Which ASTM specification must mound fill material meet?

• A. ASTM C-33 for fine aggregate
• B. ASTM C-336 for fine aggregate
• C. ASTM C-33 for coarse aggregate
• D. ASTM C-144 for fine aggregate

Answer: (A)

Mound fill material is a fine-aggregate material, typically sand, and it must meet a standard that ensures consistent particle size and cleanliness. ASTM C-33 is the standard for concrete aggregates and includes specifications for the fine fraction used as concrete sand. Meeting this standard means the fill has the right gradation and is free of excessive deleterious material, which helps maintain proper drainage and prevents clogging in the mound’s distribution bed. Using a specification for coarse aggregate would imply larger particles, which wouldn’t provide the same porosity and stability for mound fill. Masonry sand standards focus on sand used in mortar, not the drainage fill for a mound system. The other cited standard isn’t the one used for this application.