API Spec 13A covers physical properties and test procedures for materials manufactured for use in oil- and gas-well drilling fluids. The materials covered are barite, haematite, bentonite, nontreated bentonite, OCMA grade bentonite, attapulgite, sepiolite, technical grade low-viscosity carboxymethylcellulose (CMC LVT), technical grade high-viscosity carboxymethylcellulose (CMC-HVT), and starch. This International Standard is intended for the use of manufacturers of named products.

This edition of API Spec 13A is the identical national adoption of ISO 13500:2006, Petroleum and natural gas industries-Drilling fluid materials-Specifications and tests.