Direct observation of the subsurface by the collection of soil and rock samples is an essential part of site characterization for environmental purposes (see 7.1.7 of Guide D5730). This guide provides information on the major types of soil and rock sampling devices used on drill rigs to assist in selection of devices that are suitable for known site geologic conditions, and provide samples that meet project objectives. This guide should not be used as a substitute for consulting with someone experienced in sampling soil or rock in similar formations before determining the best method and type of sampling.

This guide should be used in conjunction with Guides D2113 and D6151 and drilling method-specific guides (see Guides D5781, D5782, D5783, D5784, D5872, D5875 and D5876) as part of developing a detailed site investigation and sampling plan (see 5.1.5 of Guide D5730) for sites that require mobilization of a drill rig for subsurface investigations. The selection of drilling methods and sampling devices goes hand-in-hand. In some cases soil sample requirements may influence choice of drilling method, or conversely, types of available drill rigs may influence choice of sampling devices.

This guide should be used in conjunction with Guide D5434 for field logging of soil and rock samples, Practice D5911 for data elements to identify a soil sampling site, and where appropriate, Practice D4220, for preserving and transporting soil samples, Practice D5070 for preserving and transporting rock core samples, Practice D3694 for preparation of sample containers and for preservation of organic constituents, and Practice 5088D5088 for decontamination of field equipment used at nonradioactive waste sites.

1.1 This guide covers guidance for the selection of soil and rock sampling devices used with drill rigs for the purpose of characterizing in situ physical and hydraulic properties, chemical characteristics, subsurface lithology, stratigraphy and structure, and hydrogeologic units in environmental investigations.

1.2 This guide does not specifically address selection of soil sampling devices for use with direct-push sampling systems, but the information in this guide on thick-wall and thin-wall samplers is generally applicable to direct-push soil sampling.

1.3 This guide should be used in conjunction with referenced ASTM guides, practices, and methods on drilling techniques for geoenvironmental investigations and use of sampling devices referenced in 2.1, and with Guide D5730.

1.4 This guide does not address selection of sampling devices for hand-held soil sampling equipment, and soil sample collection with solid-stem augering devices, or collection of grab samples or hand-carved block samples from accessible excavations. Refer to Appendix X1.2 for guidance on these topics. This guide should be used in conjunction with Guide D4700 when thin-walled, split barrel, ring-lined barrel and piston samplers with solid- and hollow-stem augers are used in the unsaturated zone.

1.5 This guide does not address devices for collecting cores from submerged sediments or sampling devices for solid wastes. Refer to Guide D4823 for guidance on these topics.

1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. However, dimensions of materials used in the drilling industry are given in English units by convention, therefore, English units are used where necessary in this guide.

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

1.8 This guide offers an organized collection of information or series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education and experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgement. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.