3.1 This test method provides a means of assessing the sulfate resistance of mortars made using portland cement, blends of portland cement with pozzolans or slags, and blended hydraulic cements. Test Method C452 is suitable for evaluating portland cements but not blended cements or blends of portland cement with pozzolans or slags.

3.2 The standard exposure solution used in this test method, unless otherwise directed, contains 352 moles of Na₂SO₄ per m³ (50 g/L). Other sulfate concentrations or other sulfates such as MgSO₄ may be used to simulate the environmental exposure of interest. Further discussion of these and other technical issues is given in the Appendix.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of length change of mortar bars immersed in a sulfate solution. Mortar bars made using mortar described in Test Method C109/C109M are cured until they attain a compressive strength of 20.0 ± 1.0 MPa [3000 ± 150 psi], as measured using cubes made of the same mortar, before the bars are immersed.

1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. Within the text, the inch-pound units are shown in brackets. 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.

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.