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.

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.

1.1.1 Warning: Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. Values in parentheses are for information only.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.