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Title: Draft BS EN 16907-2 Earthworks

Part 2: Classification of materials

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Introduction
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EUROPEAN STANDARD DRAFT
NORME EUROPÉENNE prEN 16907-2
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
August 2015

ICS 13.080.99; 93.020

English Version

Earthworks - Part 2: Classification of materials

Terrassements - Partie 2: Classification des matériaux Erdarbeiten - Teil 2: Materialklassifizierung

This draft European Standard is submitted to CEN members for enquiry. It has been drawn up by the Technical Committee CEN/TC 396.

If this draft becomes a European Standard, CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which
stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.

This draft European Standard was established by CEN in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language
made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and United
Kingdom.

Recipients of this draft are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are aware and to
provide supporting documentation.

Warning : This document is not a European Standard. It is distributed for review and comments. It is subject to change without notice and
shall not be referred to as a European Standard.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels

© 2015 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. prEN 16907-2:2015 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Contents Page

European foreword .............................................................................................................................................3

Introduction .........................................................................................................................................................4
1 Scope ......................................................................................................................................................5
2 Normative references ............................................................................................................................5
3 Terms, definitions, symbols and abbreviations .................................................................................5
3.1 Terms and definitions ...........................................................................................................................5
3.2 Symbols and abbreviations ..................................................................................................................6
4 Principles of classification ...................................................................................................................7
5 The process of description and classification ...................................................................................8
5.1 General ....................................................................................................................................................8
5.2 Description .............................................................................................................................................9
5.3 Classification..........................................................................................................................................9
6 Classification by intrinsic parameters .............................................................................................. 10
6.1 General ................................................................................................................................................. 10
6.2 Definition of soil groups .................................................................................................................... 10
6.3 Definition of Rock Groups ................................................................................................................. 16
6.4 Use of other intrinsic properties ....................................................................................................... 20
7 Classification by State Parameters ................................................................................................... 21
7.1 General ................................................................................................................................................. 21
7.2 Soil state properties ........................................................................................................................... 21
7.3 Rock state properties ......................................................................................................................... 22
8 Characteristics and tests for assessing earthworks materials in situ .......................................... 23
8.1 General ................................................................................................................................................. 23
8.2 Characteristics for execution of earthworks ................................................................................... 24
8.3 Characteristics for material classification for use in earth-structures ......................................... 25
8.4 Material families for execution of earthworks ................................................................................. 25
9 Sampling of soil and rock .................................................................................................................. 26
10 Test standards to support classification ......................................................................................... 26
Annex A (informative) List of test standards relevant to earthworks ....................................................... 27
Bibliography ..................................................................................................................................................... 36

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

European foreword

This document (prEN 16907-2:2015) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 396 “Earthworks”,
the secretariat of which is held by AFNOR.

This document is currently submitted to the CEN Enquiry.

This document is one of the European Standards within the framework series of EN 16907 on Earthworks, as
follows:

— Part 1: Principles and general rules,

— Part 2: Classification of materials (this document),

— Part 3: Construction procedures,

— Part 4: Soil treatment with lime and/or hydraulic binders,

— Part 5: Quality control,

— Part 6: Land reclamation with dredged hydraulic fill,

— Part 7: Hydraulic placement of mineral waste.

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prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Introduction

This European Standard is part of a European Standard on Earthworks. It was decided by CEN/TC 396 to
establish a stand-alone standard part on classification of materials used in earthworks.

The different regional situations in geology and climate lead to resultant national differences in the earthwork
procedures which do not allow a single classification of materials throughout Europe at present. Therefore,
this standard identifies the principles and systems for classification considering national practices.
Furthermore the test procedures suitable for earth works are identified.

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

1 Scope

This European Standard defines a common basis for description and classification for use by all parties
involved in the design, planning and construction of the earthworks.

This European Standard specifies the principles of classification, the processes and properties to be used in
the description and classification of earthworks materials. For that, it specifies soil and rock groups as basis of
material specifications for earth structure elements.

NOTE Informative examples of existing national experience based classification systems and their use are presented
in the annexes to prEN 16907-1.

2 Normative references

The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.

EN 932-1, Tests for general properties of aggregates — Part 1: Methods for sampling

EN 1997-2, Eurocode 7 — Geotechnical design — Part 2: Ground investigation and testing

EN 13383-1, Armourstone — Part 1: Specification

EN ISO 14688-1, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Identification and classification of soil — Part 1:
Identification and description (ISO 14688-1)

EN ISO 14689-1:2003, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Identification and classification of rock —
Part 1: Identification and description (ISO 14689-1:2003)

EN ISO 22475-1, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Sampling methods and groundwater
measurements — Part 1: Technical principles for execution (ISO 22475-1)

3 Terms, definitions, symbols and abbreviations

3.1 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.

3.1.1
classification
definition of classes and assignation of materials with similar properties for earthworks

3.1.2
classification parameters
values of characteristics that define classes

3.1.3
characteristics
material properties which may be relevant for a defined use

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prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

3.1.4
properties
physical and chemical attributes of a material

3.1.5
description
identification and naming of physical and soil mechanical properties of a given material that are relevant for
earthwork purposes

3.1.6
material groups
classes of material with defined limit values of classification parameters on basis of intrinsic properties

3.1.7
materials (see also prEN 16907-1)
all soils, rocks, recycled mineral materials and by-products used in earthworks

3.1.8
soil
assemblages of mineral particles and/or organic matter which can be separated by gentle mechanical means

3.1.9
rock
naturally occurring assemblages of minerals which may be consolidated, cemented or bonded together so as
to form a material mass generally to be broken down for earthwork purposes e.g. by crushing or blasting

3.1.10
intrinsic properties
properties of solids of soils and rock which do not change in the course of earthworks such as particle size
distribution, particle shape, mineralogy, plasticity, organic or carbonate content

3.1.11
state properties
properties of the soil or rock that may change during earthworks; such as density, water content, strength,
relative density or stiffness

3.1.12
particle size distribution
range of particle sizes present as described by the shape of the grading curve, and is sometimes referred to
as gradation or as granularity

3.1.13
made ground or man-made materials
materials manufactured by man, either by handling or processing of natural materials or by a manufacturing
process such as crushing or washing

3.2 Symbols and abbreviations

For the purposes of this document, the following symbols and abbreviations apply.

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Bo large boulder W Widely graded

Bo boulder N Narrowly graded
Co cobble L Low plasticity
Gr, gr Gravel, gravelly M Medium plasticity
Sa, sa Sand, sandy H High plasticity
Si Silt VH Very high plasticity
Cl Clay O organic soil
IS Intermediate Soil
C Composite Soil
PE peat

4 Principles of classification

Classification shall ensure that soils, rocks and other materials are placed into classes which have similar
behaviour for one or more earthworks procedures (excavation, transport, treatment, placement and
compaction) and which will have similar engineering properties in an earth structure after application of
defined earthwork procedures.

The system of classes or „classification system” shall be defined on the basis of experience from previous
works and is influenced by the geological and climatic conditions prevailing in each country as appropriate.

The classification system may represent national practices, local practice based on experience in particular
materials or project based. It may be partial and limited to materials for which previous experience exists.
Variations between countries are allowed to account for national experiences. The national regulations
mentioned in the annexes to prEN 16907-1 may be used where appropriate and as far as the normative
requirements of this standard are not contradicted.

When a new classification system is prepared or an existing system is used, experience shall refer to:

— the satisfactory behaviour of completed earth-structures, made of a class of material, using specific
construction procedures,

— the suitability of particular construction procedures for a given class of material.

The engineering behaviour of the completed earth-structure shall be assessed according to the type of
structure which can include:

— cuts in soils or rocks,

— embankments for infrastructure or buildings,

— reclaimed land, or

— liners.

The mineralogy and particle size distribution of soils and the origin, fragmentability and degradability of rocks
are important properties from the point of view of engineering behaviour. The sensitivity of fine grained soils to
water has a major effect on the execution of works and the moisture condition of fine soils shall be considered,
when relevant, in the classification system.

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prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Since earthworks need large volumes of materials, the classification of samples is not sufficient to
characterise a given source of natural materials: the description of the ground mass is part of the information
needed for identifying zones of homogenous character and thus in the design of earthworks.

5 The process of description and classification

5.1 General

The ground shall be described and classified into materials of similar material properties and homogenous
areas, a process which is typically supported by testing. This should involve three stages as given in Table 1:

1) The soil and rock materials should be described in their in situ condition or as excavated;

2) Classification into groups of similar material properties and homogenous areas based on the intrinsic
properties shall be made as part of the design and planning process. Classification of the materials will
generally require a full suite of testing; and

3) Classification shall also be made in the planning and construction stages, on the basis of the state
properties. Classification by state properties should be used to plan, specify and control the works and to
demonstrate that the product required by the design and the specification has been achieved.

Table 1 — The stages of description and classification

Stage Definition Basis Application

Grouping into areas of
Engineering geological description similar characteristics;
of the soil and rock to record those determine layers,
features of the ground that will Observation in the field and areas or zones of
control the ease of excavation and laboratory. similar properties or
Description influence the use of the material homogenous
but that may be destroyed in Describe material and mass character. Stratum
sampling or earthwork procedures characteristics. descriptions aid the
such as layering, variability and scheduling of testing
discontinuities. which leads to
classification.
Classification to
Classification based on the intrinsic determine material
properties, those which are not Select appropriate tests in applicability in different
Classification
changed by the effects of sampling order to determine properties zones of the proposed
(intrinsic)
or the earthwork procedures such as grain size, plasticity earthwork. Available
see Table 3
Assignment of soil and rock and mineralogy tests can be selected
materials to soil and rock groups from those listed in
Annex A.
Classification to
Select appropriate tests to determine classes
determine properties such as depending on
Characterisation on the basis of the engineering properties
water content, strength,
state of the ground, that is by those at excavation,
Classification stiffness and stability. The
properties that can change by transport, deposition
(state) properties to be measured
sampling or the earthwork and compaction.
will depend on the particle
procedures
size of the soil and the Available tests can be
strength of the particles selected from those
listed in Annex A.

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

NOTE 1 The details given in the Column „application” need to be taken as examples only. Depending on project
conditions other application fields for the different classification levels may be considered.

For the use of recycled mineral materials and by-products in earthworks, the approaches in Table 1 may also
be applicable. Where the material is not natural its mineralogy, properties and origin shall be stated.

NOTE 2 The use of such materials may be covered by other European Standards.

5.2 Description

The soils or rocks present at the site should first be described before classification is made as identified in
Table 1 and is the systematic recording of the material and mass characteristics of a soil or rock.

Descriptive units or strata are usually related to the geological succession, which may be subdivided
depending on the variability. Geological input should be incorporated so as to ensure a full and accurate
description.

The soils and rocks that may be used in the earthwork shall be described in accordance with EN ISO 14688-1
and EN ISO 14689-1 on the basis of visual and manual techniques in the field including in trial pits and in
samples recovered from boreholes and/or in the laboratory. Description places soil into size fractions based
on particle size.

The size fractions defined in EN ISO 14688-1 shall be used, which are

— Very coarse soils (boulders and cobbles);

— Coarse soils (gravel and sand);

— Fine soils (silt and clay).

The description enables the in situ condition of the ground, including its ease of excavation and variability, to
be assessed. Laboratory testing is not normally required within description. The mass properties include
fracture spacing and weathering and are generally not amenable to testing.

The description should identify any aspects of the soil or rock that may be relevant to the excavation,
transport, deposition and compaction of the material and its inclusion in the earthwork. Aspects of the in situ
soil or rock that could be of interest should include strength, structure such as layering, or the spacing of
discontinuities that may affect the ease of excavation. The availability of a description of the materials also
allows interpolation between test results in those areas or materials where field or laboratory testing has not
been carried out.

The descriptions enable the identification of zones of homogenous character and the scheduling of
appropriate field or laboratory tests for classification.

Descriptions should normally appear on the field reports of the investigation points (for example trial pits,
boreholes); the disposition of the materials across the site should normally be displayed as plans and sections
as appropriate The requirements of field and investigation reports are detailed in EN ISO 22475-1 and
EN 1997-2.

5.3 Classification

Where relevant the classification process in Table 1 shall be followed together with the reference to Tables 3
and 4 which summarise the typical classification system of materials available for the earthworks project.

NOTE The approach to classification set out in EN ISO 14688-2 is applicable to earthworks but only as an
introduction. The range and scope of classification for earthworks given here is more detailed than encompassed in that
standard.

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prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Classification at a site should initially use an existing classification system (e.g. that is used nationally or by
individual clients) which allows a project to link into precedent experience. The classification systems adopted
for the project may be amended as more information on the ground conditions at a site becomes available.

The grouping of soils or rocks based on their intrinsic properties can be used as a basis for client
specifications as to the requirements of the materials to be used in the earth structures. In combination with
the state properties, this can also then help to identify appropriate earthworks construction procedures which
should enable the establishment of project orientated classes. The definition of these classes should be
supported by field testing.

6 Classification by intrinsic parameters

6.1 General

All materials that are used for earthworks shall be classified into material groups on the basis of parameters of
intrinsic properties that are the parameters that do not change.

NOTE 1 The earthworks classification process into groups will help the engineer identify which materials are suitable or
potentially suitable for use in an earth structure, subject to acceptable intrinsic properties and meeting the design
objectives as defined in prEN 16907-1.

NOTE 2 Classification on basis of intrinsic properties does not necessarily demonstrate suitability for re-use as earth fill
as that depends on state properties and the achievement of satisfactory compaction.

6.2 Definition of soil groups

A soil classification with groups based on parameters of intrinsic properties is given in Tables 3a to 3e. The
excavated soil shall be classified for use in earthworks either by using a well-established national system or by
using Tables 3a to 3e.

NOTE 1 Alternatively national classifications may be used as described in prEN 16907-1.

The parameters of intrinsic properties of soil used in classification should include at least:

— Particle size distribution;

— Plasticity (liquid limit and plasticity index which can be plotted on a plasticity chart or Methylene Blue
value);

— Organic Content.

The evaluation of parameters should be supported by laboratory examination and testing.

NOTE 2 The shape of the grading curve is a useful property for classification but the approaches and limiting values
vary widely in different countries.

NOTE 3 The Methylene Blue test is an alternative method for measurement of low and medium plasticity. No suitable
European Standard is available. NF P 94-068 method according to French standard is recommended.

Soil classification/grouping according to Table 3 may be applied for natural materials. For made ground such
as excavated natural, crushed or some manufactured materials the origin of the soil shall be stated and further
intrinsic characteristics have to be considered for assignment to soil groups of Tables 3a to 3e.

For soils containing salts, the classification can be made according to Table 4d.

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Table 3 — Soil groups for earthworks based on intrinsic soil parameters

Table 3a — Very coarse soils

Uniformity
Main Group Group name Particle size fractions, mm coefficient Cu Soil group symbol Comments

– –

≤ 63 > 63–200 > 200–630 > 630

large boulders less than large The behaviour in fill is

LBo1
> 630 mm boulders controlled by the fraction
> 63 mm.
less
Very coarse boulders less than than Fraction < 63 mm can be
≤ 30 % n/a Bo1
soil group 1 200 to 630 mm boulders boulder classified as an additional
s parameter if relevant

cobbles Size of blocks shall be Normally soil

63 to 200 mm
less than cobbles Co1 considered for excavation has to be
processed
large boulders less than large before using
LBo2 The behaviour in fill is in earth
> 630 mm boulders
controlled by the fraction structures
less ≤ 63 mm
Very coarse boulders less than than
≤ 70 % n/a Bo2 Fraction ≤ 63 mm shall be
soil group 2 200 to 630 mm boulders boulder
classified.
s
Size of blocks shall be
cobbles considered for excavation
less than cobbles Co2
63 to 200 mm

NOTE The fractions of large boulders, boulders and cobbles may be determined by visual volumetric assessment.

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Table 3b — Coarse soils (< 5 % fines)

Main Uniformity coefficient

Group name Particle size fractions, mm Cu Soil group symbol Comments
Group

≤ 0,063
> 0,063–2 >2 > 63
(fines)
Gravel
less than more than ≥6 GrW
widely graded
material material
Gravel > 2 mm > 0,063–2 mm <6 GrN
Coarse narrowly graded Normally soil is usable in
<5% ≤ 30 %
soil Sand earth structure
less than ≥6 SaW
widely graded more than
material
material
Sand > 0,063 to
> 2 mm <6 SaN
narrowly graded 2 mm

Table 3c — Composite soils (5 % to 15 % fines)

Uniformity Soil group

Main Group Group Name Particle size fractions, mm coefficient, Cu Comments
symbol

≤ 0,063
> 0,063–2 >2 > 63
(fines)

Gravel-Fines- less than more than material ≥6 CGrW

Mixture material > 2 mm > 0,063–2 mm <6 CGrN Normally soil is
Composite
5 % to ≤ 15 % ≤ 20 % usable in earth
coarse soil more than ≥6 CSaW
Sand-Fines- less than material structure
material
Mixture > 0,063 to 2 mm <6 CSaN
> 2 mm

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Table 3d — Intermediate and Fine soils (more than 15 % fines)

Particle size fraction of Further Grouping Parameters

Main Group Group Name Soil group symbol Comments
fines, mm (intrinsic properties)
Liquid limit, Methylene
≤ 0,063 Plasticity Index, Ip
Wl Blue Value
Intermediate
soil – low ≤ 12 % ≤ 2,5 ISL
Intermediate plasticity
15 % to ≤ 35 % < 35 %
soil Intermediate
Normally soil is usable in
soil — medium >12 % > 2,5 ISH
earth structure
to high plasticity
Distinction between Silt and
Low plasticity Clay in fine soils is made on
< 35 % ≤ 12 % ≤ 2,5 SiL, ClL
fines the basis of the A line (see
medium Figure 1)
35–≤ 50 % > 12 %–22 % > 2,5 SiM, ClM
plasticity fines

High plasticity
Fine soil > 35 % 50–≤ 70 % 22 – 40 % >6 ClH
fines
Very high These should be presumed
> 70 % > 40 % n/a ClV
plasticity fines to be not usable unless
Above A-Line in testing, local experience, or
Extremely high treatment demonstrate
> 70 % Plasticity Chart n/a ClE
plasticity fines otherwise
(Figure 1)
NOTE Fine soils may be classified using Liquid limit or Plasticity Index or Methylene Blue Value or some combination thereof. A common basis of such a classification is the
Plasticity Chart, see Figure 1.

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Table 3e — Organic soil groups

Further Grouping Parameters Soil group Comments

Main Group Group Name Particle size fractions, mm
(intrinsic properties) symbol

≤ 0,063 Liquid Plasticity Methylene Blue

> 0,063–2 > 2– 63 > 63
(fines) limit, Wl Index, Ip Value
Low organic 65 % to
≤ 35 % n/a LOSa
Low organic sand 100 %
soil
Low organic
(2 %–6 % > 35 % < 65 % < 35 % < 12 ≤ 2,5 LOSi
silt
organic content,
see notes) Low organic Normally only used as
> 50 % 35-50 % 12-22 > 2,5 LOCl structural fill with organic
clay
contents up to about 6 %,
Medium although national practices
65 % to
organic ≤ 35 % < 10 % n/a MOSa in testing methods and
Medium 100 %
sand specifications vary
organic soil
(6 %–20 % Medium
> 35 % < 65 % < 35 % < 12 MOSi
organic content, organic silt n/a
see notes)
Medium
> 50 % 35-50 % 12-22 MOCl
organic clay
normally not used in
Organic soil Peat n/a PE
earthworks
NOTE 1 These organic contents are based on using a loss of ignition test method. Other test methods, such as, addition to sodium hydroxide or titration or oxidation with KMnO4
will give different values.
NOTE 2 There is no European Standard for determination of the organic content, therefore national test methods need to be used.

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Table 3f — Fill or Made Ground

Further Grouping Parameters Soil group

Main Group Group Name Grain size, mm Comments
(intrinsic properties) symbol
made ground of natural materials
FN Classification of materials is similar to
Fill or Made
all grain sizes that given in Table 3a – 3e
ground
made ground of manufactured
FA
materials

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prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Soils may be classified using consistency limits and approaches in earthworks include liquid limit and plasticity
index. These parameters can be plotted on a Plasticity Chart (Figure 1) but the shape of the different classes
on this chart can vary nationally.

Figure 1 — Plasticity Chart for Subdivision of Fine Soils

6.3 Definition of Rock Groups

The classification of the rock material rocks should be based on parameters of intrinsic properties of strength
as given in Table 4a.

NOTE For earthwork purposes rock mass properties are defined by state properties (see 7.3).

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Table 4a — Rock material groups (Strength)

Rock group Point Load

Index Is50
Compressive
Assuming strength σu
Rock group (Is50 = Rock examples
Strength term
symbol σu/25) MPa

MPa

extremely weak weathered claystone, siltstone,

REW 0,6–1
rock sandstone
weathered claystone, siltstone,
RVW very weak rock less than 0,2 1–5
sandstone, gypsum — stone, coal
claystone, siltstone, sandstone,
RW weak rock 0,2 to 1,0 5 to 25
marlstone, schists, gypsum-stone, coal
medium strong sandstone, marlstone, limestone,
RMS 1,0 to 2,0 25 to 50
rock schists, metamorphic rock
sandstone, limestone, volcanic rock,
RS strong rock 2,0 to 4,0 50 to 100
plutonic rock, metamorphic rock
very strong volcanic rock, plutonic rock,
RVS 4,0–10,0 100–250
rock metamorphic rock
Extremely
RES > 10,0 > 250
strong rock
NOTE 1 RVW and RW materials may be degradable and testing may be necessary to confirm the material stability.
NOTE 2 Alternative material specific correlation of Is50 with σu may be used when available.

NOTE Other intrinsic properties of rock used in classification may include mineralogy and density.

The classification of rock for excavation can use one or more of these properties, which may or may not be
independent; for example, a rock could be classified RW, XC, V2 or RS, C, V3

Once rock has been excavated, it will behave as a soil, generally a coarse or very coarse soil but with varying
amounts of fines. The coarse particles and the fines may each be strong and abrasive or weak and
degradable. The classification of rock for use in earthworks is given in Table 4b.

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Table 4b — Rock groups for reuse

Parameters (Intrinsic properties)

Indicative Geological Los Angeles Micro deval
Compressive Fragmentability Degradability Density Symbol Behaviour Comments
strength nature Index index
strength, MPa
FR DG LA MDE Yd
Clay rocks >7 CRw
Limestone > 45 < 1,8 LIw
Sandstone >7 SAw usable in
as a soil after
Weaker <5 earth
Conglomerate >7 COw extraction
structure
Igneous rocks >7 IRw
Metamorphic rocks >7 MRw

>5 evolutive or depending on

Clay Rocks >7 CRid
>2 degradable rock the design
non evolutive or
<5
Clay Rocks <7 CRind non-degradable
<2
rock

Intermediate Limestone 5-50 > 45 > 1,8 LIi

usable in
Sandstone <7 > 45 > 45 SAi earth
depending on the structure
Conglomerate <7 > 45 > 45 COi earth work
procedure
Igneous rocks <7 > 45 > 45 IRi
Metamorphic rocks <7 > 45 > 45 MRi

>5 evolutive or depending on

Clay Rocks <7 < 45 CRSd
>2 degradable rock the design
non evolutive or
<5
Strong Clay Rocks 50 — 100 <7 < 45 CRSnd non-degradable usable in
<2
rock earth
>5 structure
Limestone <7 < 45 no limit LIS as a granular soil
>2

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Parameters (Intrinsic properties)

Indicative Geological Los Angeles Micro deval
Compressive Fragmentability Degradability Density Symbol Behaviour Comments
strength nature Index index
strength, MPa
FR DG LA MDE Yd
<5
Sandstone <7 < 45 < 45 SAS
<2
Conglomerate < 45 < 45 COS
Igneous rocks < 45 < 45 IRS
Metamorphic rocks < 45 < 45 MRS
Very strong Igneous and 100–250 < 35 < 25 IRVS,
metamorphic rocks MRVS

Extremely Igneous and > 250 < 25 < 10 IRES,

strong metamorphic rocks MRES

NOTE The values for FR and DG will vary depending on the test procedure adopted. In Table 4b: parameters for FR according to French standard NF P 94-06; parameters for DG
according to French standard NF P 94-067 (first value) and Spanish standard UNE 146510 (second value).

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prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Material specific classifications may be appropriate for other less commonly encountered rock types.
Examples for classification of chalk and soluble (salt) rocks are given below for information.

Chalk may be classified on the basis of intact dry density (IDD) as follows (CIRIA C574, 2002).

Table 4c — Chalk groups

Term IDD (kN/m3)

Very High > 19,5
High 17 < IDD < 19,5
Medium 15,5 < IDD < 17
Low < 15,5
Salt rocks contain soluble minerals that may be dissolved at a rate that may cause relevant effects within the
life time of the earthwork. If required, rock of this type may be classified as given in Table 4d.

Table 4d — Salt rock groups

Content of salt
Range of solubility of salt
mineral (in mass Conditions for use in earthworks
mineral (examples)
percentage)
Low
(calcite CaCO3, s = 0,01 g/l Any No special conditions due to solubility.
for T = 20 °C)
May be used in any area of the earth fill. No special
Less than 0,2 %
conditions due to solubility.
May be used in the core of the earth fill. No special
0,2 to 2 % precautions are needed when constructing the crown
and haunches.
Limited use in the core of the earth fill provided that:
Medium
(gypsum CaSO4 ⋅ 2H2O, — The core shall constitute a compact and
s = 2,40 g/l for impermeable mass.
2 % to 20 %
T = 20 °C) — There are drainage measures and waterproofing
to prevent access of surface water and
groundwater into the fill.
Generally shall not be used. Its use shall be limited to
those cases in which no other soil is available and
More than 20 %
provided that this is specified and duly justified in the
design
May be used in any area of the earth fill. No special
Less than 0,2 %
conditions due to solubility.
High
May be used in the core of the earth fill. Special
(Halite NaCl, s = 360 g/l for
Less than 1 % precautions shall need to be taken when constructing
T = 20 °C)
the crown and haunches.
More than 1 % Not to be used.

6.4 Use of other intrinsic properties

There are also a number of other intrinsic properties that may be used to define the suitability of materials for
use, but these are not used in the fundamental classification described above. These can include:

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

— Mineralogy of grains, including the type of clay minerals present as well as the lithology of grains;

— Particle shape;

— Particle density;

— Optimum moisture or water content (OMC);

— Maximum Dry density (MDD);

— Grain or particle strength;

— Particle degradability or mechanical soundness including grain hardness (no relevant destruction during
earthwork procedures);

— Ease of weathering or evolutivity (including freeze thaw, shrinkage and water absorption) and particle
durability;

— Frost heave potential;

— Chemical soundness and durability;

— Ash content.

NOTE The values of OMC and MDD can be taken as intrinsic properties of the soil for a particular compactive effort
applied during the compaction tests; if a different compactive effort is applied then different values will be obtained.

The testing requirements for classification of the nature of soil are given in Annex A; this includes excavated
rock.

7 Classification by State Parameters

7.1 General

Classification should consider the purpose of the earthworks (e.g. road or rail embankment, dam, backfill) and
the position of the material within the earthwork (general fill, capping layer, drainage layer) and will normally
include requirements on the strength and stiffness of the fill and thus some guidance on the requirements of
the compaction processes to be adopted.

The designer of the earth structure should define which state parameters are to be assessed for the project
(prEN 16907-1). The characterisation of the materials can vary according to the stages of the process
(excavation, mixing, transport, deposition, compaction). Further details on the range of tests to carry out for
classification of material state are given in Clause 8.

7.2 Soil state properties

The classification of soils for use in earthworks shall be based on parameters of the following state properties
as appropriate:

— Water content (w);

— Undrained strength;

— Drained strength;

— Compressive (unconfined) strength;

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prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

— Tensile strength;

— Stiffness/ Young’s modulus;

— Swelling potential;

— Collapse potential (inundation);

— Density or degree of compaction;

— Immediate bearing index (IPI);

— CBR (CBR) and CBR soaked (CBRi);

— Moisture Condition Value (MCV);

— Hydraulic conductivity;

— Seismic velocity;

— Frost resistance;

— Resistivity;

— Redox potential;

— Microbial activity index.

7.3 Rock state properties

The classification of rock shall be made as appropriate for the in situ state of the rock, and separately for the
rock material and rock mass characteristics after excavation.

The assessment of the ease of excavation may be based on a combination of intrinsic properties (rock
strength) and rock mass properties according to Table 4a together with table (fracture spacing or seismic
refraction P-waves velocity)” as given in Table 5.

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Table 5 — Rock classes for excavation

Fracture spacing
Material P wave
from Table 9 of Rock examples
Strength Seismic velocity
EN ISO 14689-1:2003
Length Width Rock
Rock class Rock class
Height in m/s class
symbol symbol
mm symbol
weathered claystone,
REW
siltstone, sandstone
weathered claystone,
less than 20
RVW XC < 1 000 V1 siltstone, sandstone,
Extremely close
gypsum — stone, coal
claystone, siltstone,
20 to 60 sandstone, marlstone,
RW VC 1 000 to 2 000 V2
Very close schists, gypsum-stone,
coal
sandstone, marlstone,
60–200
RMS C 2 000 to 3 000 V3 limestone, schists,
Close
metamorphic rock
sandstone, limestone,
200 to 600
RS M 3 000 to 4 000 V4 volcanic rock, plutonic
Medium
rock, metamorphic rock
600–2 000 volcanic rock, plutonic
RVS W > 4 000 V5
Wide rock, metamorphic rock
RES
NOTE 1 Ease of excavation can be assessed from the strength and fracture spacing and/or the seismic velocity.
NOTE 2 The fracture spacing can indicate the maximum size of blocks or particles for transport and placement of the
excavated material.

NOTE 1 The state of the rock after excavation and processing (including crushing or other treatment) will mean that the
product may be treated as a coarse or very coarse soil in classification; the finer size fractions may be separately
classified.

NOTE 2 Excavated or crushed rock may be very angular compared to very coarse transported particles.

The classification of rock for excavation can use one or more of these properties, which may or may not be
independent; for example, a rock could be classified RW, XC, V2 or RS, C, V3

Example rock classifications are also available in EN 13383-1.

8 Characteristics and tests for assessing earthworks materials in situ

8.1 General

Earthworks materials may be tested and classified following different strategies:

— appropriate tests may be used to check that materials are acceptable for typical earthworks activities,
such as excavation, placement, compaction, transport (Table 6);

— appropriate tests may allow to group materials for use in specific parts of the earth-structure, such as
general fill, capping layer, drainage layer (Table 7).

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prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

In both cases, the limiting values adopted when compiling a classification for soil or rock as fill should be
selected as the most appropriate for the project and the materials to be worked with, and should maximise the
potential to win suitable fill from the site.

8.2 Characteristics for execution of earthworks

Existing, experience-based classification systems should be considered as a guide for both strategies cited
above and detailed in 8.1 and 8.2 respectively.

The execution of earthworks (prEN 16907-3) shall be adapted to the nature and state of the materials.
Detailed rules are given for the main families of materials. Characteristics for execution of earthworks.

For construction of an earth structure the main procedures given in Table 6 should be considered referring to
the earthwork materials where examples of the parameters that might be used to measure the appropriate
properties are given. National practice should identify which of these properties, or other properties, are to be
determined by tests (see Clause 10 below).

Table 6 — Characteristics for execution of earthworks

Earthwork procedure Examples of characteristics for soils Examples of characteristics for rock
Rock group, rock type, Compressive
Excavation (relevant to Soil group, particle size distribution,
Strength, Rock Quality Designation,
rock only) undrained strength
Rock Mass Rating, seismic velocity
Soil group, particle size distribution,
Rock group, block size after
Load and transport water content, density, undrained
excavation, density
strength
Soil group, water content, plasticity,
Traffic on site roads undrained strength, CBR, bearing As for soil, shape of blocks
capacity, moisture condition
Soil group, frost susceptibility,
Particle or material
erodability, solubility, weathering, Rock group, (for argillaceous rocks or
stability (of placed or
evolutivity, mechanical soundness, similar see WG3)
stored materials)
chemical soundness
Soil group, particle size distribution,
Stabilisation (ease of
water content, plasticity, chemical As for soil
mixing)
constituents
Soil group, particle size distribution,
Placement water content, plasticity, undrained As for soil
strength
Soil group, particle size distribution,
Compaction water content, plasticity, Proctor density, As for soil
CBR, undrained strength
Soil group, particle size distribution,
water content, plasticity, chemical
Treatment with binders constituents, Proctor density, CBR, —
undrained strength, hydraulic
conductivity, deleterious materials
NOTE Mechanical soundness includes swelling and collapse properties.

For excavation, mixing, transport, placement and compaction, a range of material tests may have to be
considered. This will start with the description (see 5.1) but can also include testing for the intrinsic properties
and some aspects of state of the soil or rock. The description will provide useful information on the
excavatibility (ease of excavation), but the recovered condition of the soil or rock can also be important. For
instance the strength and the discontinuity spacing of the soil or rock will determine the ease of excavation

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

and the particle size grading of the excavated product; this may further change during transport, placement,
treatment and compaction.

8.3 Characteristics for material classification for use in earth-structures

This classification system is aimed at characterising materials suited for use in the different parts of an
earth-structure. It consists in classifying materials on the basis of characteristics given in Table 7. The
classification may be used for design, planning and construction.

NOTE The classification is used separately by the parties concerned with design (the Engineer), planning (the Client)
and construction (the earthworks contractor); their separate requirements are not distinguished in this classification
system.

Table 7 — Characteristics for use in earth-structures

Position in earth structure Examples of characteristics

soil group, particle size distribution, water content, plasticity,, Proctor
General fill (and embankment density, CBR, undrained strength, bearing capacity, moisture condition,
core) chemical constituents, organic content, swelling and collapse potential,
mechanical soundness, chemical soundness
soil group, particle size distribution, water content, plasticity, drained
Starter layer strength, stiffness, CBR, moisture condition, Proctor density, chemical
constituents, deleterious materials, material durability
soil group, particle size distribution, water content, plasticity, frost
Capping layer susceptibility, undrained strength, Proctor density, CBR, chemical
constituents, organic content, deleterious materials, frost heave potential
Upper layer beneath capping soil group, particle size distribution, water content, plasticity, strength,
(sub-grade) stiffness, CBR, chemical constituents
soil group, particle size distribution, water content, plasticity, strength,
Outside slopes (shoulders)
stiffness, Proctor density, CBR, chemical constituents, deleterious materials
soil group, particle size distribution, strength, hydraulic conductivity,
Drainage layer
deleterious materials, material durability
soil group, particle size distribution, water content, plasticity, Proctor
Fill behind structures density, CBR, undrained strength, hydraulic conductivity, chemical
constituents, deleterious materials, material durability
soil group, particle size distribution, water content, plasticity, Proctor
Reinforced earth density, CBR, undrained strength, hydraulic conductivity, chemical
constituents, deleterious materials
soil group, particle size distribution, water content, plasticity, undrained
Liner
strength, Proctor density, hydraulic conductivity
NOTE 1 Mechanical soundness includes swelling and collapse properties.
NOTE 2 The behaviour of rocks once excavated from the ground and incorporated into the earthwork process are
normally characterised as soils.

8.4 Material families for execution of earthworks

The specifications, techniques and recommended practices related to the execution of earthworks are closely
related to the nature and state of the materials. The working processes are usually associated to families of
materials, which are defined in prEN 16907-3.

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prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

9 Sampling of soil and rock

The requirements for sampling for geotechnical purposes are set out in EN ISO 22475-1. Additional
considerations in the sampling of coarser particles shall be taken from EN 932-1 for aggregates and
EN 13383-1 for armourstone.

10 Test standards to support classification

The classification procedures set out in this standard require test results to enable the various materials
available on a project to be placed in the relevant classes. Standards are available for some, but not all, of the
tests identified as being required. The available European Standards are listed in Annex A and shall be used
wherever possible. It should be noted that some of these standards are still under preparation and so any
project should seek to use the most up to date and available European Standards.

When a European Standard is not available for a particular test, the relevant national standard published by a
European country may be used.

Most rock tests are not covered by European Standards. The most commonly used test procedures are those
published by the ISRM and these should be used wherever available; these are included in Annex A.

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Annex A
(informative)

List of test standards relevant to earthworks

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prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

Sampling and Specimen Preparation

No Parameter EN Other Remarks

1 Sampling EN ISO 22475-1 Geotechnical Investigation and testing ISO 10381 Parts 1, 2 and 8 Soil Suitable for sampling of soils and rocks
– Sampling methods and groundwater measurements Quality – Sampling - Guidance
Suitable for sampling of armourstones
– Part 1: Technical principles for execution on the design of sampling
programmes/ techniques/ Suitable for sampling of aggregates
EN 13383-1 Armourstone – Part 1: Specification
stockpiles respectively
EN 932-1 Tests for general properties of aggregates – Suitable for soils but sample reduction
Part 1: Methods for sampling should be by manual rather than
mechanical means in soils with fine
constituents.
2 Specimen EN ISO 17892 (all parts) Geotechnical investigation Suitable for preparation of soil
preparation and testing – Laboratory testing of soils specimens
EN 1997-2 Eurocode 7 - Geotechnical Design - Part 2: Suitable for preparation of soil and rock
Ground Investigation and testing specimens
EN 932-2 Tests for general properties of aggregates – Suitable for preparation of aggregate
Part 2: Methods for reducing laboratory samples samples

Intrinsic Parameters for defining Soil Groups

3 Particle size prEN ISO 17892-4 Geotechnical investigation and ISO 11277 Soil quality - Suitable for soils
distribution testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 4: Determination of particle size
Determination of particle size distribution distribution in mineral soil Follows usual geotechnical practice but
conflicts with EN 1997 (all parts)
material -- Method by sieving and
sedimentation
4 Shape of grading EN ISO 14688-2 Geotechnical Investigation and testing Classification of soils based on particle
curve – Identification and classification of soil – Part 2: size analysis, rarely used in earthworks
Principles for a classification

5 Plasticity limits, CEN ISO/TS 17892-12 Geotechnical investigation and Suitable for soils
Consistency limits testing – Laboratory testing of soils – Part 12:
Determination of Atterberg Limits
6 Methylene blue value EN 933-9 Tests for geometrical properties of Suitable for aggregates; but the size
aggregates. Assessment of fine – Part 9: Methylene fraction used in the test varies
blue test depending on the material being tested

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

For soils, French standard NF P94-068

is adopted preferably.
7 Organic content EN 1744-1 Tests for chemical properties of aggregates ISO 10694 Soil quality - Unsuitable due to high oven
–Part 1: Chemical analysis Determination of organic and temperatures – national standards vary
total carbon after dry combustion
(elementary analysis) Methods given are combustion or acid
dissolution which are not common in
ISO 14235 Soil quality - geotechnical laboratories
Determination of organic carbon
Method given is not commonly used in
by sulfochromatic oxidation
geotechnical laboratories but available
Intrinsic Parameters for defining Rock groups

8 Compressive EN 1926 Natural stone test methods - Determination of ISRM Suggested Method point Suitable for rocks
strength (rock) uniaxial compressive strength load, uniaxial and triaxial
Suitable for rock materials
methods

9 Particle Density EN 1097-6 Tests for mechanical and physical Suitable for coarse soils and
properties of aggregates – Part 6: Determination of aggregates
particle density and water absorption

10 Micro deval index EN 1097-1 Tests for mechanical and physical Suitable for coarse soils and
properties of aggregates – Part 1: Determination of the aggregates
resistance to wear (Micro Deval)
11 Fragmentabiliy or EN 1097-2 Tests for mechanical and physical Suitable for coarse soils and
degradability properties of aggregates - Part 2: Methods for the aggregates
determination of resistance to fragmentation

12 Solubility No European Standard but there are

national standards
Other intrinsic Parameters

13 Particle Density prEN ISO 17892-3 Geotechnical investigation and EN ISO 11508 Soil quality - Suitable for soils
testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 3: Determination of particle density
Suitable for coarse soils and
Determination of particle density
aggregates
EN 1097-6 Tests for mechanical and physical
Suitable only for assessment of topsoil
properties of aggregates – Part 6: Determination of

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prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

particle density and water absorption

14 Intrinsic modulus EN 13286-43 Unbound and hydraulically bound ISRM Suggested method Suitable for bound mixtures
mixtures – Part 43: Test methods for the determination
Suitable for rocks
of the modulus of elasticity of hydraulically bound
mixtures Suitable for rocks
EN 14580 Natural stone test methods - Determination Suitable for rocks
of static elastic modulus
EN 14146 Natural stone test methods - Determination
of the dynamic modulus of elasticity (by measuring the
fundamental resonance frequency)
15 Proctor Compaction EN 13286-1 Unbound and hydraulically bound Suitable for soils and aggregates
mixtures- Part 1: Test methods for laboratory reference
(Optimum Water density and water content - Introduction, general Suitable for soils and aggregates, but
Content and similar procedures are applicable to fine
requirements and sampling
Maximum dry soils. NOTE Re-use of material is
density) EN 13286-2 Unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures prohibited.
– Part 2: Test methods for laboratory reference density
and water content.- Proctor compaction Suitable for soils up to 31,5 mm

EN 13286-3 Unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures Suitable for soils and aggregates
– Part 3: Test methods for laboratory reference density Suitable for coarse soils and
and water content - Vibrocompression with controlled aggregates
parameters
EN 13286-4 Unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures
– Part 4: Test methods for laboratory reference density
and water content. Vibrating hammer
EN 13286-5 Unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures
– Part 5: Test methods for laboratory reference density
and water content. Vibrating table
16 Mechanical EN 13383-1 Armourstone – Part 1: Specification ISRM Suggested Methods Suitable for rock materials
soundness (Hardness, abrasiveness,
EN 13383-2 Armourstone – Part 2: Test methods
(degradability or indentation hardness, Slake Suitable for rock materials
fragmentability). EN 1367-1 Tests for thermal and weathering properties durability, fracture toughness) Suitable for rock materials
of aggregates – Part 1: Determination of resistance to
freezing and thawing Suitable for coarse soils and
aggregates
EN 1367-4 Tests for thermal and weathering properties
of aggregates – Part 4: Determination of drying Suitable for cement bound materials
Suitable for coarse soils and

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

shrinkage aggregates
EN 1367-5 Tests for thermal and weathering properties Suitable for coarse soils, rock materials
of aggregates – Part 5: Determination of resistance to and aggregates
thermal shock
EN 1097-6 Tests for mechanical and physical
properties of aggregates – Part 6: Determination of
particle density and water absorption
EN 1367-2 Tests for thermal and weathering properties
of aggregates – Part 2: Magnesium sulphate test.
EN 14227-14 Hydraulically bound mixtures
specifications – Part 14: Soil treated by fly ash
17 Mineralogy EN ISO 14688−1 Geotechnical investigation and ISRM Suggested Method Provides system for field description of
testing –Identification and classification of soil - Part 1: Petrographic description soils
Identification and description
Provides system for field description of
EN ISO 14689-1 Geotechnical investigation and testing rocks
–Identification and classification of rock - Part 1:
Suitable for aggregates
Identification and description
EN 932-3 Tests for general properties of aggregates – Suitable for soils
Part 3: Procedure and terminology for simplified Suitable where micro-petrographic
petrographic description description is required
EN 13925 (all parts) Non-destructive testing - X-ray
diffraction from polycrystalline and amorphous material
EN ISO 10769 Clay geosynthetic barriers -
Determination of water absorption of bentonite
18 Chemical (pH, EN 1744-1 Tests for chemical properties of aggregates ISO 11048 Soil quality- Suitable for aggregates; similar test
carbonate, sulfate, – Part 1: Chemical analysis Determination of water-soluble methods are also suitable for soils
chloride) and acid-soluble sulfate
EN 1744-3 Tests for chemical properties of aggregates Suitable for aggregates; similar test
– Part 3: Preparation of eluates by leaching of EN ISO 10693 Soil quality - methods are also suitable for soils
aggregates Determination of carbonate
content - Volumetric method Suitable for aggregates; similar test
EN 1744-5 Tests for chemical properties of aggregates methods are also suitable for soils
– Part 5: Determination of acid soluble chloride salts ISO 10390 Soil quality -
Determination of pH Suitable for soils
Carried out using the Scheibler method
Suitable for soils

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prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

19 Frost susceptibility EN 1097-6 Tests for mechanical and physical Suitable for coarse soils, rock materials
properties of aggregates – Part 6: Determination of and aggregates
particle density and water absorption
Suitable for coarse soils, rock materials
EN 1367-1 Tests for thermal and weathering properties and aggregates
of aggregates – Part 1: Determination of resistance to
freezing and thawing Suitable for coarse soils, rock materials
and aggregates
EN 1367-6 Tests for thermal and weathering properties
of aggregates – Part 6: Determination of resistance to
freezing and thawing in the presence of salt (NaCl)
20 Chemical soundness EN 1367-2 Tests for thermal and weathering properties Suitable for coarse soils and
of aggregates – Part 2: Magnesium sulphate test aggregates
21 Ash content (after No European Standard but there are
combustion) national standards
State Parameters

22 Water content EN ISO 17892-1 Geotechnical investigation and testing ISRM Suggested Method Water Suitable but the oven temperatures
– Laboratory testing of soil – Part 1: Determination of content used vary between standards
water content
Suitable but the oven temperatures
EN 1097-5 Tests for mechanical and physical used vary between standards
properties of aggregates – Part 5: Determination of the
water content by drying in a ventilated oven Suitable for rocks

23 Density EN ISO 17892-2 Geotechnical investigation and testing EN ISO 11272 Soil quality - Suitable for soils
– Laboratory testing of soil – Part 2: Determination bulk Determination of dry bulk density
density Suitable for coarse soils and
ISRM Suggested Methods aggregates
EN 1097-3 Tests for mechanical and physical
properties of aggregates – Part 3: Determination of Suitable for coarse soils and
aggregates
loose bulk density and voids
EN 1097-4 Tests for mechanical and physical Methods given are sand replacement
and core cutter which are acceptable
properties of aggregates – Part 4: Determination of the
voids of dry compacted filler for soils
Suitable for rock materials

24 Undrained strength prEN ISO 17892-6 Geotechnical investigation and Suitable for fine soils
testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 6: Fall cone
Suitable for fine and composite soils
test

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 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

CEN ISO/TS 17892-7 Geotechnical investigation and Suitable for fine and composite soils
testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 7: Unconfined
compression test on fine-grained soils
CEN ISO/TS 17892-8 Geotechnical investigation and
testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 8:
Unconsolidated undrained triaxial test
25 Drained strength CEN ISO/TS 17892-9 Geotechnical investigation and ISRM Suggested Method Suitable for fine and composite soils
testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 9:
Suitable for soils
Consolidated triaxial compression tests on water
saturated soil Suitable for rocks using laboratory and
CEN ISO/TS 17892-10 Geotechnical investigation and field tests
testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 10: Direct
shear tests
26 Compressive CEN ISO/TS 17892-7 Geotechnical investigation and Suitable for soils
strength(soil) testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 7: Unconfined
compression test on fine-grained soil Suitable for soils

CEN ISO/TS 17892-8 Geotechnical investigation and Suitable for bound materials
testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 8:
Unconsolidated undrained triaxial test
EN 13286-41 Unbound and hydraulically bound
mixtures – Part 41: Test method for determination of
the compressive strength of hydraulically bound
mixtures

27 Tensile strength EN 13286-40 Unbound and hydraulically bound ISRM Suggested Methods Suitable for coarse soils or aggregates
mixtures – Part 40: Test method for the determination Indirect Tensile Strength
of the direct tensile strength of hydraulically bound Suitable for rocks
mixtures

28 Stiffness prEN ISO 17892-5 Geotechnical investigation and Suitable for evaluation of compaction
testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 5: Incremental and trafficability
loading oedometer test
Suitable for fine and composite soils
CEN ISO/TS 17892-8 Geotechnical investigation and
Suitable for fine and composite soils
testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 8:
Unconsolidated ndrained triaxial test
CEN ISO/TS 17892-9 Geotechnical investigation and

33
prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 9:

Consolidated triaxial compression tests on water
saturated soil
29 CBR EN 13286-47 Unbound and hydraulically bound Suitable for coarse soils and
mixtures – Part 47: Test method for the determination aggregates, but similar procedures are
CBR soaked of California bearing ratio, immediate bearing index and applicable to fine soils;
linear swelling
30 Swelling potential prEN ISO 17892-5 Geotechnical investigation and ISRM Suggested Methods Suitable for fine soils
testing – Laboratory testing of test – Part 5:
Incremental loading oedometer test Suitable for soils

EN 13286-47 Unbound and hydraulically bound Suitable for rocks

mixtures – Part 47: Test method for the determination
of California bearing ratio, immediate bearing index and
linear swelling
31 Collapse potential No European Standard but there are
national standards
32 Moisture Condition EN 13286-46 Unbound and hydraulically bound Single point test on coarse soils and
Value mixtures – Part 46: Test method for the determination aggregates
of the moisture condition value
33 Hydraulic CEN ISO/TS 17892-11 Geotechnical investigation and ISO 17312 Soil quality - Suitable for soils
conductivity testing – Laboratory testing of soil – Part 11: Determination of hydraulic
Suitable for field testing of soils and
Determination of permeability by constant and falling conductivity of saturated porous
(Permeability) head materials using a rigid-wall rocks
permeameter Suitable for soils
EN ISO 22282 (all parts) Geotechnical investigation
and testing - Geohydraulic testing ISO 17313 Soil quality - Not suitable for soils
Determination of hydraulic
conductivity of saturated porous Suitable for soils
materials using a flexible wall
permeameter
EN ISO 11274 Soil quality -
Determination of the water-
retention characteristic -
Laboratory methods
34 Seismic velocity ISRM Suggested method Suitable for rock in situ or in the
laboratory
35 Disintegration, EN ISO 14689-1 Geotechnical Investigation and testing ISRM Suggested Method Suitable for rocks
discontinuity surface, – identification and classification of rock – Part 1: Description of discontinuities in
Suitable for description of rock masses

34
 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

etc. Identification and description rock masses (See Step 1 in Table A)

36 Resistivity No European Standard but there are

national standards
37 Redox potential ISO 11271 Soil quality - Not suitable for soils
Determination of redox potential -
Field method

35
prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

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EN 932-2, Tests for general properties of aggregates — Part 2: Methods for reducing laboratory samples

EN 932-3, Tests for general properties of aggregates — Part 3: Procedure and terminology for simplified
petrographic description

EN 933-9, Tests for geometrical properties of aggregates — Assessment of fines — Part 9: Methylene blue
test

EN 1097-1, Tests for mechanical and physical properties of aggregates — Part 1: Determination of the
resistance to wear (micro-Deval)

EN 1097-2, Tests for mechanical and physical properties of aggregates — Part 2: Methods for the
determination of resistance to fragmentation

EN 1097-3, Tests for mechanical and physical properties of aggregates — Part 3: Determination of loose bulk
density and voids

EN 1097-4, Tests for mechanical and physical properties of aggregates — Part 4: Determination of the voids
of dry compacted filler

EN 1097-5, Tests for mechanical and physical properties of aggregates — Part 5: Determination of the water
content by drying in a ventilated oven

EN 1097-6, Tests for mechanical and physical properties of aggregates — Part 6: Determination of particle
density and water absorption

EN 1367-1, Tests for thermal and weathering properties of aggregates — Part 1: Determination of resistance
to freezing and thawing

EN 1367-2, Tests for thermal and weathering properties of aggregates — Part 2: Magnesium sulfate test

EN 1367-4, Tests for thermal and weathering properties of aggregates — Part 4: Determination of drying
shrinkage

EN 1367-5, Tests for thermal and weathering properties of aggregates — Part 5: Determination of resistance
to thermal shock

EN 1367-6, Tests for thermal and weathering properties of aggregates — Part 6: Determination of resistance
to freezing and thawing in the presence of salt (NaCl)

EN 1744-1, Tests for chemical properties of aggregates — Part 1: Chemical analysis

EN 1744-3, Tests for chemical properties of aggregates — Part 3: Preparation of eluates by leaching of
aggregates

EN 1744-5, Tests for chemical properties of aggregates — Part 5: Determination of acid soluble chloride salts

EN 1926, Natural stone test methods — Determination of uniaxial compressive strength

EN 13286-1, Unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures — Part 1: Test methods for laboratory reference
density and water content — Introduction, general requirements and sampling

36
 prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

EN 13286-2, Unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures — Part 2: Test methods for laboratory reference
density and water content — Proctor compaction

EN 13286-3, Unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures — Part 3: Test methods for laboratory reference
density and water content — Vibrocompression with controlled parameters

EN 13286-4, Unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures — Part 4: Test methods for laboratory reference
density and water content — Vibrating hammer

EN 13286-5, Unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures — Part 5: Test methods for laboratory reference
density and water content — Vibrating table

EN 13286-40, Unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures — Part 40: Test method for the determination of the
direct tensile strength of hydraulically bound mixtures

EN 13286-41, Unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures — Part 41: Test method for the determination of the
compressive strength of hydraulically bound mixtures

EN 13286-43, Unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures — Part 43: Test method for the determination of the
modulus of elasticity of hydraulically bound mixtures

EN 13286-46, Unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures — Part 46: Test method for the determination of the
moisture condition value

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California bearing ratio, immediate bearing index and linear swelling

EN 13383-2, Armourstone — Part 2: Test methods

EN 13925 (all parts), Non-destructive testing — X-ray diffraction from polycrystalline and amorphous material

EN 14146, Natural stone test methods — Determination of the dynamic modulus of elasticity (by measuring
the fundamental resonance frequency)

EN 14227-14, Hydraulically bound mixtures — Specifications — Part 14: Soil treated by fly ash

EN 14580, Natural stone test methods — Determination of static elastic modulus

EN ISO 10693, Soil quality — Determination of carbonate content — Volumetric method (ISO 10693)

EN ISO 10769, Clay geosynthetic barriers — Determination of water absorption of bentonite (ISO 10769)

EN ISO 11272, Soil quality — Determination of dry bulk density (ISO 11272)

EN ISO 11274, Soil quality — Determination of the water-retention characteristic — Laboratory methods (ISO
11274)

EN ISO 11508, Soil quality — Determination of particle density (ISO 11508)

EN ISO 14688-2, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Identification and classification of soil — Part 2:
Principles for a classification (ISO 14688-2)

EN ISO 17892-1, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Laboratory testing of soil — Part 1: Determination
of water content (ISO 17892-1)

EN ISO 17892-2, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Laboratory testing of soil — Part 2: Determination
of bulk density (ISO 17892-2)

37
prEN 16907-2:2015 (E)

prEN ISO 17892-3, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Laboratory testing of soil — Part 3:
Determination of particle density (ISO/DIS 17892-3)

prEN ISO 17892-4, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Laboratory testing of soil — Part 4:
Determination of particle size distribution (ISO/DIS 17892-4)

prEN ISO 17892-5, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Laboratory testing of soil — Part 5: Incremental
loading oedometer test (ISO 17892-5)

prEN ISO 17892-6, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Laboratory testing of soil — Part 6: Fall cone
test (ISO 17892-6)

CEN ISO/TS 17892-7, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Laboratory testing of soil — Part 7:
Unconfined compression test on fine-grained soil (ISO/TS 17892-7)

CEN ISO/TS 17892-8, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Laboratory testing of soil — Part 8:
Unconsolidated undrained triaxial test (ISO/TS 17892-8)

CEN ISO/TS 17892-9, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Laboratory testing of soil — Part 9:
Consolidated triaxial compression tests on water saturated soil (ISO/TS 17892-9)

CEN ISO/TS 17892-10, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Laboratory testing of soil — Part 10: Direct
shear tests (ISO/TS 17892-10)

CEN ISO/TS 17892-11, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Laboratory testing of soil — Part 11:
Determination of permeability by constant and falling head (ISO/TS 17892-11)

CEN ISO/TS 17892-12, Geotechnical investigation and testing — Laboratory testing of soil — Part 12:
Determination of Atterberg limits (ISO/TS 17892-12)

EN ISO 22282 (all parts), Geotechnical investigation and testing — Geohydraulic testing (ISO 22282)

ISO 10381-1, Soil quality — Sampling — Part 1: Guidance on the design of sampling programmes

ISO 10381-2, Soil quality — Sampling — Part 2: Guidance on sampling techniques

ISO 10381-8, Soil quality — Sampling — Part 8: Guidance on sampling of stockpiles

ISO 10390, Soil quality — Determination of pH

ISO 10694, Soil quality — Determination of organic and total carbon after dry combustion (elementary
analysis)

ISO 11048, Soil quality — Determination of water-soluble and acid-soluble sulfate

ISO 11271, Soil quality — Determination of redox potential — Field method

ISO 11277, Soil quality — Determination of particle size distribution in mineral soil material — Method by
sieving and sedimentation

ISO 14235, Soil quality — Determination of organic carbon by sulfochromic oxidation

ISO 17312, Soil quality — Determination of hydraulic conductivity of saturated porous materials using a rigid-
wall permeameter

ISO 17313, Soil quality — Determination of hydraulic conductivity of saturated porous materials using a
flexible wall permeameter

38