Designation: D2487 – 11

Standard Practice for

Classification of Soils for Engineering Purposes (Unified
Soil Classification System)1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2487; 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.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense.

1. Scope* grande in the early 1940s.2 It became known as the Unified

1.1 This practice describes a system for classifying mineral Soil Classification System when several U.S. Government
and organo-mineral soils for engineering purposes based on Agencies adopted a modified version of the Airfield System in
laboratory determination of particle-size characteristics, liquid 1952.
limit, and plasticity index and shall be used when precise 1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
classification is required. safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
NOTE 1—Use of this standard will result in a single classification group priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
symbol and group name except when a soil contains 5 to 12 % fines or
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
when the plot of the liquid limit and plasticity index values falls into the
crosshatched area of the plasticity chart. In these two cases, a dual symbol 1.7 This practice offers a set of instructions for performing
is used, for example, GP-GM, CL-ML. When the laboratory test results one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace
indicate that the soil is close to another soil classification group, the education or experience and should be used in conjunction
borderline condition can be indicated with two symbols separated by a with professional judgment. Not all aspects of this practice may
slash. The first symbol should be the one based on this standard, for be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not
example, CL/CH, GM/SM, SC/CL. Borderline symbols are particularly intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which
useful when the liquid limit value of clayey soils is close to 50. These soils
can have expansive characteristics and the use of a borderline symbol
the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged,
(CL/CH, CH/CL) will alert the user of the assigned classifications of nor should this document be applied without consideration of
expansive potential. a project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the
1.2 The group symbol portion of this system is based on title of this document means only that the document has been
laboratory tests performed on the portion of a soil sample approved through the ASTM consensus process.
passing the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve (see Specification E11). 2. Referenced Documents
1.3 As a classification system, this standard is limited to
2.1 ASTM Standards:3
naturally occurring soils.
C117 Test Method for Materials Finer than 75-µm (No. 200)
NOTE 2—The group names and symbols used in this test method may Sieve in Mineral Aggregates by Washing
be used as a descriptive system applied to such materials as shale, C136 Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse
claystone, shells, crushed rock, etc. See Appendix X2. Aggregates
1.4 This standard is for qualitative application only. C702 Practice for Reducing Samples of Aggregate to Test-
NOTE 3—When quantitative information is required for detailed de-
ing Size
signs of important structures, this test method must be supplemented by D420 Guide to Site Characterization for Engineering De-
laboratory tests or other quantitative data to determine performance sign and Construction Purposes
characteristics under expected field conditions. D422 Test Method for Particle-Size Analysis of Soils
1.5 This standard is the ASTM version of the Unified Soil D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
Classification System. The basis for the classification scheme Fluids
is the Airfield Classification System developed by A. Casa- D1140 Test Methods for Amount of Material in Soils Finer

1 2
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Casagrande, A., “Classification and Identification of Soils,” Transactions,
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.07 on Identification and ASCE, 1948 , p. 901.
3
Classification of Soils. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved May 1, 2011. Published June 2011. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1966. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as D2487–10. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/D2487-11. the ASTM website.

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

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 D2487 – 11
than No. 200 (75-µm) Sieve 3.1.6 sand—particles of rock that will pass a No. 4 (4.75-
D2216 Test Methods for Laboratory Determination of Wa- mm) sieve and be retained on a No. 200 (75-µm) U.S. standard
ter (Moisture) Content of Soil and Rock by Mass sieve with the following subdivisions:
D2488 Practice for Description and Identification of Soils Coarse—passes No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve and retained on No.
(Visual-Manual Procedure) 10 (2.00-mm) sieve,
D3740 Practice for Minimum Requirements for Agencies Medium—passes No. 10 (2.00-mm) sieve and retained on
Engaged in Testing and/or Inspection of Soil and Rock as No. 40 (425-µm) sieve, and
Used in Engineering Design and Construction Fine—passes No. 40 (425-µm) sieve and retained on No.
D4083 Practice for Description of Frozen Soils (Visual- 200 (75-µm) sieve.
Manual Procedure) 3.1.7 silt—soil passing a No. 200 (75-µm) U.S. standard
D4318 Test Methods for Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit, and sieve that is nonplastic or very slightly plastic and that exhibits
Plasticity Index of Soils little or no strength when air dry. For classification, a silt is a
D4427 Classification of Peat Samples by Laboratory Test- fine-grained soil, or the fine-grained portion of a soil, with a
ing plasticity index less than 4 or if the plot of plasticity index
D6913 Test Methods for Particle-Size Distribution (Grada- versus liquid limit falls below the “A” line.
tion) of Soils Using Sieve Analysis 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 coeffıcient of curvature, Cc—the ratio (D 30 ) 2 /
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test
(D10 3 D60), where D60, D30, and D10 are the particle sizes
Sieves
corresponding to 60, 30, and 10 % finer on the cumulative
particle-size distribution curve, respectively.
3. Terminology
3.2.2 coeffıcient of uniformity, Cu—the ratio D60/D10, where
3.1 Definitions—Except as listed below, all definitions are D60 and D10 are the particle diameters corresponding to 60 and
in accordance with Terminology D653. 10 % finer on the cumulative particle-size distribution curve,
NOTE 4—For particles retained on a 3-in. (75-mm) U.S. standard sieve, respectively.
the following definitions are suggested:
4. Summary
Cobbles—particles of rock that will pass a 12-in. (300-mm) square
opening and be retained on a 3-in. (75-mm) U.S. standard sieve, and 4.1 As illustrated in Table 1, this classification system
Boulders—particles of rock that will not pass a 12-in. (300-mm) square identifies three major soil divisions: coarse-grained soils,
opening. fine-grained soils, and highly organic soils. These three divi-
sions are further subdivided into a total of 15 basic soil groups.
3.1.1 clay—soil passing a No. 200 (75-µm) U.S. standard 4.2 Based on the results of visual observations and pre-
sieve that can be made to exhibit plasticity (putty-like proper- scribed laboratory tests, a soil is catalogued according to the
ties) within a range of water contents and that exhibits basic soil groups, assigned a group symbol(s) and name, and
considerable strength when air dry. For classification, a clay is thereby classified. The flow charts, Fig. 1 for fine-grained soils,
a fine-grained soil, or the fine-grained portion of a soil, with a and Fig. 3 for coarse-grained soils, can be used to assign the
plasticity index equal to or greater than 4, and the plot of appropriate group symbol(s) and name.
plasticity index versus liquid limit falls on or above the “A”
line. 5. Significance and Use
3.1.2 gravel—particles of rock that will pass a 3-in. (75- 5.1 This standard classifies soils from any geographic loca-
mm) sieve and be retained on a No. 4 (4.75-mm) U.S. standard tion into categories representing the results of prescribed
sieve with the following subdivisions: laboratory tests to determine the particle-size characteristics,
Coarse—passes 3-in. (75-mm) sieve and retained on 3⁄4-in. the liquid limit, and the plasticity index.
(19-mm) sieve, and 5.2 The assigning of a group name and symbol(s) along
Fine—passes 3⁄4-in. (19-mm) sieve and retained on No. 4 with the descriptive information required in Practice D2488
(4.75-mm) sieve. can be used to describe a soil to aid in the evaluation of its
3.1.3 organic clay—a clay with sufficient organic content to significant properties for engineering use.
influence the soil properties. For classification, an organic clay 5.3 The various groupings of this classification system have
is a soil that would be classified as a clay except that its liquid been devised to correlate in a general way with the engineering
limit value after oven drying is less than 75 % of its liquid limit behavior of soils. This standard provides a useful first step in
value before oven drying. any field or laboratory investigation for geotechnical engineer-
3.1.4 organic silt—a silt with sufficient organic content to ing purposes.
influence the soil properties. For classification, an organic silt 5.4 This standard may also be used as an aid in training
is a soil that would be classified as a silt except that its liquid personnel in the use of Practice D2488.
limit value after oven drying is less than 75 % of its liquid limit 5.5 This standard may be used in combination with Practice
value before oven drying. D4083 when working with frozen soils.
3.1.5 peat—a soil composed of vegetable tissue in various NOTE 5—Notwithstanding the statements on precision and bias con-
stages of decomposition usually with an organic odor, a tained in this standard: The precision of this test method is dependent on
dark-brown to black color, a spongy consistency, and a texture the competence of the personnel performing it and the suitability of the
ranging from fibrous to amorphous. equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice

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 D2487 – 11
TABLE 1 Soil Classification Chart
Soil Classification
Criteria for Assigning Group Symbols and Group Names Using Laboratory TestsA Group
Group NameB
Symbol
COARSE-GRAINED SOILS Gravels Clean Gravels Cu $ 4 and 1 # Cc # 3D GW Well-graded gravelE
(More than 50 % (Less than 5 % finesC)
of coarse fraction retained on Cu < 4 and/or GP Poorly graded gravelE
No. 4 sieve) [Cc < 1 or Cc > 3]D

Gravels with Fines Fines classify as ML or MH GM Silty gravelE,F,G

(More than 12 % finesC)
More than 50 % Fines classify as CL or CH GC Clayey gravelE,F,G
retained on No. 200 sieve
Sands Clean Sands Cu $ 6 and 1 # Cc # 3D SW Well-graded sandI
(50 % or more of coarse (Less than 5 % finesH)
Cu < 6 and/or SP Poorly graded sandI
fraction passes
[Cc < 1 or Cc > 3]D
No. 4 sieve)
Sands with Fines Fines classify as ML or MH SM Silty sandF,G,I
(More than 12 % finesH)
Fines classify as CL or CH SC Clayey sandF,G,I
J
FINE-GRAINED SOILS Silts and Clays inorganic PI > 7 and plots on or above “A” line CL Lean clayK,L,M
J
Liquid limit PI < 4 or plots below “A” line ML SiltK,L,M
less than 50
organic Liquid limit 2 oven dried OL Organic clayK,L,M,N
< 0.75
Liquid limit 2 not dried Organic siltK,L,M,O
50 % or more
passes the No. 200 sieve
Silts and Clays inorganic PI plots on or above “A” line CH Fat clayK,L,M
Liquid limit PI plots below “A” line MH Elastic siltK,L,M
50 or more
organic Liquid limit 2 oven dried OH Organic clayK,L,M,P
< 0.75
Liquid limit 2 not dried Organic siltK,L,M,Q

HIGHLY ORGANIC SOILS Primarily organic matter, dark in color, and organic odor PT Peat
A
Based on the material passing the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve.
B
If field sample contained cobbles or boulders, or both, add “with cobbles or boulders, or both” to group name.
C
Gravels with 5 to 12 % fines require dual symbols:
GW-GM well-graded gravel with silt
GW-GC well-graded gravel with clay
GP-GM poorly graded gravel with silt
GP-GC poorly graded gravel with clay
D
E
/
Cu = D 60/D10 Cc 5 ~D 30!2 D10 3 D 60
If soil contains $15 % sand, add “with sand” to group name.
F
If fines classify as CL-ML, use dual symbol GC-GM, or SC-SM.
G
If fines are organic, add “with organic fines” to group name.
H
Sands with 5 to 12 % fines require dual symbols:
SW-SM well-graded sand with silt
SW-SC well-graded sand with clay
SP-SM poorly graded sand with silt
SP-SC poorly graded sand with clay
I
If soil contains $15 % gravel, add “with gravel” to group name.
J
If Atterberg limits plot in hatched area, soil is a CL-ML, silty clay.
K
If soil contains 15 to <30 % plus No. 200, add “with sand” or “with gravel,” whichever is predominant.
L
If soil contains $30 % plus No. 200, predominantly sand, add “sand ” to group name.
M
If soil contains $30 % plus No. 200, predominantly gravel, add “gravelly” to group name.
N
PI $ 4 and plots on or above “A” line.
O
PI < 4 or plots below “A” line.
P
PI plots on or above “A” line.
Q
PI plots below “A” line.

D3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective NOTE 6—The “U” line shown on Fig. 4 has been empirically deter-
testing. Users of this test method are cautioned that compliance with mined to be the approximate “upper limit” for natural soils. It is a good
Practice D3740 does not in itself assure reliable testing. Reliable testing check against erroneous data, and any test results that plot above or to the
depends on several factors; Practice D3740 provides a means for left of it should be verified.
evaluating some of those factors.
7. Sampling
6. Apparatus 7.1 Samples shall be obtained and identified in accordance
6.1 In addition to the apparatus that may be required for with a method or methods, recommended in Guide D420 or by
obtaining and preparing the samples and conducting the other accepted procedures.
prescribed laboratory tests, a plasticity chart, similar to Fig. 4, 7.2 Test Methods D6913 provides guidance on selecting
and a cumulative particle-size distribution curve, similar to Fig. size of specimen. Two test methods are provided in this
5, are required. standard. The methods differ in the significant digits recorded

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 D2487 – 11

FIG. 1 Flow Chart for Classifying Fine-Grained Soil (50 % or More Passes No. 200 Sieve)

and the size of the specimen (mass) required. The method to be dures. Two procedures for preparation of the soil specimens for
used may be specified by the requesting authority; otherwise testing for soil classification purposes are given in Appendixes
Method A shall be performed. Whenever possible, the field X3 and X4. Appendix X3 describes the wet preparation method
samples should have weights two to four times larger than and is the preferred method for cohesive soils that have never
shown. dried out and for organic soils.
7.3 If the field sample or test specimen is smaller than the 9.3 When reporting soil classifications determined by this
minimum recommended amount, the report shall include an standard, the preparation and test procedures used shall be
appropriate remark. reported or referenced.
9.4 Although the test procedure used in determining the
8. Classification of Peat
particle-size distribution or other considerations may require a
8.1 A sample composed primarily of vegetable tissue in hydrometer analysis of the material, a hydrometer analysis is
various stages of decomposition and has a fibrous to amor- not necessary for soil classification.
phous texture, a dark-brown to black color, and an organic odor 9.5 The percentage (by dry weight) of any plus 3-in.
should be designated as a highly organic soil and shall be (75-mm) material must be determined and reported as auxiliary
classified as peat, PT, and not subjected to the classification information.
procedures described hereafter.
9.6 The maximum particle size shall be determined (mea-
8.2 If desired, classification of type of peat can be per-
sured or estimated) and reported as auxiliary information.
formed in accordance with Classification D4427.
9.7 When the cumulative particle-size distribution is re-
9. Preparation for Classification quired, a set of sieves shall be used which include the
9.1 Before a soil can be classified according to this standard, following sizes (with the largest size commensurate with the
generally the particle-size distribution of the minus 3-in. maximum particle size) with other sieve sizes as needed or
(75-mm) material and the plasticity characteristics of the minus required to define the particle-size distribution:
No. 40 (425-µm) sieve material must be determined. See 9.8
for the specific required tests. 3-in. (75-mm)
3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm)
9.2 The preparation of the soil specimen(s) and the testing No. 4 (4.75-mm)
for particle-size distribution and liquid limit and plasticity No. 10 (2.00-mm)
index shall be in accordance with accepted standard proce- No. 40 (425-µm)

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 D2487 – 11
No. 200 (75-µm) 11.1.1 Classify the soil as a lean clay, CL, if the liquid limit
is less than 50. See area identified as CL on Fig. 4.
9.8 The tests required to be performed in preparation for 11.1.2 Classify the soil as a fat clay, CH, if the liquid limit
classification are as follows: is 50 or greater. See area identified as CH on Fig. 4.
9.8.1 For soils estimated to contain less than 5 % fines, a NOTE 8—In cases where the liquid limit exceeds 110 or the plasticity
plot of the cumulative particle-size distribution curve of the index exceeds 60, the plasticity chart may be expanded by maintaining the
fraction coarser than the No. 200 (75-µm) sieve is required. A same scale on both axes and extending the “A” line at the indicated slope.
semi-log plot of percent passing versus partical-size or sieve 11.1.3 Classify the soil as a silty clay, CL-ML, if the
size/sieve number is plotted as shown in Fig. 5. position of the plasticity index versus liquid limit plot falls on
9.8.2 For soils estimated to contain 5 to 15 % fines, a or above the “A” line and the plasticity index is in the range of
cumulative particle-size distribution curve, as described in 4 to 7. See area identified as CL-ML on Fig. 4.
9.8.1, is required, and the liquid limit and plasticity index are 11.2 The soil is an inorganic silt if the position of the
required. plasticity index versus liquid limit plot, Fig. 4, falls below the
9.8.2.1 If sufficient material is not available to determine the “A” line or the plasticity index is less than 4, and presence of
liquid limit and plasticity index, the fines should be estimated organic matter does not influence the liquid limit as determined
to be either silty or clayey using the procedures described in in 11.3.2.
Practice D2488 and so noted in the report. 11.2.1 Classify the soil as a silt, ML, if the liquid limit is
9.8.3 For soils estimated to contain 15 % or more fines, a less than 50. See area identified as ML on Fig. 4.
determination of the percent fines, percent sand, and percent 11.2.2 Classify the soil as an elastic silt, MH, if the liquid
gravel is required, and the liquid limit and plasticity index are limit is 50 or greater. See area identified as MH on Fig. 4.
required. For soils estimated to contain 90 % fines or more, the 11.3 The soil is an organic silt or clay if organic matter is
percent fines, percent sand, and percent gravel may be esti- present in sufficient amounts to influence the liquid limit as
mated using the procedures described in Practice D2488 and so determined in 11.3.2.
noted in the report. 11.3.1 If the soil has a dark color and an organic odor when
moist and warm, a second liquid limit test shall be performed
10. Preliminary Classification Procedure
on a test specimen which has been oven dried at 110 6 5°C to
10.1 Class the soil as fine-grained if 50 % or more by dry a constant weight, typically over night.
weight of the test specimen passes the No. 200 (75-µm) sieve 11.3.2 The soil is an organic silt or organic clay if the liquid
and follow Section 3.1.2. limit after oven drying is less than 75 % of the liquid limit of
10.2 Class the soil as coarse-grained if more than 50 % by the original specimen determined before oven drying.
dry weight of the test specimen is retained on the No. 200 11.3.3 Classify the soil as an organic silt or organic clay,
(75-µm) sieve and follow Section 12. OL, if the liquid limit (not oven dried) is less than 50 %.
11. Procedure for Classification of Fine-Grained Soils Classify the soil as an organic silt, OL, if the plasticity index
(50 % or more by dry weight passing the No. 200 (75- is less than 4, or the position of the plasticity index versus
µm) sieve) liquid limit plot falls below the “A” line. Classify the soil as an
organic clay, OL, if the plasticity index is 4 or greater and the
11.1 The soil is an inorganic clay if the position of the position of the plasticity index versus liquid limit plot falls on
plasticity index versus liquid limit plot, Fig. 4, falls on or above or above the “A” line. See area identified as OL (or CL-ML) on
the “A” line, the plasticity index is greater than 4, and the Fig. 4.
presence of organic matter does not influence the liquid limit as 11.3.4 Classify the soil as an organic clay or organic silt,
determined in 11.3.2. OH, if the liquid limit (not oven dried) is 50 or greater. Classify
NOTE 7—The plasticity index and liquid limit are determined on the the soil as an organic silt, OH, if the position of the plasticity
minus No. 40 (425 µm) sieve material. index versus liquid limit plot falls below the “A” line. Classify

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 D2487 – 11

FIG. 2 Flow Chart for Classifying Organic Fine-Grained Soil (50 % or More Passes No. 200 Sieve)

the soil as an organic clay, OH, if the position of the plasticity Cu5D60/D10 (1)
index versus liquid-limit plot falls on or above the “A” line. 2
Cc5~D30! /~D103D60! (2)
See area identified as OH on Fig. 4.
11.4 If less than 30 % but 15 % or more of the test specimen where:
is retained on the No. 200 (75-µm) sieve, the words“ with D10, D30, and D60 = the particle-size diameters correspond-
sand” or “with gravel” (whichever is predominant) shall be ing to 10, 30, and 60 %, respectively, passing on the cumula-
added to the group name. For example, lean clay with sand, tive particle-size distribution curve, Fig. 5.
CL; silt with gravel, ML. If the percent of sand is equal to the NOTE 9—It may be necessary to extrapolate the curve to obtain the D10
percent of gravel, use “with sand.” diameter.
11.5 If 30 % or more of the test specimen is retained on the 12.3.1 If less than 5 % of the test specimen passes the No.
No. 200 (75-µm) sieve, the words “sandy” or“ gravelly” shall 200 (75-µm) sieve, classify the soil as a well-graded gravel,
be added to the group name. Add the word “sandy” if 30 % or GW, or well-graded sand, SW, if Cu is greater than or equal to
more of the test specimen is retained on the No. 200 (75-µm) 4.0 for gravel or greater than 6.0 for sand, and Cc is at least 1.0
sieve and the coarse-grained portion is predominantly sand. but not more than 3.0.
Add the word “gravelly” if 30 % or more of the test specimen 12.3.2 If less than 5 % of the test specimen passes the No.
is retained on the No. 200 (75-µm) sieve and the coarse-grained 200 (75-µm) sieve, classify the soil as poorly graded gravel,
portion is predominantly gravel. For example, sandy lean clay, GP, or poorly graded sand, SP, if either the Cu or the Cc
CL; gravelly fat clay, CH; sandy silt, ML. If the percent of sand criteria for well-graded soils are not satisfied.
is equal to the percent of gravel, use “sandy.” 12.4 If more than 12 % of the test specimen passes the No.
200 (75-µm) sieve, the soil shall be considered a coarse-
12. Procedure for Classification of Coarse-Grained Soils grained soil with fines. The fines are determined to be either
(more than 50 % retained on the No. 200 (75-µm) sieve) clayey or silty based on the plasticity index versus liquid limit
12.1 Class the soil as gravel if more than 50 % of the coarse plot on Fig. 4. (See 9.8.2.1 if insufficient material available for
fraction [plus No. 200 (75-µm) sieve] is retained on the No. 4 testing) (see Note 7).
(4.75-mm) sieve. 12.4.1 Classify the soil as a clayey gravel, GC, or clayey
12.2 Class the soil as sand if 50 % or more of the coarse sand, SC, if the fines are clayey, that is, the position of the
fraction [plus No. 200 (75-µm) sieve] passes the No. 4 plasticity index versus liquid limit plot, Fig. 4, falls on or above
(4.75-mm) sieve. the “A” line and the plasticity index is greater than 7.
12.3 If 12 % or less of the test specimen passes the No. 200 12.4.2 Classify the soil as a silty gravel, GM, or silty sand,
(75-µm) sieve, plot the cumulative particle-size distribution, SM, if the fines are silty, that is, the position of the plasticity
Fig. 5, and compute the coefficient of uniformity, Cu, and index versus liquid limit plot, Fig. 4, falls below the “A” line
coefficient of curvature, Cc, as given in Eqs 1 and 2. or the plasticity index is less than 4.

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 D2487 – 11

FIG. 3 Flow Chart for Classifying Coarse-Grained Soils (More Than 50 % Retained on No. 200 Sieve)

FIG. 4 Plasticity Chart

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 D2487 – 11

FIG. 5 Cumulative Particle-Size Plot

12.4.3 If the fines plot as a silty clay, CL-ML, classify the 13. Report
soil as a silty, clayey gravel, GC-GM, if it is a gravel or a silty, 13.1 The report should include the group name, group
clayey sand, SC-SM, if it is a sand. symbol, and the results of the laboratory tests. The particle-size
12.5 If 5 to 12 % of the test specimen passes the No. 200 distribution shall be given in terms of percent of gravel, sand,
(75-µm) sieve, give the soil a dual classification using two and fines. The plot of the cumulative particle-size distribution
group symbols. curve shall be reported if used in classifying the soil. Report
12.5.1 The first group symbol shall correspond to that for a appropriate descriptive information according to the proce-
gravel or sand having less than 5 % fines (GW, GP, SW, SP), dures in Practice D2488. A local or commercial name or
and the second symbol shall correspond to a gravel or sand geologic interpretation for the material may be added at the end
having more than 12 % fines (GC, GM, SC, SM). of the descriptive information if identified as such. The test
12.5.2 The group name shall correspond to the first group procedures used shall be referenced.
symbol plus “with clay” or “with silt” to indicate the plasticity NOTE 11—Example: Clayey Gravel with Sand and Cobbles (GC)—
characteristics of the fines. For example, well-graded gravel 46 % fine to coarse, hard, subrounded gravel; 30 % fine to coarse, hard,
with clay, GW-GC; poorly graded sand with silt, SP-SM (See subrounded sand; 24 % clayey fines, LL = 38, PI = 19; weak reaction with
9.8.2.1 if insufficient material available for testing). HCl; original field sample had 4 % hard, subrounded cobbles; maximum
dimension 150 mm.
NOTE 10—If the fines plot as a silty clay, CL-ML, the second group
symbol should be either GC or SC. For example, a poorly graded sand In-Place Conditions—firm, homogeneous, dry, brown,
with 10 % fines, a liquid limit of 20, and a plasticity index of 6 would be Geologic Interpretation—alluvial fan.
classified as a poorly graded sand with silty clay, SP-SC. NOTE 12—Other examples of soil descriptions are given in Appendix
12.6 If the specimen is predominantly sand or gravel but X1.
contains 15 % or more of the other coarse-grained constituent, 14. Precision and Bias
the words “with gravel” or “with sand” shall be added to the 14.1 Criteria for acceptability depends on the precision and
group name. For example, poorly graded gravel with sand, bias of Test Methods D422, D1140 and D4318.
clayey sand with gravel.
12.7 If the field sample contained any cobbles or boulders or 15. Keywords
both, the words “with cobbles,” or “with cobbles and boulders” 15.1 Atterberg limits; classification; clay; gradation; gravel;
shall be added to the group name. For example, silty gravel laboratory classification; organic soils; sand; silt; soil classifi-
with cobbles, GM. cation; soil tests

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 D2487 – 11

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. EXAMPLES OF DESCRIPTIONS USING SOIL CLASSIFICATION

X1.1 The following examples show how the information X1.1.3 Organic Clay (OL)—100 % fines, LL (not
required in 13.1 can be reported. The appropriate descriptive dried) = 32, LL (oven dried) = 21, PI (not dried) = 10; wet,
information from Practice D2488 is included for illustrative dark brown, organic odor, weak reaction with HCl.
purposes. The additional descriptive terms that would accom- X1.1.4 Silty Sand with Organic Fines (SM)—74 % fine to
pany the soil classification should be based on the intended use coarse, hard, subangular reddish sand; 26 % organic and silty
of the classification and the individual circumstances. dark-brown fines, LL (not dried) = 37, LL (oven dried) = 26, PI
X1.1.1 Well-Graded Gravel with Sand (GW)—73 % fine to (not dried) = 6, wet, weak reaction with HCl.
coarse, hard, subangular gravel; 23 % fine to coarse, hard, X1.1.5 Poorly Graded Gravel with Silt, Sand, Cobbles and
subangular sand; 4 % fines; Cc = 2.7, Cu = 12.4. Boulders (GP-GM)—78 % fine to coarse, hard, subrounded to
X1.1.2 Silty Sand with Gravel (SM)—61 % predominantly
subangular gravel; 16 % fine to coarse, hard, subrounded to
fine sand; 23 % silty fines, LL = 33, PI = 6; 16 % fine, hard,
subangular sand; 6 % silty (estimated) fines; moist, brown; no
subrounded gravel; no reaction with HCl; (field sample smaller
reaction with HCl; original field sample had 7 % hard, sub-
than recommended). In-Place Conditions—Firm, stratified and
contains lenses of silt 1 to 2 in. thick, moist, brown to gray; rounded cobbles and 2 % hard, subrounded boulders with a
in-place density = 106 lb/ft3 and in-place moisture = 9 %. maximum dimension of 18 in.

X2. USING SOIL CLASSIFICATION AS A DESCRIPTIVE SYSTEM FOR SHALE, CLAYSTONE, SHELLS, SLAG, CRUSHED
ROCK, ETC.

X2.1 The group names and symbols used in this standard After laboratory processing by slaking in water for 24 h,
may be used as a descriptive system applied to materials that material classified as “Sandy Lean Clay (CL)”—61 % clayey
exist in situ as shale, claystone, sandstone, siltstone, mudstone, fines, LL = 37, PI = 16; 33 % fine to medium sand; 6 %
etc., but convert to soils after field or laboratory processing gravel-size pieces of shale.
(crushing, slaking, etc.). X2.4.2 Crushed Sandstone—Product of commercial crush-
X2.2 Materials such as shells, crushed rock, slag, etc., ing operation; “Poorly Graded Sand with Silt (SP-SM)”—91 %
should be identified as such. However, the procedures used in fine to medium sand; 9 % silty (estimated) fines; dry, reddish-
this standard for describing the particle size and plasticity brown, strong reaction with HCl.
characteristics may be used in the description of the material. X2.4.3 Broken Shells—65 % gravel-size broken shells;
If desired, a classification in accordance with this standard may 31 % sand and sand-size shell pieces; 4 % fines; Cc = 2.4,
be assigned to aid in describing the material. Cu = 1.9; would be classified as “Poorly Graded Gravel with
Sand (GP)”.
X2.3 If a classification is used, the group symbol(s) and
group names should be placed in quotation marks or noted with X2.4.4 Crushed Rock—Processed gravel and cobbles from
some type of distinguishing symbol. See examples. Pit No. 7; “Poorly Graded Gravel (GP)”—89 % fine, hard,
angular gravel-size particles; 11 % coarse, hard, angular sand-
X2.4 Examples of how soil classifications could be size particles, dry, tan; no reaction with HCl; Cc = 2.4,
incorporated into a description system for materials Cu = 0.9.
that are not naturally occurring soils are as follows:
X2.4.1 Shale Chunks—Retrieved as 2- to 4-in. pieces of
shale from power auger hole, dry, brown, no reaction with HCl.

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 D2487 – 11

X3. PREPARATION AND TESTING FOR CLASSIFICATION PURPOSES BY THE WET METHOD

X3.1 This appendix describes the steps in preparing a soil X3.7 Determine the liquid limit and plasticity index as
sample for testing for purposes of soil classification using a follows:
wet-preparation procedure. X3.7.1 If the soil disaggregates readily, mix on a clean, hard
surface and select a representative sample by quartering in
X3.2 Samples prepared in accordance with this procedure accordance with Practice C702.
should contain as much of their natural water content as X3.7.1.1 If the soil contains coarse-grained particles coated
possible and every effort should be made during obtaining, with and bound together by tough clayey material, take
preparing, and transportating the samples to maintain the extreme care in obtaining a representative portion of the No. 40
natural moisture. (425-µm) fraction. Typically, a larger portion than normal has
to be selected, such as the minimum weights required in 7.2.
X3.3 The procedures to be followed in this standard assume X3.7.1.2 To obtain a representative specimen of a basically
that the field sample contains fines, sand, gravel, and plus 3-in. cohesive soil, it may be advantageous to pass the soil through
(75-mm) particles and the cumulative particle-size distribution a 3⁄4-in. (19-mm) sieve or other convenient size so the material
plus the liquid limit and plasticity index values are required can be more easily mixed and then quartered or split to obtain
(see 9.8). Some of the following steps may be omitted when the representative specimen.
they are not applicable to the soil being tested. X3.7.2 Process the representative specimen in accordance
with the Wet Preparation Method in Test Method D4318.
X3.4 If the soil contains plus No. 200 (75-µm) particles that X3.7.3 Perform the liquid-limit test in accordance with Test
would degrade during dry sieving, use a test procedure for Method D4318, except the soil shall not be air dried prior to the
determining the particle-size characteristics that prevents this test.
degradation. X3.7.4 Perform the plastic-limit test in accordance with Test
Method D4318, except the soil shall not be air dried prior to the
X3.5 Since this classification system is limited to the
test, and calculate the plasticity index.
portion of a sample passing the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve, the plus
3-in. (75-mm) material shall be removed prior to the determi- X3.8 Determine the particle-size distribution as follows:
nation of the particle-size characteristics and the liquid limit X3.8.1 If the water content of the fraction passing the 3-in.
and plasticity index. (75-mm) sieve was required (X3.6.3), use the water-content
specimen for determining the particle-size distribution. Other-
X3.6 The portion of the field sample finer than the 3-in. wise, select a representative specimen in accordance with
(75-mm) sieve shall be obtained as follows: Practice C702 with a minimum dry weight as required in 7.2.
X3.6.1 Separate the field sample into two fractions on a X3.8.2 If the cumulative particle-size distribution including
3-in. (75-mm) sieve, being careful to maintain the natural water a hydrometer analysis is required, determine the particle-size
content in the minus 3-in. (75-mm) fraction. Any particles distribution in accordance with Test Method D422. See 9.7 for
adhering to the plus 3-in. (75-mm) particles shall be brushed or the set of required sieves.
wiped off and placed in the fraction passing the 3-in. (75-mm) X3.8.3 If the cumulative particle-size distribution without a
sieve. hydrometer analysis is required, determine the particle-size
X3.6.2 Determine the air-dry or oven-dry weight of the distribution in accordance with Test Method C136. See 9.7 for
fraction retained on the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve. Determine the the set of required sieves. The specimen should be soaked until
total (wet) weight of the fraction passing the 3-in. (75-mm) all clayey aggregations have softened and then washed in
sieve. accordance with Test Method C117 prior to performing the
X3.6.3 Thoroughly mix the fraction passing the 3-in. (75- particle-size distribution.
mm) sieve. Determine the water content, in accordance with X3.8.4 If the cumulative particle-size distribution is not
Test Method D2216, of a representative specimen with a required, determine the percent fines, percent sand, and percent
minimum dry weight as required in 7.2. Save the water-content gravel in the specimen in accordance with Test Method C117,
specimen for determination of the particle-size analysis in being sure to soak the specimen long enough to soften all
accordance with X3.8. clayey aggregations, followed by Test Method C136 using a
X3.6.4 Compute the dry weight of the fraction passing the nest of sieves which shall include a No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve and
3-in. (75-mm) sieve based on the water content and total (wet) a No. 200 (75-µm) sieve.
weight. Compute the total dry weight of the sample and X3.8.5 Calculate the percent fines, percent sand, and per-
calculate the percentage of material retained on the 3-in. cent gravel in the minus 3-in. (75-mm) fraction for classifica-
(75-mm) sieve. tion purposes.

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 D2487 – 11

X4. AIR-DRIED METHOD OF PREPARATION OF SOILS FOR TESTING FOR CLASSIFICATION PURPOSES

X4.1 This appendix describes the steps in preparing a soil limit and plasticity index as follows (see 9.8 for when these
sample for testing for purposes of soil classification when tests are required):
air-drying the soil before testing is specified or desired or when X4.5.1 Thoroughly mix the fraction passing the 3-in. (75-
the natural moisture content is near that of an air-dried state. mm) sieve.
X4.2 If the soil contains organic matter or mineral colloids X4.5.2 If the cumulative particle-size distribution including
that are irreversibly affected by air drying, the wet-preparation a hydrometer analysis is required, determine the particle-size
method as described in Appendix X3 should be used. distribution in accordance with Test Method D422. See 9.7 for
the set of sieves that is required.
X4.3 Since this classification system is limited to the X4.5.3 If the cumulative particle-size distribution without a
portion of a sample passing the 3-in. (75-mm) sieve, the plus hydrometer analysis is required, determine the particle-size
3-in. (75-mm) material shall be removed prior to the determi- distribution in accordance with Test Method D1140 followed
nation of the particle-size characteristics and the liquid limit by Test Method C136. See 9.7 for the set of sieves that is
and plasticity index. required.
X4.4 The portion of the field sample finer than the 3-in. X4.5.4 If the cumulative particle-size distribution is not
(75-mm) sieve shall be obtained as follows: required, determine the percent fines, percent sand, and percent
gravel in the specimen in accordance with Test Method D1140
X4.4.1 Air dry and weigh the field sample.
followed by Test Method C136 using a nest of sieves which
X4.4.2 Separate the field sample into two fractions on a
shall include a No. 4 (4.75-mm) sieve and a No. 200 (75-µm)
3-in. (75-mm) sieve.
sieve.
X4.4.3 Weigh the two fractions and compute the percentage
of the plus 3-in. (75-mm) material in the field sample. X4.5.5 If required, determine the liquid limit and the plas-
ticity index of the test specimen in accordance with Test
X4.5 Determine the particle-size distribution and liquid Method D4318.

X5. ABBREVIATED SOIL CLASSIFICATION SYMBOLS

X5.1 In some cases, because of lack of space, an abbrevi- s = sandy s = with sand
ated system may be useful to indicate the soil classification g = gravelly g = with
gravel
symbol and name. Examples of such cases would be graphical c = cobbles
logs, databases, tables, etc. b = boulders

X5.2 This abbreviated system is not a substitute for the full

name and descriptive information but can be used in supple- X5.4 The soil classification symbol is to be enclosed in
mentary presentations when the complete description is refer- parentheses. Some examples would be:
enced.
Group Symbol and Full Name Abbreviated
X5.3 The abbreviated system should consist of the soil CL, Sandy lean clay s(CL)
classification symbol based on this standard with SP-Sm, Poorly graded sand with silt and gravel (SP-SM)g
appropriate lower case letter prefixes and suffixes GP, poorly graded gravel with sand, cobbles, and (GP)scb
boulders
as: ML, gravelly silt with sand and cobbles g(ML)sc
Prefix Suffix

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 D2487 – 11
SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee D18 has identified the location of selected changes to this practice since the last issue, D2487–10,
that may impact the use of this practice. (Approved May 1, 2011)

(1) Deleted reference to Practice D2217 in 11.3.2 and X3.7.2.

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