GC230028 Ref.1

METHOD STATEMENT FOR IN-PLACE
DENSITY AND WATER CONTENT OF SOIL AND

SOIL-AGGREGATE BY NUCLEAR METHODS
(SHALLOW DEPTH) ASTM D-6938-17a
ARAB CENTER FOR ENGINEERING STUDIES
ABU DHABI, U.A.E.
METHOD STATEMENT Ref. No. : MS-002
Issue No. : 1
Rev. No. : 0
DETERMINATION OF IN-PLACE DENSITY AND WATER Rev. date : 31/03/22
CONTENT OF SOIL AND SOIL-AGGREGATE BY Page : 1 of 12
NUCLEAR METHODS (SHALLOW DEPTH) Approved by : Eng. Mohammed
Almadani
METHOD STATEMENT
DETERMINATION OF IN-PLACE DENSITY AND WATER
CONTENT OF SOIL AND SOIL-AGGREGATE BY NUCLEAR
METHODS (SHALLOW DEPTH)
ABU DHABI, U.A.E.
Issue No. : 1
Rev. No. : 0
Almadani
TABLE OF CONTENT
Title Page
1.0 Scope ………………………………………………………. 4
2.0 Significance and Use …………………………………….… 4
3.0 Summary of test method……………………………………. 4
4.0 Apparatus ………………………………………………….. 5
5.0 Quality Assurance ………………………………….………. 7
6.0 Test Personnel …………………………………….………. 8
7.0 Test Procedure (Direct Transmission Procedure) ………… 8
8.0 Calculation of Results……..……………………………… 10
9.0 Safety…………….. ……………………………….……… 10
10.0 Test Report …………….. ………………………………… 11
11.0 Transportation ……………………………………………… 11
12.0 Storage ………………………………………………… 11
13.0 References ………………………………………………… 12

ABU DHABI, U.A.E.
Issue No. : 1
Rev. No. : 0
Almadani
1.0 SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the total or wet density and moisture content of soil
and soil-rock mixtures by the attenuation of gamma radiation where the source and detector(s) remain
on the surface (Backscatter Method) or the source or detector is placed at a known depth up to 300 mm
(12 in.) while the detector(s) or source remains on the surface (Direct Transmission Method).
1.2 The density in mass per unit volume of the material under test is determined by comparing the
detected rate of gamma radiation with previously established calibration data.
1.3 The water content in mass per unit volume of the material under test is determined by comparing the
detected rate of thermalized or slow neutrons with previously established calibration data.
1.4 This Method Statement is limited to Direct Transmission Procedure.
2.0 SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
2.1 The test method described is useful as rapid, nondestructive techniques for the in-place
determination of density and water content of soil and rock. It is used for compaction control testing of
roadways, embankments, trench backfills and other earthworks such as dams and foundations.
2.2 This test method is suitable for quality control and acceptance testing for construction and for
research and development applications.
2.3 The nondestructive nature of the tests allows repetitive measurements to be made at a single test
location.
3.0 SUMMARY OF TEST METHOD
3.1. General
Nuclear moisture and density gauges use two sealed sources of radioactive material to determine the
density and moisture content of earth works, asphalt pavement, concrete and roofing materials.
There are two methods of testing:
Direct Transmission Procedure
This is the common procedure used for testing of soil and rock. A test hole is prepared using a drill pin
or slide hammer. The source rod is extended to the depth required and a direct transmission test is taken.
ABU DHABI, U.A.E.
Issue No. : 1
Rev. No. : 0
Almadani
Backscatter Method
To measure density of asphalt pavements, the gauge is positioned on a smooth surface. The source rod
is placed in the backscatter (non-destructive) position and in-place density measurements of the
pavement are taken.
The obtained readings for standard counts along with moisture and density readings are compared with
standard calibration curves and values for in-situ bulk density and moisture content are calculated. For
compaction control, the operator uses laboratory-determined values such as Proctor and Marshall
Values to determine the degree of compaction. Some instrument has the facility for direct readout of all
results simultaneously.
The Nuclear Gauges use cesium or radium as the source of fast neutrons. The hydrogen atom has the
same mass as the high energy neutrons and the majority of hydrogen in soil is associated with the soil
water; therefore, when the fast neutrons collide with the hydrogen, the fast neutrons lose enough energy
to become slow neutrons, and the slow neutrons rebound back towards the probe and are absorbed by
the nucleus of the gas in the probe. Boron tri-fluoride or helium-3 gas can be used to absorb the
rebounding slow neutrons. When the slow neutrons enter the nucleus of the gas, a higher energy state
results, and emitted photons can then be detected as electrical pulses with an electronic counting device.
There are a proportional number of thermalized neutrons related to the soil water content.
3.2. Interferences
3.2.1 The chemical composition of the sample may affect the measurement, and adjustments may be
necessary. Hydrogen in forms other than water determined by ASTM D2216 and carbon will cause
measurements in excess of the true value.
3.2.2 Oversize rocks or large voids in the source detector path may cause higher or lower density
determination. Where lack of uniformity in the soil due to layering, rock or voids is suspected, the test
volume site should be dug up and visually examined to determine if the test material is representative of
the full material in general and if rock correction is required.
4.0 APPARATUS
4.1 NUCLEAR GAUGE
An electronic counting instrument, capable of being seated on the surface of the material under test, and
which contains:
 A sealed source of high energy gamma radiation such as cesium or radium.

 A sealed mixture of a radioactive material such as americium or radium and a target
material such as beryllium.
 Gamma Detector-Any type of gamma detector such as a Geiger-Mueller tube(s).
ABU DHABI, U.A.E.
Issue No. : 1
Rev. No. : 0
Almadani
Arab Center for Engineering Studies is equipped with nuclear gauge devices as follows:
1. MC-1 PORTAPROBE ,CPN (USA)

2. MC-3 PORTAPROBE ,CPN (USA)
4.2 REFERENCE STANDARD
A block of material used for checking instrument operation and to establish conditions for a
reproducible reference count rate.
4.3 SITE PREPARATION DEVICES
A plate, straightedge, or other suitable leveling tool which may be used for planning the test site to the
required smoothness, and in the Direct Transmission Method, guiding the drive pin to prepare a
perpendicular hole.
4.4 DRIVE PIN
A pin of slightly larger diameter than the rod in the Direct Transmission Instrument, wed to prepare a
hole in the material under test for inserting the rod.
Fig 1 presents the Nuclear Meters available with ACES -CPN.
Fig.1 Nuclear Density Gauges: CPN

ABU DHABI, U.A.E.
Issue No. : 1
Rev. No. : 0
Almadani
5. QUALITY ASSURANCE
Calibration charts are provided by the manufacturers, containing relationship between the count rate and
corresponding densities and moisture contents. However following measures of quality checks shall be
used in order to ensure reliability and accuracy of test results.
5.1 Standardization and Reference Check
5.1.1 Standardization of the gage shall be performed at the start of each day’s work, and a permanent
record of these data shall be retained. Perform the standardization with the gage located at least 8 m
away from other sources of radioactive material, and clear of large masses or other items which may
affect the reference count rate.
5.1.2 Using the reference standard, take a reading for the each standard moisture and density counts a
measurement period of four or more times the normal test period. This constitutes one standardization
check.
5.1.3 The values obtained above are compared with the average of past 4 values for each moisture and
density standard counts, taken prior to usage. If it is within the limits stated below the gage is considered
to be in satisfactory condition, and the values may be used to determine the moisture and density count
ratios for the day of use. The limits are as follows:
| Ns-No | ≤ 2*(No)0.5
Where:
Ns = value of current standardization count,
No = average of the past four values of N, taken for prior usage.
5.1.4 If the value is outside these limits, allow additional time for the gage to stabilize, make sure the
area is clear of sources of interference, and then conduct another standardization check. If the second
standardization check is within the limits, the gage may be used, but if it also fails the test, the gage
shall be adjusted or repaired as recommended by the manufacturer.
5.1.5 If the instrument standardization has not been checked within the previous three months, perform
at least four new standardization checks, and use the mean as the value for No.
5.1.6 Use the value of Ns to determine the count ratios for the current day’s use of the instrument. If for
any reason the measured density / moisture become suspect during the day’s use, perform another
standardization check.
ABU DHABI, U.A.E.
Issue No. : 1
Rev. No. : 0
Almadani
5.2 Moisture Correction.
Some soils have other forms of water known as “bound water’ or water of hydration which does not
contribute to the compactive efforts but is measured by nuclear gauge. A simple corrective technique
can be used by comparing of moisture contents obtained on the same samples/ location by using of
nuclear method and oven drying method (ASTM D2216-98) and obtain related linear correlation.
Moisture calibrations needs to be done with a newly purchased neutron probe and when changing to
another field. Field calibrations should be done in the locations of nuclear tests to produce a linear
model that fits the soil type for that location. The linear model of a known soil type (sandy, clay, etc.)
can be used in any field with a similar soil type.
5.3 Density Compaction Box Calibration
If the operator observes that the density values are unrealistic or are in disagreement with other testing
devices both nuclear and conventional, the Compaction Box procedure may be used for density
verification for peculiar type of soil which does not fit the gauge curve.
For that purpose a strong box 18.6*16.6*11 inches is filled with the representative material from the site
and compacted to the required density inch by inch. The exact value of compaction is determined by the
relation of the measured weight and volume.
Density reading over the same box are obtained by the nuclear gauge and compared with the calculated
values. The values should conform within ±16 kg/m3, otherwise overall calibration of the instrument should
be suspected.
6.0 TEST PERSONNEL
The field testing is performed by an experienced technician with at least 1 year experience in nuclear
density testing.
The interpretation of records is performed by experienced engineer with at least 3 years experience in
material testing.
7.0 TEST PROCEDURE (DIRECT TRANSMISSION PROCEDURE)
7.1 Standardize the gage. (See Section 5.1)
7.2 Select a test location. If the gage will be closer than 250 mm (10 in.) to any vertical mass that might
influence the result, such as in a trench or alongside a pipe, follow the manufacturer’s correction
procedure.
ABU DHABI, U.A.E.
Issue No. : 1
Rev. No. : 0
Almadani
7.3 Remove all loose and disturbed material. Remove additional material as necessary to reach the
material that represents a valid sample of the zone or stratum to be tested. Surface drying and spatial
bias should be considered in determining the depth of material to be removed.
7.4 Plane or scrape a smooth horizontal surface so as to obtain maximum contact between the gage and
the material being tested. The placement of the gage on the surface of the material to be tested is always
important, but is especially critical to the successful determination of density when using the backscatter
method. The optimum condition in all cases is total contact between the bottom surface of the gauge and
the surface of the material being tested. To correct for surface irregularities, use of native tines or fine
sand as a filler may be necessary. The depth of the filler should not exceed approximately 3 mm (1/8
in.) and the total area filled should not exceed 10 % of the bottom area of the instrument. The maximum
depth of any void beneath the gage that can be tolerated without filling shall not exceed approximately 3
mm (1/8 in.). Several trial seating may be required to achieve
These conditions.
7.5. Make a whole perpendicular to the prepared surface using the guide and the hole-forming device
4.4, or by drilling if necessary. The hole shall be of such depth and alignment that insertion of the probe
will not cause the gage to tilt from the plane of the prepared area. The depth of the hole must be deeper
than the depth to which the probe will be placed. The guide shall be the same size as the base of the
gauge, with the hole in the same location on the guide as the probe on the gauge. The corners of the
guide are marked by scoring the surface of the soil. The guide plate is then removed and any necessary
repairs are made to the prepared surface.
7.6 Set the gage on the soil surface, carefully aligning it with the marks on the soil so that the probe will
be directly over the pre-formed hole.
7.7 Insert the probe in the hole.
7.8 Seat the gage firmly by rotating it about the probe with a back and forth motion.
7.9 Secure and record the density and moisture readings for the normal measurement period.
7.10 Determine the ratio of the readings to the standard count. From this count ratio and the appropriate
calibration and adjustment data, determine the in-place wet density and moisture content.
7.11 If the volume tested as defined in 4.4 has excess oversize material with respect to the limitations in
the appropriate Test Methods D 698, D 1357 or D 4253, then a correction for wet density (unit weight)
and water content must be applied. This correction will be done in accordance with Practice D4718.
This test method requires sampling from the actual test volume.
ABU DHABI, U.A.E.
Issue No. : 1
Rev. No. : 0
Almadani
7.12 If samples of the measure material are to be taken for purposes of correlation with other test
methods or rock correction, the volume measured can be approximated by a 200 mm (8 in.) diameter
cylinder located directly under the center line of the radioactive source and detector(s). The height of the
cylinder to be excavated will be the depth setting of the source rod when using the Direct Transmission
method.
7.13 An alternative to the correction for oversize particles that can be used with mass density methods
or minimal oversize situations involves multiple tests. Tests may be taken at adjacent locations and the
results averaged to get a representative value. Comparisons need to be made to evaluate whether the
presence of a single large rock or void in the soil is producing unrepresentative values of density.
Whenever values obtained are questionable, the test volume site should be dug up and visually
examined.
8. CALCULATION OF RESULTS
8.1 The in-place wet density is determined as outlined in 8.10. If dry density is required, the in-place
water content shall be determined using either gravimetric samples and laboratory determination of
water content (Test Methods D 2216, D 4643, D 4959, D 4944), or an instrument which determines
water content by neutron thermalization (Test Method D 3017).
8.1.1 If the water content is determined by nuclear methods, Test Method D 3017, subtract the kg/m3
(lbf/ft3) of moisture from the kg/m3 (lbf/ft3) of wet density, and obtain dry density in kg/m3 (lbf/ft3)
8.1.2 If the water content is determined by other methods, and is in the form of percent, proceed as
follows:
ρd=100 ρm /(100+W)
where:
ρd = dry density in kg/m3 (lbf/ft3)
ρm= wet density in kg/m3 (lbf/ft3)
W = water as a percent of the dry mass.
9. SAFETY
When used in accordance with instructions the nuclear gauges represent no danger to the user or to the
public.
The general public is restricted from access to the device by virtue of the operating procedures, locked
storage and transportation limitations.
Operator protection is obtained through adequate training plus good gauge design
ABU DHABI, U.A.E.
Issue No. : 1
Rev. No. : 0
Almadani
No matter how low is the exposure rate, there are three ways to limit the exposure:
-TIME –exposure is lowered by only being with the instrument for the time of measurement;
-DISTANCE –radiation exposure decreases sharply with the distance. Work fast and keep distance
between gauge and operator;
-SHIELDING –no additional shielding methods are necessary for the particular gauges.
Effective user instructions together with routine safety procedures, such as source leak tests are a
recommended part of the operation and storage of this type of instruments.
10. TEST REPORT
Report the following information:
10.1. Standardization and adjustment data for the date of the tests.
10.2 Make, model and serial number of the test instrument.
10.3 Name of the operator(s).
10.4 Test site identification.
10.5 Visual description of material tested.
10.6 Test mode (backscatter or direct transmission) and test depth (if applicable).
10.7 Wet and dry densities in kg/m3 or unit weights in (lbf/ft3)
10.8 Water content in percent of dry mass or dry unit weight.

ABU DHABI, U.A.E.
Issue No. : 1
Rev. No. : 0
Almadani
11. Transportation
The transportation or shipment of regulated materials must comply with FANR regulations
(FANR-Reg- 13). All radioactive shipments and transport within or from ACES must receive
prior approval from the RSO.
The following regulations must be achieved:
a) Transportation of materials shall be performed only in a specialized and FANR / Civil

Defense Approved vehicle with all required labels, placard and radioactive markings.
b) During transportation, the container shall be fully secured in the transported vehicle, locked,
and located away from personnel, as appropriate. The vehicle shall be locked when
unattended.
c) If the driver and all passengers leave the vehicle unattended at any time during transport, the
case shall be securely locked inside of the vehicle to prevent theft.
d) The ignition keys should be removed and the driver's compartment locked.
e) Vehicles with regulated materials must not be parked overnight at residences.
f) During the transportation, the operator should have proper documents such as vehicle
approval from Civil Defense and all related licenses from FANR.
g) Regulated materials should not be left unsecured at any time.
12. Storage
Field Storage Requirements: The following requirements must be complied

with:
a) Notification to the parties responsible for the premises of the presence of ionizing
radiation and approval of storage by such parties.
b) The premises shall be inspected and the RSO shall be satisfied that the regulated materials
are properly stored.
c) Radiation signs shall be posted on the outer surface of vehicles, at each entryway of a
building, and at the locked doors of rooms, closets, or special areas to notify the public of
the presence of ionizing radiation. The signs shall display the names, local addresses, and
phone numbers of responsible ACES employees (site lab supervisor and RSO).
ABU DHABI, U.A.E.
Issue No. : 1
Rev. No. : 0
Almadani
d) The external surface of the storage area shall be capable of protecting persons from
exposure to radiation fields in excess of 0.15mrem/hr (see Table 1).
13. References
CPN Manufacturer’s Manuals
ASTM D6938-17a –Standard Test Method for In-Place Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil-
Aggregate by Nuclear Methods (Shallow Depth)
STANDARD TEST METHOD FOR IN-PLACE
DENSITY AND WATER CONTENT OF SOIL AND
SOIL-AGGREGATE BY NUCLEAR METHODS
(SHALLOW DEPTH) ASTM D-6938-17a
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: D6938 − 17a
Standard Test Methods for

In-Place Density and Water Content of Soil and Soil-
Aggregate by Nuclear Methods (Shallow Depth)1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D6938; 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* ratio of the mass of the water in pore spaces to the total mass
of solids, expressed as a percentage.
1.1 This test method describes the procedures for measuring
in-place density and moisture of soil and soil-aggregate by use 1.4 Two alternative procedures are provided.
of nuclear equipment (hereafter referred to as “gauge”). The 1.4.1 Procedure A describes the direct transmission method
density of the material may be measured by direct in which the probe extends through the base of the gauge into
transmission, backscatter, or backscatter/air-gap ratio methods. a pre-formed hole to a desired depth. The direct transmission is
Measurements for water (moisture) content are taken at the the preferred method.
surface in backscatter mode regardless of the mode being used 1.4.2 Procedure B involves the use of a dedicated backscat-
for density. ter gauge or the probe in the backscatter position. This places
1.1.1 For limitations see Section 5 on Interferences. the gamma and neutron sources and the detectors in the same
1.2 The total or wet density of soil and soil-aggregate is plane.
measured by the attenuation of gamma radiation where, in 1.4.3 Mark the test area to allow the placement of the gauge
direct transmission, the source is placed at a known depth up to over the test site and to align the probe to the hole.
300 mm (12 in.) and the detector(s) remains on the surface 1.5 SI Units—The values stated in SI units are to be
(some gauges may reverse this orientation); or in backscatter or regarded as the standard. The values in inch-pound units (ft –
backscatter/air-gap the source and detector(s) both remain on lb units) are provided for information only.
the surface.
1.6 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the
1.2.1 The density of the test sample in mass per unit volume guide for significant digits and rounding established in Practice
is calculated by comparing the detected rate of gamma radia- D6026.
tion with previously established calibration data.
1.6.1 The procedures used to specify how data are collected,
1.2.2 The dry density of the test sample is obtained by recorded, and calculated in this standard are regarded as the
subtracting the water mass per unit volume from the test industry standard. In addition, they are representative of the
sample wet density (Section 11). Most gauges display this significant digits that should generally be retained. The proce-
value directly. dures used do not consider material variation, purpose for
1.3 The gauge is calibrated to read the water mass per unit obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any consider-
volume of soil or soil-aggregate. When divided by the density ations for the user’s objectives; and it is common practice to
of water and then multiplied by 100, the water mass per unit increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be
volume is equivalent to the volumetric water content. The commensurate with these considerations. It is beyond the scope
water mass per unit volume is determined by the thermalizing of this standard to consider significant digits used in analysis
or slowing of fast neutrons by hydrogen, a component of water. methods for engineering design.
The neutron source and the thermal neutron detector are both 1.7 This standard does not purport to address all of the
located at the surface of the material being tested. The water safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
content most prevalent in engineering and construction activi- responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
ties is known as the gravimetric water content, w, and is the priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.8 This international standard was developed in accor-
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.08 on Special and ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Construction Control Tests.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2017. Published December 2017. Originally
approved in 2006. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as D6938–17. DOI: mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
10.1520/D6938-17A. Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
*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
Copyright by ASTM Int'l (all rights reserved); Tue Dec 4 00:18:53 EST 2018
1
Downloaded/printed by
Florindo Sampang (Arab Center for Engineering Studies ACES) pursuant to License Agreement. No further reproductions authorized.
D6938 − 17a
2. Referenced Documents 3.2.2 gamma (radiation) source—a sealed source of radio-
2.1 ASTM Standards: 2 active material that emits gamma radiation as it decays.
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained 3.2.3 neutron (radiation) source—a sealed source of radio-
Fluids active material that emits neutron radiation as it decays.
D698 Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Character- 3.2.4 Compton scattering—the interaction between a
istics of Soil Using Standard Effort (12,400 ft-lbf/ft3 (600 gamma ray (photon) and an orbital electron where the gamma
kN-m/m3)) ray loses energy and rebounds in a different direction.
D1556 Test Method for Density and Unit Weight of Soil in 3.2.5 detector—a device to detect and measure radiation.
Place by Sand-Cone Method
D1557 Test Methods for Laboratory Compaction Character- 3.2.6 gravimetric water content—same as water content (as
istics of Soil Using Modified Effort (56,000 ft-lbf/ft3 defined in Terminology D653), a nomenclature used in some
(2,700 kN-m/m3)) scientific fields to differentiate it from volumetric water con-
D2167 Test Method for Density and Unit Weight of Soil in tent.
Place by the Rubber Balloon Method 3.2.7 thermalization—the process of “slowing down” fast
D2487 Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering neutrons by collisions with light-weight atoms, such as hydro-
Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System) gen.
D2488 Practice for Description and Identification of Soils 3.2.8 volumetric water content—the volume of water as a
(Visual-Manual Procedures) percent of the total volume of soil or rock material.
D2216 Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Water
3.2.9 test count, n—the measured output of a detector for a
(Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass
specific type of radiation for a given test.
D2937 Test Method for Density of Soil in Place by the
Drive-Cylinder Method 3.2.10 prepared blocks—blocks prepared of soil, solid rock,
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies concrete, and engineered materials, that have characteristics of
Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as various degrees of reproducible uniformity.
Used in Engineering Design and Construction
D4253 Test Methods for Maximum Index Density and Unit 4. Significance and Use
Weight of Soils Using a Vibratory Table 4.1 The test method described is useful as a rapid, nonde-
D4254 Test Methods for Minimum Index Density and Unit structive technique for in-place measurements of wet density
Weight of Soils and Calculation of Relative Density and water content of soil and soil-aggregate and the determi-
D4643 Test Method for Determination of Water Content of nation of dry density.
Soil and Rock by Microwave Oven Heating 4.2 The test method is used for quality control and accep-
D4718 Practice for Correction of Unit Weight and Water tance testing of compacted soil and soil-aggregate mixtures as
Content for Soils Containing Oversize Particles used in construction and also for research and development.
D4944 Test Method for Field Determination of Water (Mois- The nondestructive nature allows repetitive measurements at a
ture) Content of Soil by the Calcium Carbide Gas Pressure single test location and statistical analysis of the results.
Tester
D4959 Test Method for Determination of Water Content of 4.3 Density—The fundamental assumptions inherent in the
Soil By Direct Heating methods are that Compton scattering is the dominant interac-
D6026 Practice for Using Significant Digits in Geotechnical tion and that the material is homogeneous.
Data 4.4 Water Content—The fundamental assumptions inherent
D7013 Guide for Nuclear Surface Moisture and Density in the test method are that the hydrogen ions present in the soil
Gauge Calibration Facility Setup or soil-aggregate are in the form of water as defined by the
D7759 Guide for Nuclear Surface Moisture and Density water content derived from Test Methods D2216, and that the
Gauge Calibration material is homogeneous. (See 5.2)
NOTE 1—The quality of the result produced by this standard test method
3. Terminology is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the
3.1 Definitions—See Terminology D653 for general defini- suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the
criteria of Practice D3740 are generally considered capable of competent
tions. and objective testing/sampling/inspection, and the like. Users of this
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D3740 does not in
3.2.1 nuclear gauge—a device containing one or more itself ensure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors;
Practice D3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.
radioactive sources used to measure certain properties of soil
and soil-aggregates. 5. Interferences
5.1 In-Place Density Interferences
2
5.1.1 Measurements may be affected by the chemical com-
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
position of the material being tested.
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on 5.1.2 Measurements may be affected by non-homogeneous
the ASTM website. soils and surface texture (see 10.2). Excessive voids in the
2
D6938 − 17a
prepared test surface beneath the gauge can cause density 6.1.1 Gamma Source—A sealed source of high-energy
measurements that are lower than the actual soil density. gamma radiation such as cesium or radium.
Excessive use of fill material to compensate for these voids 6.1.2 Gamma Detector—Any type of gamma detector such
may likewise cause biased density measurements, or biased as a Geiger-Mueller tube(s).
water content measurements, or both. 6.1.3 Fast Neutron Source—A sealed mixture of a radioac-
5.1.3 Measurements in the Backscatter Mode are influenced tive material such as americium, radium and a target material
more by the density and water content of the material in such as beryllium, or a neutron emitter such as californium-
proximity to the surface. 252.
5.1.4 Measurements in the Direct Transmission mode are an 6.1.4 Slow Neutron Detector—Any type of slow neutron
average of the density from the bottom of the probe in the soil detector such as boron trifluoride or helium-3 proportional
or soil aggregate back up to the surface of the gauge. counter.
5.1.5 Gravel particles or large voids in the source-detector 6.2 Reference Standard—A block of material used for
path may cause higher or lower density measurments. Where checking instrument operation, correction of source decay, and
lack of uniformity in the soil due to layering, aggregate or to establish conditions for a reproducible reference count rate.
voids is suspected, the test site should be excavated and
visually examined to determine whether the test material is 6.3 Site Preparation Device—A plate, straightedge, or other
representative of the in situ material in general and whether an suitable leveling tool that may be used for planing the test site
oversize correction is required in accordance with Practice to the required smoothness, and in the Direct Transmission
D4718. Method, guiding the drive pin to prepare a perpendicular hole.
5.1.6 Oversize particles or large voids in the source-detector 6.4 Drive Pin—A pin of slightly larger diameter than the
path may cause higher or lower density measurements. Where probe in the Direct Transmission Instrument used to prepare a
lack of uniformity in the soil due to layering, aggregate or hole in the test site for inserting the probe.
voids is suspected, the test site should be excavated and 6.4.1 Drive Pin Guide—A fixture that keeps the drive pin
visually examined to determine if the test material is represen- perpendicular to the test site. Generally part of the site
tative of the in situ material in general and if an oversize preparation device.
correction is required in accordance with Practice D4718. 6.5 Hammer—Heavy enough to drive the pin to the required
5.1.7 The measured volume is approximately 0.0028 m3 depth without undue distortion of the hole.
(0.10 ft3) for the Backscatter Mode and 0.0057 m3 (0.20 ft3) for
the Direct Transmission Mode when the test depth is 150 mm 6.6 Drive Pin Extractor—A tool that may be used to remove
(6 in.). The actual measured volume is indeterminate and varies the drive pin in a vertical direction so that the pin will not
with the apparatus and the density of the material. distort the hole in the extraction process.
5.1.8 Other radioactive sources must not be within 9 m (30 6.7 Slide Hammer, with a drive pin attached, may also be
ft) of equipment in operation. used both to prepare a hole in the material to be tested and to
5.2 In-Place Water (Moisture) Content Interferences extract the pin without distortion to the hole.
5.2.1 The chemical composition of the material being tested 6.8 Probe, a slender, elongated device, part of the gauge,
can affect the measurement and adjustments may be necessary that is inserted into the soil under measurement by the gauge.
(see Section 10.6). Hydrogen in forms other than water and This device may contain either a radioactive source, a radiation
carbon will cause measurements in excess of the true value. detection device, or both. Probes containing only a radioactive
Some chemical elements such as boron, chlorine, and cadmium source are commonly referred to as “source rods.”
will cause measurements lower than the true value.
5.2.2 The water content measured by this test method is not 7. Hazards
necessarily the average water content within the volume of the 7.1 These gauges utilize radioactive materials that may be
sample involved in the measurement. Since this measurement hazardous to the health of the users unless proper precautions
is by backscatter in all cases, the value is biased by the water are taken. Users of these gauges must become familiar with
content of the material closest to the surface. The volume of applicable safety procedures and government regulations.
soil and soil-aggregate represented in the measurement is
indeterminate and will vary with the water content of the 7.2 Effective user instructions, together with routine safety
material. In general, the greater the water content of the procedures and knowledge of and compliance with Regulatory
material, the smaller the volume involved in the measurement. Requirements, are a mandatory part of the operation and
Approximately 50 % of the typical measurement results from storage of these gauges.
the water content of the upper 50 to 75 mm (2 to 3 in.).
5.2.3 Other neutron sources must not be within 9 m (30 ft) 8. Calibration
of equipment in operation. 8.1 Gauge calibration shall be performed in accordance with
Guides D7013 and D7759.
6. Apparatus
6.1 Nuclear Density / Moisture Gauge—While exact details 9. Standardization
of construction of the apparatus may vary, the system shall 9.1 Nuclear moisture density gauges are subject to long-
consist of: term aging of the radioactive sources, which may change the
3
D6938 − 17a
relationship between count rates and the material density and 10.3 Turn on and allow the gauge to stabilize (warm up)
water content. To correct for this aging effect, gauges are according to the manufacturer’s recommendations (see Section
calibrated as a ratio of the measurement count rate to a count 9.2.1).
rate made on a reference standard or to an air-gap count (for the 10.4 Procedure A - The Direct Transmission Procedure:
backscatter/air-gap ratio method). 10.4.1 Select a test location where the gauge in test position
9.2 Standardization of the gauge shall be performed at the will be at least 150 mm (6 in.) away from any vertical
start of each day’s use, and a record of these data should be projection.
retained for the amount of time required to ensure compliance 10.4.2 Make a hole perpendicular to the prepared surface
with either subsection 9.2.3 or Annex A3, whichever is using either (a) the drive pin guide, the guide pin extractor, a
applicable. Perform the standardization with the gauge located hammer, and drive pin, or (b) a slide hammer. The hole should
at least 9 m (30 ft) away from other nuclear moisture density be a minimum of 50 mm (2 in.) deeper than the desired
gauges and clear of large masses of water or other items which measurement depth and of an alignment that insertion of the
can affect the reference count rates. probe will not cause the gauge to tilt from the plane of the
9.2.1 Turn on the gauge and allow for stabilization accord- prepared area.
ing to the manufacturer’s recommendations. 10.4.3 Mark the test area to allow the placement of the
9.2.2 Using the reference standard, take a reading that is at gauge over the test site and to align the probe to the hole.
least four times the duration of a normal measurement period Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations if applicable.
(where a normal measurement period is typically one minute) 10.4.4 Remove the hole-forming device carefully to prevent
to constitute one standardization check. the distortion of the hole, damage to the surface, or loose
9.2.3 When available, use the procedure recommended by material to fall into the hole.
the gauge manufacturer to establish the compliance of the NOTE 2—Care must be taken in the preparation of the access hole in
standard measurement to the accepted range. Without specific uniform cohesionless granular soils. Measurements can be affected by
recommendations from the gauge manufacturer, use the pro- damage to the density of surrounding materials when forming the hole.
cedure described in Annex A3. 10.4.5 Place the gauge on the material to be tested, ensuring
9.2.4 If for any reason the measured density or moisture maximum surface contact as described previously in 10.2.4.
becomes suspect during the day’s use, perform another stan- 10.4.6 Lower the probe into the hole to the desired test
dardization check. depth. Pull the gauge gently toward the back, or detector end,
so that the back side of the probe is in intimate contact with the
10. Procedure side of the hole in the gamma measurement path.
10.1 When possible, select a test location where the gauge NOTE 3—As a safety measure, it is recommended that a probe
will be placed at least 600 mm (24.0 in) away from any object containing radioactive sources not be extended out of its shielded position
sitting on or projecting above the surface of the test location, prior to placing it into the test site. When possible, align the gauge so as
when the presence of this object has the potential to modify to allow placing the probe directly into the test hole from the shielded
gauge response. Any time a measurement must be made at a position.
specific location and the aforementioned clearance cannot be 10.4.7 Keep all other radioactive sources at least 9 m (30
achieved, such as in a trench, follow the gauge manufacturer’s feet) away from the gauge to avoid any effect on the measure-
correction procedure(s). ment.
10.2 Prepare the test site in the following manner: 10.4.8 If the gauge is so equipped, set the depth selector to
the same depth as the probe.
10.2.1 Remove all loose and disturbed material and addi-
tional material as necessary to expose the true surface of the 10.4.9 Secure and record one or more one-minute density
material to be tested. and water content readings. Read the in-place wet density
directly or determine one by use of the calibration curve or
10.2.2 Prepare an area sufficient in size to accommodate the
table previously established.
gauge by grading or scraping the area to a smooth condition so
as to obtain maximum contact between the gauge and material 10.4.10 Read the water content directly or determine the
being tested. water content by use of the calibration curve or table previ-
ously established.
10.2.3 The depth of the maximum void beneath the gauge
shall not exceed 3 mm (1⁄8 in.). Use either native material that 10.5 Procedure B -The Backscatter or Backscatter/Air-Gap
does not contain gravel or fine sand to fill the voids, and then Ratio Procedure:
smooth the surface with the site preparation device or other 10.5.1 Seat the gauge firmly (see Note 2).
suitable tool. The depth of the filler should not exceed 10.5.2 Keep all other radioactive sources at least 9 m (30 ft)
approximately 3 mm (1⁄8 in.). away from the gauge to avoid affecting the measurement.
10.2.4 The placement of the gauge on the surface of the 10.5.3 Set the gauge into the Backscatter (BS) position.
material to be tested is critical to accurate density measure- 10.5.4 Secure and record one or more set(s) of one-minute
ments. The optimum condition is total contact between the density and water content readings. When using the
bottom surface of the gauge and the surface of the material backscatter/air-gap ratio mode, follow the manufacturer’s in-
being tested. The total area filled should not exceed approxi- structions regarding gauge setup. Take the same number of
mately 10 percent of the bottom area of the gauge. readings for the normal measurement period in the air-gap
4
D6938 − 17a
position as in the standard backscatter position. Calculate the M m 3 100
w5 (1)
air-gap ratio by dividing the counts per minute obtained in the ρd
air-gap position by the counts per minute obtained in the
or,
standard position. Many gauges have built-in provisions for
automatically calculating the air-gap ratio and wet density. M m 3 100
w5 (2)
10.5.5 Read the in-place wet density or determine one by ρ 2 Mm
use of the calibration curve or table previously established. where:
10.5.6 Read the water content or determine one by use of
w = water content
the calibration curve or previously established table (see ρd = dry density in kg/m3 or (lbm/ft3),
Section 10.6). ρ = wet density in kg/m3 or (lbm/ft3), and
NOTE 4—Gauge measurements acquired using either Procedure A or Mm = water mass per unit volume in kg/m3 or (lbm/ft3)
Procedure B yield both density and water content values for the material
11.2.3 If the water content reading was in “counts,” deter-
under test. It is good practice to record gauge density and water counts
corresponding to the density and water values at the time of measurement mine the water mass per unit volume by use of this reading and
in the event that data recording errors or improper probe depth errors are previously established calibration curve or table. Then convert
of concern. to gravimetric water content in accordance with 11.2.2.
10.6 Water Content Correction and Oversize Particle Cor- 11.2.4 Record water content to the nearest 0.1 %.
rection 11.3 Determine the Dry Density of the soil by one of the
10.6.1 For proper use of the gauge and accurate values of following methods:
both water content and dry density, both of these corrections 11.3.1 If the water content is obtained by nuclear methods,
need to be made when applicable. use the gauge readings directly for dry density in kg/m3
Prior to using the gauge-derived water content on any new (lbm/ft3). The value can also be calculated from:
material, the value should be verified by comparison to another
ρd 5 ρ 2 Mm (3)
ASTM method such as Test Methods D2216, D4643, D4944,
or D4959. As part of a user developed procedure, occasional 11.3.2 If the water content is to be determined from a
samples should be taken from beneath the gauge and compari- sample of soil taken as prescribed in (10.6.3), follow the
son testing done to confirm gauge-derived water content procedures and perform the calculations of the chosen Test
values. All gauge manufacturers have a procedure for correct- Method (D2216, D4643, D4944, or D4959).
ing the gauge-derived water content values. 11.3.3 With a water content value from 11.3.2 calculate the
10.6.2 When oversize particles are present, the gauge can be dry density from:
rotated about the axis of the probe to obtain additional readings 100 3 ρ
as a check. When there is any uncertainty as to the presence of ρd 5
1001w
(4)
these particles it is advisable to sample the material beneath the
gauge to verify the presence and the relative proportion of the 11.3.4 Report the dry density to the nearest 1 kg/m3 (0.1
oversize particles. A rock correction can then be made for both lbm/ft3).
water content and wet density by the method in Practice 11.4 Determine the Percent Compaction:
D4718. 11.4.1 It may be desired to express the in-place dry density
10.6.3 When sampling for water content correction or as a percentage of a laboratory density such as Test Methods
oversize particle correction, the sample should be taken from a D698, D1557, D4253, or D4254. This relationship can be
zone directly under the gauge. The size of the zone is calculated by dividing the in-place dry density by the labora-
approximately 200 mm (8 in.) in diameter and a depth equal to tory maximum dry density and multiplying by 100. Procedures
the depth setting of the probe when using the direct transmis- for calculating relative density are provided in Test Method
sion mode; or approximately 75 mm (3 in.) in depth when D4254, which requires that Test Method D4253 also be
using the backscatter mode. performed. Corrections for oversize material, if required,
should be performed in accordance with Practice D4718.
11. Calculation of Results
11.1 Determine the Wet Density: 12. Report: Test Data Sheet(s)/Form(s)/Final Report(s)
11.1.1 On most gauges read the value directly in kg/m3 12.1 The Field Data Records shall include, as a minimum,
(lbm/ft3). If the density reading is in “counts”, determine the the following:
in-place wet density by use of this reading and the previously 12.1.1 Test Number or Test Identification.
established calibration curve or table for density. 12.1.2 Location of test (for example, Station number or GPS
11.1.2 Record the density to the nearest 1 kg/m3 (0.1 or Coordinates or other identifiable information).
lbm/ft3). 12.1.3 Visual description of material tested.
11.2 Water Content: 12.1.4 Lift number or elevation or depth.
11.2.1 Use the gauge reading for w if the gauge converts to 12.1.5 Name of the operator(s).
that value. 12.1.6 Make, model and serial number of the test gauge.
11.2.2 If the gauge determines water mass per unit volume 12.1.7 Test mode, Method A (direct transmission and test
in kg/m3 (lbm / ft3), calculate w using the formula: depth), or Method B (backscatter, backscatter/air-gap),
5
D6938 − 17a
12.1.8 Standardization and adjustment data for the date of an interlaboratory study in which five test sites containing
the tests. soils, with wet densities as shown in column two were tested
12.1.9 Any corrections made in the reported values and by eight different nuclear gauges and operators. The wet
reasons for these corrections (that is, over-sized particles, water density of each test site was measured three times by each
content). device.
12.1.10 Maximum laboratory density value in kg/m3 or 13.1.2 Precision: Water Mass Per Unit Volume—Criteria for
lbm/ft3.
judging the acceptability of the water mass per unit volume
12.1.11 Dry density in kg/m3 or lbm/ft3.
results obtained by this test method are given in Table 2. The
12.1.12 Wet density in kg/m3 or lbm/ft3.
12.1.13 Water content in percent. values given are based upon an inter-laboratory study in which
12.1.14 Percent Compaction. five test sites containing soils with water mass per unit volume
as shown in column two were tested by eight different nuclear
12.2 Final Report (minimum required information): gauges and operators. The water mass per unit volume of each
12.2.1 Test Number.
test site was measured three times by each device.
12.2.2 Gauge Serial number.
12.2.3 Location of test (for example, Station number or GPS 13.1.3 Precision: Water Content—Criteria for judging the
or Coordinates or other identifiable information). acceptability of the water content results obtained by this test
12.2.4 Lift number or elevation or depth. method are given in Table 3. The values given are based upon
12.2.5 Moisture (Water) content as a percent. an inter-laboratory study in which five test sites containing
12.2.6 Maximum laboratory density value in kg/m3 or soils, with water content as shown in column two were tested
lbm/ft3. by eight different nuclear gauges and operators. The water
12.2.7 Dry Density result in kg/m3 or lbm/ft3. content of each test site was measured three times by each
12.2.8 Percent Compaction. device.
12.2.9 Name of Operator(s).
13.2 Bias:
13. Precision and Bias 13.2.1 There are no accepted reference values for these test
13.1 Precision: methods, therefore, bias cannot be determined.
13.1.1 Precision: Wet Density—Criteria for judging the
acceptability of wet density test results obtained by this test 14. Keywords
method are given in Table 1.3 The values given are based upon 14.1 acceptance testing; compaction test; construction con-
trol; dry density; field density; in-place density; nuclear
3
methods, nuclear gauge; quality control; water content; wet
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may
be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D18-1004.
density
TABLE 1 Results of Statistical Analysis (Wet Density)A

Direct Transmission:
MaterialB Average Repeatability Reproducibility 95 % Repeatability 95 % Reproducibility
kg/m3 or (lbm/ft 3) Standard Deviation Standard Deviation Limit on the Difference Limit on the Difference
kg/m 3 or (lbm/ft3) kg/m 3 or (lbm/ft3) Between Two Between Two
Test Results Test Results
kg/m3 or (lbm/ft3)C kg/m3 or (lbm/ft3)C
ML 2084 (130.1) 7.4 (0.46) 12.3 (0.77) 21 (1.3) 34 (2.1)
CL 1837 (114.7) 5.4 (0.34) 10.6 (0.66) 15 (0.9) 30 (1.9)
SP 1937 (120.9) 4.2 (0.26) 11.0 (0.68) 12 (0.7) 31 (1.9)
Backscatter:
kg/m3 or (lbm/ft 3) Standard Deviation Standard Deviation Limit on the Difference Limit on the Difference
kg/m 3 or (lbm/ft3) kg/m 3 or (lbm/ft3) Between Two Between Two
ML 1997 (124.6) 16.0 (1.00) 32.0 (2.00) 45 (2.8) 90 (5.6)
A
The data used to establish this precision statement are contained in a Research Report available from ASTM Headquarters.3
B
Materials are distinguished by soil types. For definitions of soil types see Practices D2487 and D2488.
C
Two separate readings at a singular site with constant gauge orientation and settings.
6
D6938 − 17a
TABLE 2 Results of Statistical Analysis (Water Mass Per Unit Volume)A
kg/m3 or (lbm/ft3) Standard Deviation Standard Deviation Limit on the Difference Limit on the Difference
kg/m3 or (lbm/ft3) kg/m3 or (lbm/ft3) Between Two Between Two
ML 313 (19.6) 5.7 (0.36) 8.1 (0.50) 16 (1.0) 23 (1.4)
CL 193 (12.1) 6.1 (0.38) 8.5 (0.53) 17 (1.1) 24 (1.5)
SP 320 (20.0) 4.3 (0.27) 10.3 (0.64) 12 (0.7) 29 (1.8)
A
B
C
TABLE 3 Results of Statistical Analysis (% Water Content)A

% Standard Deviation Standard Deviation Limit on the Difference Limit on the Difference
% % Between Two Between Two
%C %C
ML 17.7 0.39 0.59 1.1 1.7
CL 11.8 0.40 0.58 1.1 1.6
SP 19.8 0.32 0.81 0.9 2.3
A
B
C
ANNEXES
(Mandatory Information)
A1. GAUGE PRECISION
A1.1 Gauge precision is defined as the change in density or calibration curve, S, and the standard deviation, σ, of the
water mass per unit volume that occurs corresponding to a one signals (detected gamma rays or detected neutrons) in counts
standard deviation change in the count due to the random decay per minute (cpm), as follows:
of the radioactive source. The density of the material and time P 5 σ/S (A1.1)
period of the count must be stated.
Calculate using the methods in either A1.1.1 or A1.1.2. For where:
wet density , use a material having a density of 2000 6 80 P = precision
kg/m3 (125.0 6 5.0 lbm/ft3). Typical values of P are < 10 σ = standard deviation, cpm
kg/m3 (0.6 lbm/ft3) in backscatter or backscatter/air-gap; and < S = slope, cpm/kg/m3 or cpm/lbm/ft3
5 kg/m3 (0.3 lbm/ft3) for direct transmission measured at a 15 NOTE A1.1—Displayed gauge counts may be scaled. Contact the
cm (6 in) depth. Use a water mass per unit volume value of 160 manufacturer to obtain the appropriate pre-scale factor.
6 10 kg/m3 (10.0 6 0.6 lbm/ft3) for determining slope and A1.1.2 Gauge Precision – Repetitive Method Determine the
count rates. The value of P is typically less than 4.8 kg/m3 (0.3 standard deviation of a minimum of 20 repetitive readings of
lbm/ft3). one minute each, without moving the gauge between readings.
A1.1.1 Gauge Precision - Slope Method Determine the Calculate the standard deviation of the resulting readings. This
gauge precision of the system, P, from the slope of the is the gauge precision.
7
D6938 − 17a
A2. FIELD MOISTURE CONTENT ADJUSTMENTS
A2.1 The calibration should be checked prior to performing mean value of the replicate readings as the calibration point
tests on materials that are distinctly different from material value for each test site.
types previously used in obtaining or adjusting the calibration.
Sample materials may be selected by either of the following A2.2 The amount of water shall be within 62 % of the
two methods: water content established as optimum for compaction for these
materials. Determine the water content w. A microwave oven
A2.1.1 Prepare containers of compacted material with a
water content determined by oven dry (Test Method D2216) or direct heater may be utilized for drying materials that are not
and a wet density calculated from the mass of the material and sensitive to combustion of organic material, in addition to the
the inside dimensions of the container. The water mass per unit method listed in A2.1.2. A minimum of three comparisons is
volume may be calculated as follows: recommended and the mean of the observed differences used as
the correction factor.
ρ 3w
Mm 5 (A2.1)
1001w A2.3 Container(s) of compacted material taken from the test
where: site shall be prepared in accordance with A2.1.1.
Mm = water mass per unit volume, kg/m3 or lbm/ft3, A2.4 Test site(s) or the compacted material shall be selected
w = water content, percent of dry mass, and
in accordance with the procedures in A2.1.2.
ρ = wet (total) density, kg/m3 or lbm/ft3.
A2.1.2 Where neither of the previous calibration standards A2.5 The method and test procedures used in obtaining the
are available, the gauge may be calibrated by using a minimum count rate to establish the error must be the same as those used
of three selected test sites in an area of a compaction project for measuring the water content of the material to be tested.
where material has been placed at several different water
contents. The test sites shall represent the range of water A2.6 The mean value of the difference between the water
contents over which the calibration is to be used. At least three content of the test samples as determined in A2.1.1 or A2.1.2
replicate nuclear measurements shall be made at each test site. and the values measured with the gauge shall be used as a
The density at each site shall be verified by measurements with correction to measurements made in the field. Many gauges
calibrated equipment in accordance with the procedures de- utilizing a microprocessor have provision to input a correction
scribed in this standard, Test Methods D1556, D2167, or factor that is established by the relative values of water content
D2937. The water content of the material at each of the test as a percentage of dry density, thus eliminating the need to
sites shall be determined using Test Method D2216. Use the determine the difference in mass units of water.
A3. EVALUATING GAUGE STANDARDIZATION
A3.1 The Poisson distribution of nuclear decay events, the A3.4 Because the ratio described in A3.3 is used to evaluate
half-life of the isotope used for the measurements, and other the aforementioned properties of the soil, any sources of
electronic and mechanical sources of variance all contribute to multiplicative changes to the nuclear counting properties of the
the variability and change in gauge standardization counts over gauge, such as source strength decay over time, are cancelled
time. and have little to no effect on gauge measurements.
A3.2 The purpose of the daily standardization count is A3.5 Other phenomena can have additive or subtractive
twofold—to compensate for the temporal effects on the gauge effects on the count rate, however, which can bias the counts
count rate, and to aid in identifying unacceptable levels of and can result in inaccurate measurements by the gauge.
change in gauge response.
A3.6 Daily standardization counts are initially evaluated as
A3.3 Wet density and water mass per unit volume properties follows:
of the soil under test are determined by first dividing the
measurement count by the standardization count. The resulting A3.6.1 The density and water standardization count taken
ratio is then used as the dependent variable in the calibration on a given day are compared to the respective average of the
equation to determine the wet density and the water mass per four preceding standardization counts.
unit volume of the soil.
8
D6938 − 17a
A3.6.2 If the density standardization count falls within the expanded uncertainty of the gauge count response for a
61 % of the average density counts, then the density standard- properly functioning gauge.
ization count is acceptable. A3.7.2 Calibration reports for these gauges typically come
A3.6.3 If the water standardization count falls within 62 % with a table that indicates the 62 % range of density standard-
of the average water counts, then the water standardization ization counts for a period of approximately one year after the
count is acceptable. time of calibration.
A3.7.3 Example—A nuclear gauge containing a 137Cs
A3.6.4 If either standardization count fails to meet these source for density determination (half-life = 11 023 days) and
limits, it is typically because an excessive amount of time has an 241Am:Be source for moisture determination (half-life = 157
passed between consecutive standardization counts and natural 788 days) is calibrated on March 1 of a specific year. At the
source decay prevents meeting this criteria. Evaluate the time of calibration, the density standard count was 2800 counts
density standardization count and water standardization count per minute (prescaled), and the moisture standard count was
in the following manner: 720 counts per minute (prescaled). According to Eq A3.1 and
A3.7 If either of the standardization counts is outside the Eq A3.2, what is the allowed range of standard counts for
limits set by Eq A3.1 and Eq A3.2, repeat the standardization November 1 of the same year?
A3.7.3.1 For this example, a total of 245 days have elapsed
check. If the second standardization check satisfies Eq A3.1
between the date of calibration or verification (March 1) and
and Eq A3.2, the gauge is considered in satisfactory operating
the date of the gauge standardization (November 1). Therefore:
condition.
t = 245 days
0.98~ N dc! e
2t ~ ln~ 2 !!
T d ~ 1/2 ! ,N d0 ,1.02~ N dc! e
2t ~ ln~ 2 !!
T d ~ 1/2 ! (A3.1) Td(1/2) = 11 023 days
and Tm(1/2) = 157 788 days
2t ~ ln~ 2 !! 2t ~ ln~ 2 !! Ndc = 2800 counts
0.98~ N mc! e T m ~ 1/2 ! ,N m0 ,1.02~ N mc! e T m ~ 1/2 ! (A3.2) Nmc = 720 counts
where: A3.7.3.2 According to Eq A3.1, therefore, the lower limit
Td(1/2) = the half-life of the isotope that is used for the for the density standard count taken on November 1, denoted
density determination in the gauge. For example, by Nd0, is:
for 137Cs, the radioactive isotope most commonly 0.98~ N dc! e
2t ~ ln~ 2 !!
T d ~ 1/2 ! 5 0.98~ 2800! e
2245~ ln~ 2 !!
11,023 5 2744e 20.01541 5 2702 counts
used for density determination in these gauges,
Td(1/2), is 11,023 days, A3.7.3.3 Likewise, the upper limit for the density standard
Tm(1/2) = the half-life of the isotope that is used for the water count taken on November 1, denoted by Nd0, is:
content determination in the gauge. For example, 1.02~ N dc! e
2t ~ ln~ 2 !!
T d ~ 1/2 ! 5 1.02~ 2800! e
2245~ ln~ 2 !!
11,023 5 2856e 20.01541 5 2812 counts
for 241Am, the radioactive isotope in Am:Be, the
radioactive source most commonly used for water A3.7.3.4 Therefore, the density standardization count ac-
content determination in these gauges, Tm(1/2), is quired on November 1 should lie somewhere between 2702
157,788 days, and 2812 counts, or 2702 ≤ Nd0 ≤ 2812.
Ndc = the density system standardization count acquired A3.7.3.5 According to Eq A3.2, the lower limit for the
at the time of the last calibration or verification, moisture standardization count taken on November 1 is:
Nmc = the moisture system standardization count acquired 0.98~ N mc! e
2t ~ ln~ 2 !!
T m ~ 1/2 ! 5 0.98~ 720! e
2245~ ln~ 2 !!
157,778 5 706e 20.00108 5 705 counts
at the time of the last calibration or verification,
Nd0 = the current density system standardization count, A3.7.3.6 Likewise, the upper limit for the moisture standard
Nm0 = the current moisture system standardization count, count taken on November 1, denoted by Nd0, is:
t = the time that has elapsed between the current 2 ~ ln~ 2 !! t 2 ~ ln~ 2 !! ·245
1.02~ N mc! e T m ~ 1/2 ! 5 1.02~ 720! e 157 788 5 734e 20.00108 5 733 counts
standardization test and the date of the last calibra-
tion or verification. The units selected for t, Td(1/2), A3.7.3.7 Therefore, the moisture standardization count ac-
and Tm(1/2) should be consistent, that is, if Td(1/2) is quired on November 1 should lie somewhere between 705 and
expressed in days, then t should also be expressed 733 counts, or 705 ≤ Nm0 ≤ 733.
in days,
ln(2) = the natural logarithm of 2, which has a value of A3.8 If one or both of the standardization counts fail to meet
approximately 0.69315, the limits described in A3.6.2 and A3.6.3, and additionally one
e = the inverse of the natural logarithm function, which or both of the standardization counts fail to meet the limits
has a value of approximately 2.71828. described in A3.7, the functionality of the gauge and/or the
accuracy of the calibration may be compromised. Under these
A3.7.1 The limits for Equations 1 and 2 are based on the circumstances the gauge should be removed from service until
exponential decay equation for isotopes of a known half-life. the source of the discrepancy can be identified and corrected.
They provide a 62 % range around the theoretical standard- Repairs or modifications to the gauge will require verification
ization count at the time of the reading based on the standard- of the existing calibration of the gauge, or a calibration of the
ization count at the time of calibration. This range is based on gauge, as described in Guide D7759.
9
D6938 − 17a
SUMMARY OF CHANGES
In accordance with Committee D18 policy, this section identifies the location of changes to this standard since
the last edition (2017) that may impact the use of this standard. (November 1, 2017)
(1) The Standardization section (Section 9) was simplified by

referencing a new annex (Annex A3), where Annex A3
provides a more detailed description of the manner in which a
daily standardization count must be evaluated.
In accordance with Committee D18 policy, this section identifies the location of changes to this standard since
the last edition (2015) that may impact the use of this standard. (March 1, 2017)
(1) Added the parenthetical expression “hereafter referred to as (5) The term “native fines” in the Procedure section was
gauge” to 1.1, and also omitted the last sentence from 1.1. replaced with the term “native material that does not contain
(2) Deleted the terms “wet density,” “dry density,” and “water gravel” because “fines” has a very specific definition that limits
content” from the Terminology section because these are the type of material that can be used in this application beyond
common terms defined in D653. what is necessary.
(3) Added the term “gravimetric water content” to the Termi- (6) Added Note 4, just before 10.6, recommending—but not
nology section. requiring—that density and water system counts be recorded
(4) Tools defined in the “Apparatus” section should have been along with density and water content values acquired during a
included in 10.2.3 and 10.4.2 to clarify the method(s) by which gauge measurement
the access hole for the probe is installed for a direct transmis-
sion reading.
ASTM International takes no position respecting the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any item mentioned
in this standard. Users of this standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk
of infringement of such rights, are entirely their own responsibility.
This standard is subject to revision at any time by the responsible technical committee and must be reviewed every five years and
if not revised, either reapproved or withdrawn. Your comments are invited either for revision of this standard or for additional standards
and should be addressed to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the
responsible technical committee, which you may attend. If you feel that your comments have not received a fair hearing you should
make your views known to the ASTM Committee on Standards, at the address shown below.
This standard is copyrighted by ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959,
United States. Individual reprints (single or multiple copies) of this standard may be obtained by contacting ASTM at the above
address or at 610-832-9585 (phone), 610-832-9555 (fax), or service@astm.org (e-mail); or through the ASTM website
(www.astm.org). Permission rights to photocopy the standard may also be secured from the Copyright Clearance Center, 222
Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923, Tel: (978) 646-2600; http://www.copyright.com/
10
RADIATION SAFETY MANUAL FOR NUCLEAR
DENSITY GAUGE
FEDERAL AUTHORITY FOR NUCLEAR
REGULATION (FANR) REGISTRATION
License No.: FANR/2011/109 ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ϡϗέ
>ΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔόοΎΧΕ΍Ωέϔϣϭ΃ΔϳϭϭϧΩ΍ϭϣϭ΃ˬΔόηϣέΩΎλϣ@ΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔόοΎΧΩ΍ϭϣϥϣοΗϳΔΑΎϗέϠϟϊοΎΧρΎηϧΔγέΎϣϣϟιϳΧέΗ
Licence to Conduct a Regulated Activity Involving Regulated Material
[Radiation Sources, Nuclear Material or Regulated Items]
Under the powers provided in Articles (6) and (28)(3)(a) of Federal ϥϣ ΃ 3 28 ϭ 6 ϥϳΗΩΎϣϟ΍ϲϓΎϬϳϠϋιϭλϧϣϟ΍ΕΎϳΣϼλϟ΍ΏΟϭϣΑ
Law by Decree No. 6 of 2009 Concerning the Peaceful Uses of ΔϳϣϠγϟ΍ΕϻΎϣόΗγϻ΍ϥ΄ηϲϓ2009Δϧγϟ 6 ϡϗέϱΩΎΣΗ΍ϥϭϧΎϘΑϡϭγέϣϟ΍
Nuclear Energy (the Law) and based on a submitted application for
a Licence, the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (the Δ΋ϳϬϟ΍ Δϳϭϭϧϟ΍ΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔϳΩΎΣΗϻ΍Δ΋ϳϬϟ΍ΕέΩλ΃ˬ ϥϭϧΎϘϟ΍ Δϳϭϭϧϟ΍ΔϗΎρϠϟ
Authority) hereby grants this Licence to: ϰϟ΍ιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍Ϋϫ
ARAB CENTER FOR ENGINEERING STUDIES ϲΑυϭΑ΍˰ΔϳγΩϧϬϟ΍ΕΎγ΍έΩϠϟϲΑέόϟ΍ίϛέϣϟ΍

ABU DHABI
P.O.Box: 5012, Musaffah, Abu Dhabi ϲΑυϭΑ΃ˬ΢ϔλϣˬ5012Ώι
Hereafter refered to as the Licensee ϪϟιΧέϣϟΎΑΩόΑΎϣϳϓϪϳϟ·έΎηϣϟ΍ϭ
Regulated Activities authorised by the Licence: ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ΏΟϭϣΑΎϬΗγέΎϣϣΑΡέλϣϟ΍ΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔόοΎΧϟ΍ΔρηϧϷ΍
The Licence authorises the Licensee to conduct the ΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔόοΎΧϟ΍ΔϳϟΎΗϟ΍ΔρηϧϷ΍ΔγέΎϣϣΑϪϟιΧέϣϠϟιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍Ϋϫ΢ϣγϳ

following Regulated Activities set forth in Article (25) of the ϥϭϧΎϘϟ΍ϥϣ25ΓΩΎϣϟ΍ϲϓΓΩέ΍ϭϟ΍ϭ
Law:
Possession, Use, Storage, Import, Export, Transport ϞϘϨϟ΍ˬήϳΪμΘϟ΍ˬΩ΍ήϴΘγ·ˬϦϳΰΨΗˬϡ΍ΪΨΘγ·ˬΓίΎϴΣ
For the purpose of: νέϐϟϙϟΫϭ
Analytical Techniques, Mobile Gauges, Well-logging έΎΑϵ΍ήΒγˬΔϛήΤΘϣβϴϳΎϘϣˬΔϴϠϴϠΤΘϟ΍ΕΎϴϨϘΘϟ΍
The Regulated Material involved in the Regulated Activity Ρέλϣϟ΍ΔΑΎϗέϠϟϊοΎΧϟ΍ρΎηϧϟ΍ϲϓΔϣΩΧΗγϣϟ΍ΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔόοΎΧϟ΍Ω΍ϭϣϟ΍

authorized by the Licence is listed in attachment 1 hereto. ιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍ΫϬΑϖϓέ˵ϣϟ΍ 1 ϝϭΩΟϟ΍ϲϓΔΟ˴έΩ˵ϣιϳΧέΗϟ΍ΏΟϭϣΑϪΗγέΎϣϣΑ
Licence Conditions: ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ρϭέη
- General Conditions: see attachment 2 2 ϖΣϠϣϟ΍έυϧ΍ΔϣΎϋρϭέη
- Special Condition: The licensee shall submit to the ϦϣκϠΨΘϟ΍Ε΍˯΍ήΟ·ΔΌϴϬϟ΍ϢϴϠδΗϪϟκΧήϤϟ΍ϰϠϋϦϴόΘϳΔλΎΧρϭήη

Authority arrangements for the disposal of radioactive ήϬη΍ΔΛϼΛϝϼΧΎϬϨϣϲ΋ΎϬϨϟ΍κϠΨΘϟ΍ΔτΧϭΔϣΪΨΘδϤϟ΍ήϴϏΔόθϤϟ΍έΩΎμϤϟ΍
sources and a plan for the final disposal of all disused κϴΧήΘϟ΍΍άϫέ΍Ϊλ·ΦϳέΎΗϦϣ
sources within three months from the date of issue of
this licence.
This Licence is granted without prejudice to any future decision ΔρηϧϷΎΑϖϠόΗϳΎϣϳϓΔ΋ϳϬϟ΍ϩΫΧΗΗϲϠΑϘΗγϣέ΍έϗϱ΄ΑϝϼΧϹ΍ϥϭΩΑιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍Ϋϫ΢ϧϣ˵ϳ

of the Authority regarding the Regulated Activities authorized by ΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔόοΎΧΩ΍ϭϣϥϣοΗΗϭιϳΧέΗϟ΍ΏΟϭϣΑΎϬΗγέΎϣϣΑΡέλϣϟ΍ΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔόοΎΧϟ΍
the Licence and involved Regulated Material
Christer Viktorsson ϥγέϭΗϛϳϓέΗγϳέϛ

Director General ϡΎόϟ΍έϳΩϣϟ΍
Date of Issue: 21/02/2021 έ΍Ωλϻ΍ΦϳέΎΗ

Expiry Date: 21/02/2024 ˯ΎϬΗϧϻ΍ΦϳέΎΗ
Federal Authority | ΔϳΩΎΣΗ·Δ΋ϳϫ

PO Box - 112021 - Ώι F +9712 651 6661 αϛΎϓ Abu Dhabi, Untited Arab Emiratres - ΓΩΣΗϣϟ΍ΔϳΑέόϟ΍Ε΍έΎϣϹ΍ˬϲΑυϭΑ΃
www.fanr.gov.ae Page 1 of 4
Attachment 1 (1) ϖΣϠϣϟ΍
A ʹSummary of the Authorized inventory: :ΎϬϟΡέλϣϟ΍έλΣϟ΍Δϣ΋ΎϘϟιΧϠϣ±΃

- Radioactive Sources: (total of 25) (25 ωϭϣΟϣϟ΍ ΔϳϋΎόηϹ΍έΩΎλϣϟ΍ -
Sealed Sources ΔϣϭΗΧϣΔόηϣέΩΎλϣ
(2) Caesium-137 up to 740 MBq, (3) Americium-241/Berrilium up to 5.55 GBq
Unsealed Sources ΔϣϭΗΧϣέϳϏΔόηϣέΩΎλϣ

(1) Cerium-137 up to 370 MBq, (9) Americium-241/Berrilium up to 16.65 GBq, (10) Caesium-137 up to 7.03 GBq
- Associated Equipment: (total of 13) (13 ωϭϣΟϣϟ΍ ΔϘϓ΍έϣϟ΍ΓίϬΟϷ΍ -

(12) Moisture and density gauge, (1) Well logging device
- Radiation Generators: (total of 1) (1 ωϭϣΟϣϟ΍ ωΎόηϹ΍Ε΍Ωϟϭϣ -

(1) XRF
B ʹWork-locations :ϝϣόϟ΍ϊϗ΍ϭϣ±Ώ
- Permanent: (total of 1) (1 ωϭϣΟϣϟ΍ ϡ΋΍Ω -
(1) Musaffah, Abu Dhabi: (ACES Abu Dhabi)

Attachment 2: General Conditions ΔϣΎόϟ΍ρϭέηϟ΍ 2 ϖΣϠϣϟ΍
1. Law, Regulations and Licence conditions ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ρϭέηϭ΢΋΍ϭϠϟ΍ϭϥϭϧΎϘϟ΍1
The Licensee shall conduct the Regulated Activities authorised ΏΟϭϣΑΎϬΑΡϭϣγϣϟ΍ΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔόοΎΧϟ΍ΔρηϧϷ΍ΔγέΎϣϣϪϟι˷Χέϣϟ΍ϰϠϋϥϳόΗϳ

by the Licence in accordance with: ϲϠϳΎϣϟ˱ΎϘϓϭιϳΧέΗϟ΍
a) the provisions of the Law, as may be amended; ˭ϪΗϼϳΩόΗϭˬϥϭϧΎϘϟ΍ϡΎϛΣ΃΃
b) the applicable regulations issued by the Authority pursuant to ˭ϥϭϧΎϘϟ΍ΏΟϭϣΑΔ΋ϳϬϟ΍ϥϋΓέΩΎλϟ΍ΔϳέΎγϟ΍΢΋΍ϭϠϟ΍Ώ
the Law;
c) the plans and procedures approved by the Authority pursuant ˭ΔϳέΎγϟ΍Δ΋ϳϬϟ΍΢΋΍ϭϟΏΟϭϣΑΔ΋ϳϬϟ΍ϥϣΓΩϣΗόϣϟ΍Ε΍˯΍έΟϹ΍ϭρρΧϟ΍Ν
to the applicable FANR regulations; ˭ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ΏϠρϖ΋ΎΛϭΩ
d) the application documents; and ιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍ΫϫϡΎϛΣ΃ϭρϭέηϩ
e) the terms and conditions of this Licence.
2. Validity of the Licence ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ΔϳΣϼλ2
i. This Licence shall remain in force for three years unless : ϡϟΎϣΕ΍ϭϧγΔΛϼΛΓΩϣϟ˱ΎϳέΎγιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍Ϋϫϝυϳ1
a) it is suspended or revoked by the Authority; ˭Ϫ΋Ύϐϟ·ϭ΃ϪϘϳϠόΗΑΔ΋ϳϬϟ΍ϡϭϘΗ΃
b) it is amended by the Authority; ˭ϪϠϳΩόΗΑΔ΋ϳϬϟ΍ϡϭϘΗΏ
c) it is surrendered by the Licensee subject to acceptance by ϭ΃˭Δ΋ϳϬϟ΍ΔϘϓ΍ϭϣΑ˱ΎϧϫέϪϟιΧέϣϟ΍ϪϧϋϝίΎϧΗϳΝ
the Authority; or
d) the Authority issues a Licence that supersedes this Licence ϩΫϫϝΛϣϲϓϭϪϧϣ˯ίΟϭ΃ιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍ΫϫϝΣϣϝΣϳιϳΧέΗΔ΋ϳϬϟ΍έΩλΗΩ
or part of this Licence. In such cases, any obligations of the ΍ΫϫΏΟϭϣΑΓΫϓΎϧϝυΗϥ΃ΎϬϟέέϘϣϪϟιΧέϣϠϟΕΎϣ΍ίΗϟ΍ϱ΃ϥΈϓˬΕϻΎΣϟ΍
Licensee under this Licence and/ or the Law and the Authority¶s ΍Ϋϫ˯ΎϬϧ·ΏϘϋΓΫϓΎϧϝυΗϥ΃ΎϬϟέέϘϣϟ΍Δ΋ϳϬϟ΍΢΋΍ϭϟϭϥϭϧΎϘϟ΍ϭ΃ϭιϳΧέΗϟ΍
regulations that are intended to remain in force following ιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍Ϋϫ˯ΎϬϧ·ΩόΑΔϳέΎγϥϭϛΗιϳΧέΗϟ΍
termination of this Licence shall apply after the termination of this
Licence. ϱ΄ΑϪϳϓϑέλΗϟ΍ϭ΃ϪϧϋϝίΎϧΗϟ΍ϭ΃Ϫϧϣ˯ίΟϱ΃ϭ΃ιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍ΫϫϝϘϧίϭΟϳϻ2
ΓέηΎΑϣέϳϏϭ΃ΓέηΎΑϣΓέϭλΑˬ˱Ύϣ΍ίϟ·ϭ΃˱ΎϋϭρϙϟΫϥΎϛ˯΍ϭγˬϝϛη
ii. This Licence, any part hereof, or any right hereunder shall not
be transferred or assigned either voluntarily or involuntarily,
ϥϣ˱Ύϣϭϳ 90 ϥϳόγΗϝΑϗιϳΧέΗϟ΍ΩϳΩΟΗϟΏϠρϡϳΩϘΗϪϟιΧέϣϟ΍ϰϠϋϥϳόΗϳ3
directly or indirectly.
ιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍ΫϫΔϳΣϼλ˯ΎϬΗϧ΍ΦϳέΎΗ
iii. The Licensee shall submit a Licence renewal application
ninety (90) calendar days before the expiry date of this Licence. ΔϟΎΣϲϓϭˬιϳΧέΗϟ΍ϥϋϝίΎϧΗϠϟΔϳϧϱ΄ΑΔ΋ϳϬϟ΍ύϼΑ·ϪϟιΧέϣϟ΍ϰϠϋϥϳόΗϳ4
˱Ύϣϭϳ 30 ϥϳΛϼΛϝΑϗΎϬϏϼΑ·ϪϳϠϋϥϳόΗϳΔΑΎϗέϠϟϊοΎΧϟ΍ρΎηϧϠϟϪϟρρΧϣϟ΍˯ΎϬϧϹ΍
iv. The Licensee shall notify the Authority of any intention to ιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍ΫϫΏΟϭϣΑΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔόοΎΧϟ΍ΔρηϧϷ΍˯ΎϬϧ·ϥϣ
surrender the Licence, and in case of planned termination of the
Regulated Activity at least 30 days prior to the termination of
Regulated Activities subject to this Licence.
3. Notifications ΕΎϏϼΑϟ΍3
i. The Licensee shall notify the Authority at least 30 days in ϝϗϷ΍ϰϠϋ˱Ύϣϭϳ 30 ϥϳΛϼΛϝΑϗΔ˰΋˰ϳϬϟ΍ύϼΑ·Ϫϟι˷Χέϣϟ΍ϰϠϋϥϳόΗϳ1
advance, and obtain the approval of the Authority prior to ϰϠϋΔγϭϣϠϣΕΎϳϋ΍ΩΗΎϬϧϋΞΗϧΗΩϗΕϼϳΩόΗϖϳΑρΗϝΑϗΎϬΗϘϓ΍ϭϣϰϠϋϝϭλΣϟ΍ϭ
implementing modifications that may result in significant ΕΎϧΎϣοϟ΍ϭ΃ϥϣϷ΍ϭ΃ϥΎϣϷ΍
implications for Safety, security or safeguards.
ii. The Licensee shall notify the Authority of any transport of the
Radioactive Source authorised by this Licence. Ρϭϣγϣϟ΍ϊηϣϟ΍έΩλϣϠϟϝϘϧΔϳϠϣϋϱ΄ΑΔ˰΋˰ϳϬϟ΍ύϼΑ·Ϫϟι˷Χέϣϟ΍ϰϠϋϥϳόΗϳ2
a). at least three (3) working days before the proposed date of ιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍ΫϫΏΟϭϣΑϪΑ
transport for a Category 1 source. 1Δ΋ϔϟ΍έΩΎλϣϝϘϧϟΡέΗϘϣϟ΍Ωϋϭϣϟ΍ϝΑϗϝϗϷ΍ϰϠϋϡΎϳ΃ 3 ΔΛϼΛ΃
b). at least 24 hours before the start of transport for a Category 3ϭ΃2Δ΋ϔϟ΍έΩΎλϣϝϘϧϲϓ˯ΩΑϟ΍ϝΑϗϝϗϷ΍ϰϠϋΔϋΎγ24Ώ
2 or a Category 3 source.

4. Access to the facilities and information ΕΎϣϭϠόϣϟ΍ϰϠϋωϼρϻ΍ϭϖϓ΍έϣϟ΍ϰϟ·ϝϭΧΩϟ΍4
i. The Licensee shall provide the Authority and its authorised ϱ΃ϰϟ·ϝϭΧΩϟΎΑϥϳοϭϔϣϟ΍ΎϬϳϠΛϣϣϭΔ΋ϳϬϠϟ΢ϣγϳϥ΃ϪϟιΧέϣϟ΍ϰϠϋϥϳόΗϳ1
representatives with access to any place, to any document, ι˷Χέϣϟ΍ΔρϠγΕΣΗιΧηϱ΃ΔϠΑΎϘϣϭ΃ϝΟγϭ΃ΔϘϳΛϭϱ΃ϰϠϋωϼρϻ΍ϭ΃ϥΎϛϣ
record or report or to any person under the Licensee¶s control or ϭ΃ˬϥρΎΑϟ΍ϥϣϪϳϟϭΎϘϣϭ΃ϪϳϟϭΎϘϣϭ΃ϪΗΎγγ΅ϣωϭέϓϥϣϱ΃ΔρϠγΕΣΗϭ΃Ϫϟ
the control of any of the Licensee¶s affiliates, contractors, ι˷Χέϣϟ΍ϥϋΔΑΎϳϧϝϣόΗϲΗϟ΍ΔϳϧϭϧΎϘϟ΍ΕΎϬΟϟ΍ϥϣϙϟΫέϳϏϭ΃ˬϪ΋ϼϛϭϭ΃ϪϳΩ˷έϭϣ
subcontractors, suppliers, agents or other legal entities acting on
behalf of the Licensee, and shall provide all assistance ϰοΗϘϣΑεϳΗϔΗϟ΍˯΍έΟ·ϥϣΔ΋ϳϬϟ΍ϥϳϛϣΗϟΔϣίϼϟ΍Ε΍ΩϋΎγϣϟ΍ϊϳϣΟέϓϭϳϥ΃ϭˬϪϟ
necessary to enable the Authority to inspect in accordance with ιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍ΫϫΏΟϭϣΑΎϬΑΡϭϣγϣϟ΍ΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔόοΎΧϟ΍ΔρηϧϷ΍ΔγέΎϣϣϰϠϋϥϭϧΎϘϟ΍
the Law the conduct of the Regulated Activities authorised by
this Licence. ΕΎϣϭϠόϣϟ΍ϥϣΎϫέϳϏϭιϳΧέΗϟ΍ϩΫϫϥϣΔΧγϧί΍έΑ·ϪϟιΧέϣϟ΍ϰϠϋϥϳόΗϳ2
ϪϟιΧέϣϟ΍έϘϣϝΧ΍ΩέϫΎυϊϗϭϣΑΔ΋ϳϬϟ΍ϪϳοΗϘΗΎϣΑγΣ
ii. The Licensee shall display a copy of this Licence and other
information as required by the Authority¶s at a visible location
within the Licensee¶s premises.
5. Requirements related to the Inventory ΓΩϬόϟΎΑΔϘϠόΗϣϟ΍ΕΎΑϠρΗϣϟ΍5
i. Once a Radioactive Source included in the inventory ˬϡΩΧΗγϣέϳϏ ΃ 1ϖΣϠϣϟ΍ ΓΩϬόϟ΍ϲϓΝέΩ˵ϣϟ΍ϊηϣϟ΍έΩλϣϟ΍΢Αλ˵ϳΎϣΩϧϋ1

(Attachment 1 (A) of the Licence) becomes disused, the Licensee 6 ΔΗγϥϭοϏϲϓΩ˶˷έϭϣϟ΍ϰϟ·ϪϋΎΟέ·ΔϳϠϣϋΏϳΗέΗϪϟιΧέϣϟ΍ϰϠϋϥϳόΗϳ
shall organise its return to the supplier within (6) six months from ΓΩϬόϟ΍ϲϓϊηϣϟ΍έΩλϣϟ΍ΔϟΎΣέϳϐΗΩϋϭϣϥϣέϭϬη
the date of the change of status of the Radioactive Source in the
inventory.
ϡΎυϧϡ΍ΩΧΗγΎΑ Δ΋ϳϬϟ΍ϥϣΔϘϓ΍ϭϣϲ˷ϘϠΗϭΏϠρϡϳΩϘΗιΧέϣϟ΍ϰϠϋϥϳόΗϳ2
ii. The Licensee shall request and receive approval from the 1ϖΣϠϣϟ΍ ΓΩϬόϟ΍ϲϓΓΩέ΍ϭΓΩέϔϣϟϝϘϧΔϳϠϣϋϱ΃ϝΑϗ Δ΋ϳϬϠϟϲϧϭέΗϛϟϹ΍ιϳΧέΗϟ΍
Authority (using the Authority¶s e-licensing system) prior to any ϡίϼϟ΍ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ϰϠϋϥϳϠλΎΣϟ΍ϰϠϋρϘϓϝϘϧϟ΍ΕΎϳϠϣϋέλΗϘΗιϳΧέΗϟ΍ϥϣ ΃
transfer of an item listed in the inventory (Attachment 1 (A) of the ϝϘϧϟ΍ΔϳϠϣϋϥ΄ηΑΕΎϣϭϠόϣϥϣοΗϳϥ΃ϰϠϋΔ΋ϳϬϟ΍ϥϣ
Licence). Such transfers shall only be made to holders of an
appropriate Licence granted by the Authority, and shall include ΔϘϠόΗϣϟ΍ΕΎϣϭϠόϣϟ΍ϭΓΩϬόϟ΍ΔϟΎΣΙϳΩΣΗϰϠϋΔΑυ΍ϭϣϟ΍ϪϟιΧέϣϟ΍ϰϠϋϥϳόΗϳ3
information regarding transportation. ϲϧϭέΗϛϟϹ΍ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ϡΎυϧ˱ΎϣΩΧΗγϣΓΩϬόϟ΍ϲϓέϳϳϐΗϱ΃ΙϭΩΣΩόΑΓέηΎΑϣΎϬΑ
Δ΋ϳϬϠϟ
iii. The Licensee shall maintain up-to-date the status and
information related to the inventory, directly after the occurrence
of any change in the inventory using the Authority¶s e-licensing
system.
6. Import and Export έϳΩλΗϟ΍ϭΩ΍έϳΗγϻ΍6
In addition to the requirements set forth in FANR-REG-09 as FANR-REG-09ϡϗέΔ΋ϳϬϟ΍ΔΣ΋ϻϲϓΓΩΩΣ˵ϣϟ΍ΕΎΑϠρΗϣϟ΍ϰϠϋΓϭϼϋ

amended, the Licensee shall obtain a permit from the Authority ΔϳϠϣϋϝϛϝΑϗΔ΋ϳϬϟ΍ϥϣ΢ϳέλΗϰϠϋϝϭλΣϟ΍Ϫϟι˷Χέϣϟ΍ϰϠϋϥϳόΗϳˬΎϬΗϼϳΩόΗϭ
prior to each import and/ or export of an item listed in the ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ϥϣ ΃ 1ϖΣϠϣϟ΍ ΓΩϬόϟ΍ϲϓΔΟέΩϣΓΩέϔϣϟέϳΩλΗϭ΃ϭΩ΍έϳΗγ΍
inventory (Attachment 1 (A) of the Licence) using the Authority¶s ϲϧϭέΗϛϟϹ΍ιϳΧέΗϠϟΔ΋ϳϬϟ΍ϡΎυϧϡ΍ΩΧΗγΎΑ
e-licensing system.

NUCLEAR GAUGE LEAKE CERTIFICATE AND
CALIBRATIONCERTIFICATE (FORMAT ONLY)
InstroTek Inc.
1 Triangle Drive
P.O. Box 13944
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
(919) 875-8371 Fax: (919) 875-8328
JANDY ROSALES Phone: 974-446-22614

ARAB CENTER FOR ENGG. STUDIES(SIGMA)
P.O. BOX 96241
DUBAI CITY, U A M A *******
LEAK TEST CERTIFICATE

InstroTek License #092-1073-1
This certifies that leak test analysis was conducted on the sample
with the following information. The results shown below accurately
represent the level of removable contamination.
Make: CPN
Model: MC-3 Date Swabbed: 5/26/2022
Serial Number: M380904519 Analysis Date: 8/5/2022
Source Type Serial Number Reading (uCi)

AmBe-241 AmBe-241 0
Cs-137 Cs-137 0.000217
Note: 0.005 MicroCuries (185 Bq) or greater is considered a leaking

source. The source(s) tested above may remain in use.
Reviewed by: ________________________________ Print Date: 8/5/2022
Customer Signature: __________________________ Date: ____________

CPN gauges are 50 mci Am241:Be and 10 mCi Cs-137. Humboldt gauges are 40 mCi
Am241:Be and 10 mCi Cs-137. InstroTek Gauge is 40 mCi Am241:Be and 10 mCi Cs-137.
Troxler gauges all, except 4640, are 40 mCi Am241:Be and 8 mCi Cs-137. Troxler 4640 is
8 mCi Cs-137. Refer to the manual for other products.
RTP, NC 919.875.8371 | Las Vegas, NV 702.270.3885 | Grand Rapids, MI 616.726.5850 | HMA 888.569.0499 |
Concord, CA 925.363.9770 | Denver, CO 303.955.5740 | Bensalem, PA 215.645.1064 | Cedar Park, TX 512.452.8848
SKETCH OF NUCLEAR GAUGE STORAGE
ROOM
THIRD PARTY CERTIFICATE FOR THE NDT
TECHNICIAN
RISK ASSESSMENT
RISK ASSESSMENT SHEET
Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment Sheet for:

Project: Document Name / NO. GC200139/4 Rev. 0
Health Risk Assessment
Fujairah
F3 IPP
Project
Initial Risk Rating Residual Risk Rating
Activity / Process and (No Control) (With Controls)
Item Risk / Consequence Controls
Hazards
P S R P S R
• Storage, mobilization, • Acute effects of • Obtain work and other permits from FANR as
demobilization and exposure necessary, prior to storage, transportation
taking measurement to high doses of ionizing and usage of nuclear gauges.
with moisture-density radiation include nausea, • Obtain vehicles entry permits from related
nuclear gauge vomiting and diarrhea; authorities, as necessary, prior to
• Radiation from the blistering and ulceration of mobilization or demobilization.
nuclear gauge. skin; hair loss; dermatitis; • Prior inspection of the site shall be conducted
Caesium-137 cataracts; anemia, due to to ensure it is safe
emits the gamma red blood cell damage; to work.
radiation. reduced immune system • Shielding the radiation source, keeping
Americium-241 due to white blood cell distance away from the source and
reaction with damage; infertility reducing time spent near the radiation
Beryllium emits the source as much as possible, shall always
neutron radiation. • Chronic effects of High be effectively implemented to ensure safe Low
3 3 2 1
Alpha and Beta exposure to ionizing Risk use of the nuclear gauge Risk
Particles are also radiation include cancer; • The nuclear gauge shall always be inside its
emitted by the genetic mutations and birth storage box when not in use, and kept
sources. Defects away from the public as much as possible
NB: The radiation • Calibration and leakage test of the nuclear
material inside the • Increase risk of radiation gauge shall be performed annually
nuclear gauge is exposure, Injuries • Intermediate check of the nuclear gauge to
minute (See that could result ensure it is safe to use and its radiation
section 1.2 of the from traffic accidents. sources are not leaking, shall be performed
attached Radiation bi-weekly and as deem necessary.
Safety Program for • Competence of the radiation worker shall be
More information. ensured through
relevant training, experience, skills,
education, attitude, and others as
Page 1 of 5

Fujairah
F3 IPP
Project
Hazards
P S R P S R
necessary
• The worker and the public exposure to

radiation due to ACES Work activities shall
be monitored, to ensure it is within ACES
radiation exposure limit (see section 5 of
the attached ACES Radiation Safety
Program for more information).
• All drivers shall hold valid UAE driving
licenses, and have related training on safe
mobilization / demobilization of nuclear
gauges.
• TBT shall be conducted on safe driving and
safe usage of nuclear gauge as necessary.
• Ensure the site is controlled. No unauthorized
entry to the worksite (at least 3 meters to
the nuclear gauge location).
• The nuclear gauge user (worker) shall always
maintain a distance of about 3 meters from
the test location (nuclear gauge location)
when possible.
• The nuclear gauge user shall ensure the
nuclear gauge is always within his sight to
prevent any unauthorized entry to the test
location (3 meters to the nuclear gauge
location)
• Necessary PPE shall be provided such as
hand gloves to mitigate any potential
contamination with the radiation source
during leakage.
Page 2 of 5

Fujairah
F3 IPP
Project
Hazards
P S R P S R
• Proper maintenance of the vehicles as per the
manufacturer’s recommendation and
related regulations in UAE, and ensure
daily inspection of the vehicle prior to
usage.
• All vehicles shall be provided with adequate
fire extinguishers and first aid box
• While setting up on a new location, always
provide adequate safe access for
emergencies
• Assembly point shall be established on the
site and emergency drill shall be conducted
prior to the commencement of work on the
site.
• Necessary sign post shall be in place, such as
the radiation storage area safety sign and
the assembly point sign post which shall be
located at least 5 meters from the test
location.
• All personnel shall be provided with an
emergency contact numbers and ACES
RSO contact number
• The nuclear gauge shall be stored on site at a
specially designated and properly labeled
storage area or inside a properly parked
and well labeled project vehicle (see
section 6.4of the attached Radiation Safety
Program for more information)
Page 3 of 5

Fujairah
F3 IPP
Project
Hazards
P S R P S R
• The nuclear gauge shall be positioned in the

vehicle far away from the personnel as
much as possible. When possible, no
personnel should travel inside the same
vehicle with the nuclear gauge, except the
driver. (Please, see section 6.2.3 of the
attached Radiation Safety Program for
more information).
When completing this Performa, you must take due consideration of local conditions, including adjacent operations and premises.
Person Responsible for Completing the Risk Assessment:
Name Mr. Ossama Sarfraz , Ph: 0529128360 Position Radiation Safety Officer (ACES)
Signature Date 13/03/2023 Review Date
Name Position
Page 4 of 5

Fujairah
F3 IPP
Project
Hazards
P S R P S R
Signature Date Review Date
PROBABILITY
RISK POTENTIAL MATRIX – SEMI QUANTITATIVE 1 2 3 4 5
Frequent /
Severity
People Asset Environment Reputation Rare Possible Likely Often almost
Rating certain
Slight Slight Slight
1. Insignificant Slight injury or Health effect 1 2 3 4 5
damage effect impact
Minor Minor Limited
2. Minor Minor injury or Health effect 2 4 6 8 10
damage pollution impact
Moderate injury or Health Localized Impacting Medium
3. Moderate 3 6 9 12 15
effect damage pollution impact
Single fatality or permanent Major Significant Major
4. Major 4 8 12 16 20
total disability damage pollution impact
Multiple fatalities or Extensive Massive Massive
5. Catastrophic 5 10 15 20 25
permanent disabilities damage pollution effect
15-25 Extreme Risk Activity or industry should not proceed in current form.
Activity or industry should be modified to include remedial planning and action and be subject to
8-12 High Risk
detailed OSH assessment.
4-6 Moderate Risk Activity or industry can operate subject to management and / or modification.
1-3 Low Risk No immediate action required, unless escalation of risk is possible.
Page 5 of 5

GC230028 Ref.1

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

GC230028 Ref.1

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

METHOD STATEMENT FOR IN-PLACE

DENSITY AND WATER CONTENT OF SOIL AND

1.0 Scope ………………………………………………………. 4

2.0 Significance and Use …………………………………….… 4

3.0 Summary of test method……………………………………. 4

4.0 Apparatus ………………………………………………….. 5

5.0 Quality Assurance ………………………………….………. 7

6.0 Test Personnel …………………………………….………. 8

7.0 Test Procedure (Direct Transmission Procedure) ………… 8

8.0 Calculation of Results……..……………………………… 10

9.0 Safety…………….. ……………………………….……… 10

10.0 Test Report …………….. ………………………………… 11

11.0 Transportation ……………………………………………… 11

12.0 Storage ………………………………………………… 11

13.0 References ………………………………………………… 12

1.4 This Method Statement is limited to Direct Transmission Procedure.

2.0 SIGNIFICANCE AND USE

3.0 SUMMARY OF TEST METHOD

There are two methods of testing:

Direct Transmission Procedure

4.1 NUCLEAR GAUGE

 A sealed source of high energy gamma radiation such as cesium or radium.

1. MC-1 PORTAPROBE ,CPN (USA)

4.2 REFERENCE STANDARD

4.3 SITE PREPARATION DEVICES

4.4 DRIVE PIN

Fig 1 presents the Nuclear Meters available with ACES -CPN.

Fig.1 Nuclear Density Gauges: CPN

5.1 Standardization and Reference Check

5.2 Moisture Correction.

5.3 Density Compaction Box Calibration

6.0 TEST PERSONNEL

7.0 TEST PROCEDURE (DIRECT TRANSMISSION PROCEDURE)

7.1 Standardize the gage. (See Section 5.1)

7.7 Insert the probe in the hole.

10. TEST REPORT

Report the following information:

10.2 Make, model and serial number of the test instrument.

10.3 Name of the operator(s).

10.4 Test site identification.

10.5 Visual description of material tested.

10.7 Wet and dry densities in kg/m3 or unit weights in (lbf/ft3)

10.8 Water content in percent of dry mass or dry unit weight.

a) Transportation of materials shall be performed only in a specialized and FANR / Civil

e) Vehicles with regulated materials must not be parked overnight at residences.

g) Regulated materials should not be left unsecured at any time.

Field Storage Requirements: The following requirements must be complied

CPN Manufacturer’s Manuals

Designation: D6938 − 17a

Standard Test Methods for

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

TABLE 1 Results of Statistical Analysis (Wet Density)A

TABLE 3 Results of Statistical Analysis (% Water Content)A

A1. GAUGE PRECISION

A2. FIELD MOISTURE CONTENT ADJUSTMENTS

A3. EVALUATING GAUGE STANDARDIZATION

(1) The Standardization section (Section 9) was simplified by

ARAB CENTER FOR ENGINEERING STUDIES ϲΑυϭΑ΍˰ΔϳγΩϧϬϟ΍ΕΎγ΍έΩϠϟϲΑέόϟ΍ίϛέϣϟ΍

Hereafter refered to as the Licensee ϪϟιΧέϣϟΎΑΩόΑΎϣϳϓϪϳϟ·έΎηϣϟ΍ϭ

Regulated Activities authorised by the Licence: ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ΏΟϭϣΑΎϬΗγέΎϣϣΑΡέλϣϟ΍ΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔόοΎΧϟ΍ΔρηϧϷ΍

The Licence authorises the Licensee to conduct the ΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔόοΎΧϟ΍ΔϳϟΎΗϟ΍ΔρηϧϷ΍ΔγέΎϣϣΑϪϟιΧέϣϠϟιϳΧέΗϟ΍΍Ϋϫ΢ϣγϳ

Possession, Use, Storage, Import, Export, Transport ϞϘϨϟ΍ˬήϳΪμΘϟ΍ˬΩ΍ήϴΘγ·ˬϦϳΰΨΗˬϡ΍ΪΨΘγ·ˬΓίΎϴΣ

For the purpose of: νέϐϟϙϟΫϭ

Analytical Techniques, Mobile Gauges, Well-logging έΎΑϵ΍ήΒγˬΔϛήΤΘϣβϴϳΎϘϣˬΔϴϠϴϠΤΘϟ΍ΕΎϴϨϘΘϟ΍

Regulated Activities authorised by the Licence: ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ΏΟϭϣΑΎϬΗγέΎϣϣΑΡέλϣϟ΍ΔΑΎϗέϠϟΔόοΎΧϟ΍ΔρηϧϷ΍

For the purpose of: νέϐϟϙϟΫϭ

Licence Conditions: ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ρϭέη

- General Conditions: see attachment 2 2 ϖΣϠϣϟ΍έυϧ΍ΔϣΎϋρϭέη

- Special Condition: The licensee shall submit to the ϦϣκϠΨΘϟ΍Ε΍˯΍ήΟ·ΔΌϴϬϟ΍ϢϴϠδΗϪϟκΧήϤϟ΍ϰϠϋϦϴόΘϳΔλΎΧρϭήη

Date of Issue: 21/02/2021 έ΍Ωλϻ΍ΦϳέΎΗ

- Associated Equipment: (total of 13) (13 ωϭϣΟϣϟ΍ ΔϘϓ΍έϣϟ΍ΓίϬΟϷ΍ -

- Radiation Generators: (total of 1) (1 ωϭϣΟϣϟ΍ ωΎόηϹ΍Ε΍Ωϟϭϣ -

Attachment 2: General Conditions ΔϣΎόϟ΍ρϭέηϟ΍ 2 ϖΣϠϣϟ΍

1. Law, Regulations and Licence conditions ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ρϭέηϭ΢΋΍ϭϠϟ΍ϭϥϭϧΎϘϟ΍1

2. Validity of the Licence ιϳΧέΗϟ΍ΔϳΣϼλ2

4. Access to the facilities and information ΕΎϣϭϠόϣϟ΍ϰϠϋωϼρϻ΍ϭϖϓ΍έϣϟ΍ϰϟ·ϝϭΧΩϟ΍4

5. Requirements related to the Inventory ΓΩϬόϟΎΑΔϘϠόΗϣϟ΍ΕΎΑϠρΗϣϟ΍5

i. Once a Radioactive Source included in the inventory ˬϡΩΧΗγϣέϳϏ ΃ 1ϖΣϠϣϟ΍ ΓΩϬόϟ΍ϲϓΝέΩ˵ϣϟ΍ϊηϣϟ΍έΩλϣϟ΍΢Αλ˵ϳΎϣΩϧϋ1

6. Import and Export έϳΩλΗϟ΍ϭΩ΍έϳΗγϻ΍6

Customer Signature: ______________ Date: