4.1 This test method is used to determine the amount of expansion of a mortar bar when it is stored in water. The amount of mortar-bar expansion may relate to the amount of sulfate in the cement; expansion may become excessive when the cement contains too much sulfate.

4.2 Some cement specifications limit the amount of sulfate contained in hydraulic cement by requiring that the amount of expansion in water not exceed a specified value.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the expansion of mortar bars made using hydraulic cement, of which sulfate is an integral part.

1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.3 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.2)

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.