ASTM D4544-86(2008)

This practice allows the determination of the depth at which the resistance to penetration of a pushed or driven rod increases sharply. When the overlying material is peat and the underlying one is mineral soil or bedrock, the depth of change may be interpreted as the thickness of peat. Successive areal determinations of this depth, in combination with surface measurements of the lateral extent of peat will allow calculation of the volume of peat in the deposit.

1.1 This practice uses a technique of probing to estimate the thickness of surficial peat deposits overlying mineral soil or bedrock. These estimates may be needed for energy, horticultural, or geotechnical purposes.

1.2 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.3 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project's many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.