ASTM D4612-16 - Standard Test Method for Calculating Thermal Diffusivity of Rock and Soil
Standard Test Method for Calculating Thermal Diffusivity of Rock and Soil
| Standard number: | D4612-16 |
| Released: | 01.05.2016 |
| Status: | Active |
| Pages: | 5 |
| Section: | 04.08 |
| Keywords: | density; heating tests; porosity; rock; specific heat; temperature tests; thermal analysis; thermal diffusivity; |
1.1 This test method involves calculation of the thermal diffusivity from measured values of the mass density, thermal conductivity, and specific heat at constant pressure. It is applicable for any materials where these data can be determined. The temperature range covered by this test method is 293 to 573 K. This test method is closely linked to the overall test procedure used in obtaining the primary data on density, specific heat, and thermal conductivity. It cannot be used as a “stand alone” test method because the thermal diffusivity values calculated by this test method are dependent on the nature of the primary data base. The test method furnishes general guidelines to calculate the thermal diffusivity but cannot be considered to be all-inclusive to capture issues related to the density, specific heat, and thermal conductivity
Note 1: The diffusivity, as determined by this test method, is intended to be a volume average value, with the averaging volume being ≥ 2 × 10−5 m3 (20 cm3). This requirement necessitates the use of specimens with volumes greater than the minimum averaging volume and precludes use of flash methods of measuring thermal diffusivity, such as the laser pulse technique.
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurements are included in this standard.
1.3 This test method is intended to apply to isotropic samples; that is, samples in which the thermal transport properties do not depend on the direction of heat flow. If the thermal conductivity depends on the direction of heat flow, then the diffusivity derived by this test method must be associated with the same direction as that utilized in the conductivity measurement.
1.4 The thermal conductivity, specific heat, and mass density measurements must be made with specimens that are as near identical in composition and water content as possible.
1.5 The generally inhomogeneous nature of geologic formations precludes the unique specification of a thermal diffusivity characterizing an entire rock formation or soil layer. Geologic media are highly variable in character, and it is impossible to specify a test method for diffusivity determination that will be suitable for all possible cases. Some of the most important limitations arise from the following factors:
1.5.1 Variable Mineralogy—If the mineralogy of the formation under study is highly variable over distances on the same order as the size of the sample from which the conductivity, specific heat, and density specimens are cut, then the calculated diffusivity for a given set of specimens will be dependent on the precise locations from which these specimens were obtained.
1.5.2 Variable Porosity—The thermal properties of porous rock or soil are highly dependent on the amount and nature of the porosity. A spatially varying porosity introduces problems of a nature similar to those encountered with a spatially varying composition. In addition, the character of the porosity may preclude complete dehydration by oven drying.
1.6 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026.
1.6.1 The procedure used to specify how data are collected/recorded or calculated in this standard are regarded as the industry standard. In addition, they are representative of the significant digits that generally should be retained. The procedures used do not consider material variation, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any considerations for the user’s objectives; and it is common practice to increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be commensurate with these considerations. It is beyond the scope of this standard to consider significant digits used in analytical methods for engineering design.
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.