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D6169 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
ASTM D6169/D6169M–21 provides a comprehensive framework for selecting appropriate subsurface soil and rock sampling devices for use in environmental and geotechnical site characterization. Developed under the ASTM consensus process, this standard guide serves as an organized reference of options designed to assist geologists, engineers, and environmental professionals in choosing the most effective tools for obtaining representative subsurface samples.
🔍 Scope and Key Applications of the Guide
This guide covers the selection of sampling devices used to characterize in situ physical and hydraulic properties, chemical characteristics, subsurface lithology, stratigraphy, and hydrogeologic units. It is intended for use alongside Guide D420 and Guide D5730. The standard is a guide rather than a rigid procedure, emphasizing that it “cannot replace education and experience” and must be applied with sound professional judgment (Section 1.7). Furthermore, the standard specifies that values stated in SI units and inch-pound units are to be regarded separately and must not be combined (Section 1.6).
| 🟦 Characterization Goal | 📐 Target Parameter | 🎯 Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| Physical & Hydraulic Properties | Density, Permeability, Void Ratio | Geotechnical Foundation Design |
| Chemical Characteristics | Contaminant Concentration, pH | Environmental Site Assessments |
| Lithology & Structure | Rock Quality Designation (RQD), Fractures | Slope Stability & Tunneling |
⚠️ Critical Compliance Rule: Per Section 1.6, SI and inch-pound units must be used independently. Do not combine values from both systems in a single project specification or report as this violates the standard and may result in non-conformance with the test method requirements.
⚙️ Sampling Devices and Drilling Method Integration
The standard establishes that soil and rock samplers are most frequently deployed in drilled or pushed boreholes. Guide D6286 provides context on the various drilling methods/technologies compatible with these devices. The key referenced sampling practices define the specific samplers, operating procedures, and resulting sample quality:
| 🟦 Referenced Standard | 📏 Sampling Device | ⚡ Sample Quality | 📐 Primary Data Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| D1586/D1586M | Standard Penetration Test (SPT) & Split-Barrel Sampler | Disturbed | Geotechnical strength & penetration resistance |
| D1587/D1587M | Thin-Walled Tube Sampler | Undisturbed | Lab consolidation, hydraulic conductivity, shear strength |
| D2113 | Rock Core Drilling & Sampling | Intact Core | Fracture analysis, rock mass strength, RQD |
| D3550/D3550M | Thick Wall, Ring-Lined, Split Barrel Drive Sampler | Moderate to Disturbed | Environmental soil sampling with liner retention |
💡 Technical Guidance: For environmental investigations where chemical integrity is critical, Practice D6640 and Guide D4547 provide specific protocols for sample handling. For preserving soil structure during transport, follow Practices D4220/D4220M; rock core samples should be handled per Practice D5079.
📋 Excluded Methods and Special Cases
ASTM D6169/D6169M–21 does not cover all sampling situations. It explicitly excludes the selection of hand-held soil sampling equipment (Guide D4700), solid-stem augering devices (Practice D1452/D1452M), and hand-carved block samples from excavations (D7015/D7015M). Furthermore, devices for collecting cores from submerged sediments (Guides D4823) and solid waste (Guide D6232) are outside the scope of this guide. Refer to the specific standards identified in the standard’s appendix for guidance on these specialized applications.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the primary purpose of ASTM D6169/D6169M-21?
The standard provides organized guidance for selecting subsurface soil and rock sampling devices. It helps characterize physical, hydraulic, chemical, and geologic properties for environmental and geotechnical projects, but it does not recommend a specific course of action.
💡 Can this guide be used for collecting samples from submerged sediments or solid waste?
No. The standard specifically excludes these materials. Practitioners should refer to ASTM Guide D4823 for submerged sediments and Guide D6232 for solid waste sampling.
⚡ Which specific ASTM standards define the most common rock and soil samplers?
The key sampling methods referenced include D1586/D1586M (Split-Barrel SPT), D1587/D1587M (Thin-Walled Tube), D2113 (Rock Core), and D3550/D3550M (Ring-Lined Split Barrel).
📌 Does this standard dictate a mandatory procedure for sample collection?
No. As stated in Section 1.7, this is a standard guide offering a collection of information and options. It “cannot replace education and experience” and must be used alongside professional judgment to determine the best approach for a specific site.