ASTM D5079-08

The geologic characteristics and the intended use of the rock core samples determine the extent and type of preservation required. If engineering properties are to be determined for the core, it must be handled and preserved in such a way that the measured properties are not significantly influenced by mechanical damage, changes in chemistry, and environmental conditions of moisture and temperature, from the time that the core is recovered from the core drill until testing is performed. Drill core is also the sample record for the subsurface geology at the borehole location, and as such must be preserved for some period of time, in some cases indefinitely, for future geologic study.

These practices present a selection of curatorial requirements which apply to the majority of projects. The requirements are given for a variety of rock types and project types ranging from small to large and from noncritical to critical. Noncritical projects are those in which failure of an element or the structure would result in negligible risk of injury and property loss, while there is great risk to property and life after failure of critical structures and projects. Guidance is given for the selection of those specific requirements which should be followed for a given project.

1.1 These practices cover the preservation, transportation, storage, cataloging, retrieval, and post-test disposition of rock core samples obtained for testing purposes and geologic study.

1.2 These practices apply to both hard and soft rock, but exclude ice and permafrost.

1.3 These practices do not apply to those situations in which changes in volatile gas components, contamination of the pore fluids, or mechanical stress relaxation affect the intended use for the core.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.5 This practice offers a set of instruction for performing one or more specific operations. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgement. Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project's many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address the safety problems 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.