditions. Test Method A uses a specimen for each hydraulic conductivity determination that is subjected to freeze/thaw while Test Method B uses one specimen for the entire test method (that is, the same specimen is used for each hydraulic conductivity).  
1.2 These test methods may be used with intact specimens (block or thin-walled) or laboratory compacted specimens and shall be used for soils that have an initial hydraulic conductivity less than or equal to 1E-5 m/s [3.94 E-4 in./s] (1E-3 cm/s) (Note 1).  
Note 1: The maximum initial hydraulic conductivity is given as 1 E-5 m/s [3.94 E-4 in./s]. This should also apply to the final hydraulic conductivity. It is expected that if the initial hydraulic conductivity is 1 E-5 m/s (3.94 E-4 in./s), then the final hydraulic conductivity will not change (increase) significantly (that is, greater than 1 E-5 m/s) (3.94 E-4 in./s).  
1.3 Soil specimens tested using this test method can be subjected to three-dimensional freeze-thaw (herein referred to as 3-d) or one-dimensional freeze-thaw (herein referred to as 1-d). (For a discussion of one-dimensional freezing versus three-dimensional freezing, refer to Zimmie and LaPlante or Othman, et al.2, 3)  
1.4 Soil specimens tested using this test method can be tested in a closed system (that is, no access to an external supply of water during freezing) or an open system.  
1.5 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026.  
1.5.1 The procedures used to specify how da...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Oct-2019
• ICS: 13.080.20 - Physical properties of soils
• Technical Committee: D18 - Soil and Rock
• Drafting Committee: D18.19 - Frozen Soils and Rock

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D6035/D6035M-13 - Standard Test Method for Determining the Effect of Freeze-Thaw on Hydraulic Conductivity of Compacted or Intact Soil Specimens Using a Flexible Wall Permeameter
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2019
• 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 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 D5084-16 - Standard Test Methods for Measurement of Hydraulic Conductivity of Saturated Porous Materials Using a Flexible Wall Permeameter
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2016
• Refers: ASTM D1587/D1587M-15 - Standard Practice for Thin-Walled Tube Sampling of Fine-Grained Soils for Geotechnical Purposes (Withdrawn 2024)
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2015
• Refers: ASTM D653-14 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2014
• 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
• Refers: ASTM D3740-12 - 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-Mar-2012
• Refers: ASTM D653-11 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2011
• Refers: ASTM D3740-11 - 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-Sep-2011
• Refers: ASTM D5084-10 - Standard Test Methods for Measurement of Hydraulic Conductivity of Saturated Porous Materials Using a Flexible Wall Permeameter
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2010
• Refers: ASTM D2216-10 - Standard Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2010
• Refers: ASTM D3740-10 - 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-Mar-2010
• Refers: ASTM D653-09 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2009

Overview

ASTM D6035/D6035M-19 establishes standard test methods for determining the effect of freeze-thaw cycles on the hydraulic conductivity of compacted or intact soil specimens using a flexible wall permeameter. This standard is essential for geotechnical, environmental, and civil engineering fields, where understanding the impact of freeze-thaw conditions on soil permeability plays a critical role in the design and maintenance of barriers such as liners and covers, especially in cold climates.

The standard outlines laboratory procedures for measuring changes in the hydraulic conductivity of soils after being subjected to repeated freeze-thaw cycles. It is specifically intended for use with soils that have an initial hydraulic conductivity less than or equal to 1E-5 m/s. It does not cover the testing of undisturbed in-situ soils that have already undergone freeze-thaw in the field.

Key Topics

• Hydraulic Conductivity: The test methods determine how freeze-thaw cycles affect the ability of soils to transmit water, which influences the long-term integrity of engineering structures.
• Flexible Wall Permeameter: Utilizes Test Method D5084 to provide accurate hydraulic conductivity measurements by minimizing sidewall leakage and external influences.
• Compacted and Intact Specimens: Applicable to both laboratory-compacted soils and intact soil samples obtained from the field.
• Freeze-Thaw Simulation: Specimens are subjected to 3D or 1D freeze-thaw cycles, mimicking real-world field conditions relevant for cold climate applications.
• Testing Systems: Procedures for both open systems (contact with external water source during freezing) and closed systems (isolated from external water during freezing).
• Water Content and Effective Stress: Importance of controlling initial water content and applying realistic effective stress during tests to replicate field conditions.
• Data Recording and Reporting: Emphasis on proper recording of specimen characteristics and test variables, following Practice D6026 for significant digits and rounding.

Applications

ASTM D6035/D6035M-19 is widely used in:

• Design and Assessment of Landfill Liners and Covers: Evaluating how freeze-thaw cycles impact the permeability of clay liners and soil covers ensures their effectiveness in containing waste and preventing leachate migration.
• Environmental Remediation Projects: Assessing the performance of soil barriers that may be exposed to seasonal freezing and thawing.
• Geotechnical Investigations: Providing insight into the durability and reliability of engineered soil systems in cold regions.
• Construction Quality Control: Verifying that compacted soils used in infrastructure projects will maintain their low hydraulic conductivity after exposure to freeze-thaw conditions.

Practical use of this standard helps engineers:

• Predict potential increases in hydraulic conductivity due to freeze-thaw, especially in low overburden pressure scenarios like landfill covers.
• Select appropriate water contents and compaction methods to optimize the long-term performance of soil barriers.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards for environmental protection and structural integrity.

Related Standards

Several ASTM standards are referenced in conjunction with ASTM D6035/D6035M-19 for comprehensive soil and hydraulic testing:

• ASTM D5084: Measurement of Hydraulic Conductivity of Saturated Porous Materials Using a Flexible Wall Permeameter.
• ASTM D653: Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids.
• ASTM D2216: Laboratory Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass.
• ASTM D1587/D1587M: Thin-Walled Tube Sampling of Fine-Grained Soils.
• ASTM D4220/D4220M: Preserving and Transporting Soil Samples.
• ASTM D3740: Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and Inspection of Soil and Rock.
• ASTM D6026: Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical Data.

These complementary standards ensure reliable, consistent sample preparation, data collection, and reporting practices for hydraulic conductivity testing under freeze-thaw conditions.

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Keywords: ASTM D6035/D6035M-19, hydraulic conductivity, freeze-thaw cycles, flexible wall permeameter, soil testing, landfill liner, environmental barriers, geotechnical testing, soil permeability, compacted soil, intact soil.

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: D6035/D6035M − 19
Standard Test Methods for
Determining the Effect of Freeze-Thaw on Hydraulic
Conductivity of Compacted or Intact Soil Specimens Using
a Flexible Wall Permeameter
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6035/D6035M; 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* 1.4 Soil specimens tested using this test method can be
tested in a closed system (that is, no access to an external
1.1 Thesetestmethodscoverlaboratorymeasurementofthe
supply of water during freezing) or an open system.
effect of freeze-thaw on the hydraulic conductivity of com-
1.5 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the
pacted or intact soil specimens using Test Method D5084 and
guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in
a flexible wall permeameter to determine hydraulic conductiv-
Practice D6026.
ity. These test methods do not provide steps to perform
1.5.1 Theproceduresusedtospecifyhowdataarecollected/
sampling of, or testing of, in situ soils that have already been
recorded and calculated in the standard are regarded as the
subjected to freeze-thaw conditions. Test Method A uses a
industry standard. In addition, they are representative of the
specimen for each hydraulic conductivity determination that is
significant digits that generally should be retained. The proce-
subjected to freeze/thaw while Test Method B uses one
dures used do not consider material variation, purpose for
specimenfortheentiretestmethod(thatis,thesamespecimen
obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any consider-
is used for each hydraulic conductivity).
ations for the user’s objectives; and it is common practice to
1.2 These test methods may be used with intact specimens
increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be
(block or thin-walled) or laboratory compacted specimens and
commensuratewiththeseconsiderations.Itisbeyondthescope
shall be used for soils that have an initial hydraulic conduc-
of the test methods ro consider significant digits used in
tivitylessthanorequalto1E-5m/s[3.94E-4in./s](1E-3cm/s)
analysis methods for engineering data.
(Note 1).
1.6 Units—The values stated in SI units or inch-pound units
NOTE 1—The maximum initial hydraulic conductivity is given as 1 E-5
(presented in brackets) are to be regarded separately as
m/s [3.94 E-4 in./s]. This should also apply to the final hydraulic
standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact
conductivity. It is expected that if the initial hydraulic conductivity is 1
equivalents;therefore,eachsystemshallbeusedindependently
E-5 m/s (3.94 E-4 in./s), then the final hydraulic conductivity will not
of the other. Combining values from the two systems may
change (increase) significantly (that is, greater than 1 E-5 m/s) (3.94 E-4
result in non-conformance with the standard. Reporting of test
in./s).
results in units other than SI shall not be regarded as noncon-
1.3 Soil specimens tested using this test method can be
formance with this test method.
subjected to three-dimensional freeze-thaw (herein referred to
1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the
as 3-d) or one-dimensional freeze-thaw (herein referred to as
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
1-d). (For a discussion of one-dimensional freezing versus
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
three-dimensional freezing, refer to Zimmie and LaPlante or
2,3
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
Othman, et al. )
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ThistestmethodisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeD18onSoiland
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.19 on Frozen Soils and
Rock.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2019. Published November 2019. Originally
approved in 1996. Last previous edition approved in 2013 as D6035–13. DOI:
10.1520/D6035_D6035M-19. Othman, M. A., Benson, C. H., Chamberlain, E. J., and Zimmie, T. F.,
Zimmie, T. F., and La Plante, C., “The Effect of Freeze/Thaw Cycles on the “Laboratory Testing to Evaluate Changes in Hydraulic Conductivity of Compacted
Permeability of a Fine-Grained Soil,” Hazardous and Industrial Wastes, Proceed- Clays Caused by Freeze-Thaw: State-of-the-Art,” Hydraulic Conductivity and
ings of the Twenty-Second Mid-Atlantic Industrial Waste Conference, Joseph P. Waste Contaminant Transport in Soils, ASTM STP 1142, David E. Daniel, and
Martin, Shi-Chieh Cheng, and MaryAnn Susavidge, eds., Drexel University, 1990, Stephen J. Trautwein, eds., American Society for Testing and Materials,
pp. 580–593. Conshohocken, PA, pp. 227–254.
*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
D6035/D6035M − 19
a result of freeze-thaw because the effects of freeze-thaw are minimized
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
by the lack of water in the sample.Therefore, the effect of freeze-thaw on
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
the hydraulic conductivity is minimal, or the hydraulic conductivity may
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
increase slightly.
4.3 The requestor must provide information regarding the
2. Referenced Documents
effective stresses to be applied during testing, especially for
2.1 ASTM Standards:
determining the final hydraulic conductivity. Using high effec-
D653Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
tive stresses (that is, 35 kPa [5 psi] as allowed by Test Method
Fluids
D5084) can decrease an already increased hydraulic conduc-
D1587/D1587MPractice forThin-WalledTube Sampling of
tivity resulting in lower final hydraulic conductivity values.
Fine-Grained Soils for Geotechnical Purposes
The long-term effect of freeze-thaw on the hydraulic conduc-
D2113Practice for Rock Core Drilling and Sampling of
tivity of compacted soils is unknown. The increased hydraulic
Rock for Site Exploration
conductivity caused by freeze-thaw may be temporary. For
D2216Test Methods for Laboratory Determination ofWater
example,theoverburdenpressureimpartedbythewasteplaced
(Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
on a soil liner in a landfill after being subjected to freeze-thaw
D3740Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies
may reduce the size of the cracks and pores that cause the
Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as
increase in hydraulic conductivity. It is not known if the
Used in Engineering Design and Construction
pressure would overcome the macroscopically increased hy-
D4220/D4220MPractices for Preserving and Transporting
draulic conductivity sufficiently to return the soil to its original
Soil Samples
hydraulicconductivity(priortofreeze-thaw).Forcasessuchas
D5084Test Methods for Measurement of Hydraulic Con-
landfill covers, where the overburden pressure is low, the
ductivity of Saturated Porous Materials Using a Flexible
increase in hydraulic conductivity due to freeze-thaw will
Wall Permeameter
likely be permanent. Thus, the requestor must take the appli-
D6026Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical
cation of the test method into account when establishing the
Data
effective stress.
3. Terminology
4.4 The specimen(s) shall be frozen to−15°C [5°F] unless
the requestor specifically dictates otherwise. It has been docu-
3.1 Definitions:
mented by Othman, et al that the initial (that is, 0 to−15°C
3.1.1 Fordefinitionsofcommontechnicaltermsusedinthis
[32°F to 5°F]) freezing condition causes the most significant
standard, see Terminology D653, including hydraulic conduc-
effects in hydraulic conductivity. Freezing rate and ultimate
tivity.
temperature should mimic the field conditions. It has been
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
shownthatsuperfreezing(thatis,freezingthespecimenatvery
3.2.1 freeze-thaw cycle, n—aloopfromroomtemperatureto
cold temperatures and very short time periods) produces
the ambient temperature of the freezing cabinet, and back to
erroneous results.
room temperature.
4.5 The thawed specimen temperature and thaw rate shall
3.2.2 freezing, closed system, n—freezing that occurs under
mimic field conditions.Thawing specimens in an oven (that is,
conditions that preclude the gain or loss of any water in the
overheating) will produce erroneous results.
system.
4.6 According to Othman, et al the effects of freeze-thaw
3.2.3 freezing, open system, n—freezing that occurs under
usually occur by Cycle 10, thus it is recommended that at least
conditions that allow the gain or loss of water in the system by
10freeze-thawcyclesshallbeperformedtoensurethatthefull
movement of pore water from or to an external source to
effects of freeze-thaw are measured. If the hydraulic conduc-
growing ice lenses.
tivityvaluesarestillincreasingafter10freeze-thawcycles,the
testmethodshallbecontinued(thatis,morefreeze-thawcycles
4. Significance and Use
shall be performed).
4.1 This test method identifies the changes in hydraulic
NOTE 3—The quality of the result produced by this standard is
conductivity as a result of freeze-thaw on natural soils only.
dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the
4.2 Itistheuser’sresponsibilitywhenusingthistestmethod
suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the
to determine the appropriate water content of the laboratory-
criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent
and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are
compacted specimens (that is, dry, wet, or at optimum water
cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in itself assure
content) (Note 2).
reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors; Practice D3740
NOTE 2—It is common practice to construct clay liners and covers at provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
optimum or greater than optimum water content. Specimens compacted
dry of optimum water content typically do not contain larger pore sizes as
5. Apparatus
5.1 Freezing Cabinet,capableofmaintainingatleast−15 6
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or 1°C [5 6 0.3°F].
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
5.2 The apparatus listed in Test Method D5084 (see 5.1
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. through 5.15).
D6035/D6035M − 19
freeze-thaw cycles that has a water content increased from the original
6. Reagents
compacted water content. This test method allows either procedure;
6.1 Deaired Water—To aid in removing as much air from
however cautions the user about the water content conditions. The results
the specimen as possible during the hydraulic conductivity
shouldnotbesignificantlydifferentiftheinitialwatercontentisalmostat
saturation, which is the case if soils are compacted well above optimum
portion of the test, deaired water shall be used.
water content. Using more than one specimen for the test metho
...

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: D6035/D6035M − 13 D6035/D6035M − 19
Standard Test MethodMethods for
Determining the Effect of Freeze-Thaw on Hydraulic
Conductivity of Compacted or Intact Soil Specimens Using
a Flexible Wall Permeameter
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6035/D6035M; 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 ThisThese test method coversmethods cover laboratory measurement of the effect of freeze-thaw on the hydraulic
conductivity of compacted or intact soil specimens using Test Method D5084 and a flexible wall permeameter to determine
hydraulic conductivity. ThisThese test method doesmethods do not provide steps to perform sampling of, or testing of, in situ soils
that have already been subjected to freeze-thaw conditions. Test Method A uses a specimen for each hydraulic conductivity
determination that is subjected to freeze/thaw while Test Method B uses one specimen for the entire test method (that is, the same
specimen is used for each hydraulic conductivity).
1.2 ThisThese test methodmethods may be used with intact specimens (block or thin-walled) or laboratory compacted
specimens and shall be used for soils that have an initial hydraulic conductivity less than or equal to 1E-5 m/s [3.94 E-4 in./s] (1E-3
cm/s) (Note 1).
NOTE 1—The maximum initial hydraulic conductivity is given as 1 E-5 m/s [3.94 E-4 in./s]. This should also apply to the final hydraulic conductivity.
It is expected that if the initial hydraulic conductivity is 1 E-5 m/s (3.94 E-4 in./s), then the final hydraulic conductivity will not change (increase)
significantly (that is, greater than 1 E-5 m/s) (3.94 E-4 in./s).
1.3 Soil specimens tested using this test method can be subjected to three-dimensional freeze-thaw (herein referred to as 3-d)
or one-dimensional freeze-thaw (herein referred to as 1-d). (For a discussion of one-dimensional freezing versus three-dimensional
2,3
freezing, refer to Zimmie and LaPlante or Othman.Othman, et al. )
1.4 Soil specimens tested using this test method can be tested in a closed system (that is, no access to an external supply of water
during freezing) or an open system.
1.5 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice
D6026.
1.5.1 The procedures used to specify how data are collected/recorded and calculated in the standard are regarded as the industry
standard. In addition, they are representative of the significant digits that generally should be retained. The procedures used do not
consider material variation, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any considerations for the user’s objectives;
and it is common practice to increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be commensurate with these considerations.
It is beyond the scope of the test methods ro consider significant digits used in analysis methods for engineering data.
1.6 Units—The values stated in SI units or inch-pound units (presented in brackets) are to be regarded separately as standard.
The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other.
Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard. Reporting of test results in units other
than SI shall not be regarded as conconformancenonconformance with this test method.
1.7 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.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.19 on Frozen Soils and Rock.
Current edition approved Aug. 15, 2013Nov. 1, 2019. Published September 2013November 2019. Originally approved in 1996. Last previous edition approved in 20082013
as D6035 – 08.D6035 – 13. DOI: 10.1520/D6035_D6035M-13.10.1520/D6035_D6035M-19.
Zimmie, T. F., and La Plante, C., “The Effect of Freeze/Thaw Cycles on the Permeability of a Fine-Grained Soil,” Hazardous and Industrial Wastes, Proceedings of the
Twenty-Second Mid-Atlantic Industrial Waste Conference, Joseph P. Martin, Shi-Chieh Cheng, and Mary Ann Susavidge, eds., Drexel University, 1990, pp. 580–593.
Othman, M. A., Benson, C. H., Chamberlain, E. J., and Zimmie, T. F., “Laboratory Testing to Evaluate Changes in Hydraulic Conductivity of Compacted Clays Caused
by Freeze-Thaw: State-of-the-Art,” Hydraulic Conductivity and Waste Contaminant Transport in Soils, ASTM STP 1142, David E. Daniel, and Stephen J. Trautwein, eds.,
American Society for Testing and Materials, Conshohocken, PA, pp. 227–254.
*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
D6035/D6035M − 19
1.8 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
D1587D1587/D1587M Practice for Thin-Walled Tube Sampling of Fine-Grained Soils for Geotechnical Purposes
D2113 Practice for Rock Core Drilling and Sampling of Rock for Site Exploration
D2216 Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as Used in
Engineering Design and Construction
D4220D4220/D4220M Practices for Preserving and Transporting Soil Samples
D5084 Test Methods for Measurement of Hydraulic Conductivity of Saturated Porous Materials Using a Flexible Wall
Permeameter
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical Data
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For common definitions of other terms in this standard, see Terminology D653, including hydraulic
conductivity.
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of common technical terms used in this standard, see Terminology D653, including hydraulic conductivity.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 freeze-thaw cycle, n—a loop from room temperature to the ambient temperature of the freezing cabinet, and back to room
temperature.
3.2.2 freezing, closed system, n—freezing that occurs under conditions that preclude the gain or loss of any water in the system.
3.2.3 freezing, open system, n—freezing that occurs under conditions that allow the gain or loss of water in the system by
movement of pore water from or to an external source to growing ice lenses.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This test method identifies the changes in hydraulic conductivity as a result of freeze-thaw on natural soils only.
4.2 It is the user’s responsibility when using this test method to determine the appropriate water content of the
laboratory-compacted specimens (that is, dry, wet, or at optimum water content) (Note 2).
NOTE 2—It is common practice to construct clay liners and covers at optimum or greater than optimum water content. Specimens compacted dry of
optimum water content typically do not contain larger pore sizes as a result of freeze-thaw because the effects of freeze-thaw are minimized by the lack
of water in the sample. Therefore, the effect of freeze-thaw on the hydraulic conductivity is minimal, or the hydraulic conductivity may increase slightly.
4.3 The requestor must provide information regarding the effective stresses to be applied during testing, especially for
determining the final hydraulic conductivity. Using high effective stresses (that is, 35 kPa [5 psi] as allowed by Test Method
D5084) can decrease an already increased hydraulic conductivity resulting in lower final hydraulic conductivity values. The
long-term effect of freeze-thaw on the hydraulic conductivity of compacted soils is unknown. The increased hydraulic conductivity
caused by freeze-thaw may be temporary. For example, the overburden pressure imparted by the waste placed on a soil liner in
a landfill after being subjected to freeze-thaw may reduce the size of the cracks and pores that cause the increase in hydraulic
conductivity. It is not known if the pressure would overcome the macroscopically increased hydraulic conductivity sufficiently to
return the soil to its original hydraulic conductivity (prior to freeze-thaw). For cases such as landfill covers, where the overburden
pressure is low, the increase in hydraulic conductivity due to freeze-thaw will likely be permanent. Thus, the requestor must take
the application of the test method into account when establishing the effective stress.
4.4 The specimenspecimen(s) shall be frozen to −15°C [5°F] unless the requestor specifically dictates otherwise. It has been
documented in the literature by Othman, et al that the initial (that is, 0 to −15°C [32°F to 5°F]) freezing condition causes the most
significant effects in hydraulic conductivity. Freezing rate and ultimate temperature should mimic the field conditions. It has been
shown that superfreezing (that is, freezing the specimen at very cold temperatures and very short time periods) produces erroneous
results.
4.5 The thawed specimen temperature and thaw rate shall mimic field conditions. Thawing specimens in an oven (that is,
overheating) will produce erroneous results.
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.
D6035/D6035M − 19
4.6 Literature relating to this subject indicatesAccording to Othman, et al that the effects of freeze-thaw usually occur by Cycle
10, thus it is recommended that at least 10 freeze-thaw cycles shall be performed to ensure that the full effects of freeze-thaw are
measured. If the hydraulic conductivity values are still increasing after 10 freeze-thaw cycles, the test method shall be continued
(that is, more freeze-thaw cycles shall be performed).
NOTE 3—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. Apparatus
5.1 Freezing Cabinet, capable of maintaining at least −15 6 1°C [5 6 0.3°F].
5.2 The apparatus listed in Test Method D5084 (see 5.1 through 5.18).5.15).
6. Reagents
6.1 Deaired Water—To aid in removing as much air from the specimen as possible during the hydraulic conductivity portion
of the test, deaired water shall be used.
6.2 Optional—Cell Water (Optional)—If the specimen is frozen/thawed in the flexiwall permeameter, a mixture of propylene
glycol and tap water can be placed in the flexi-wall permeameter cell. The compatibility of the mixture and membrane used shall
be determined. Membranes may degrade and cause cell leakage. This mixture should have a freezing point lower than the ambient
temperature of the freezing cabinet. The specimen will freeze, but the cell fluid will not. This allows the total stress on the specimen
t
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