4.1 This test method provides a means of verifying that masonry materials used in construction result in masonry that meets the specified compressive strength (Note 1).

Note 1: A prism is an assembly of components used to measure or verify a property (in this case, the specified compressive strength of masonry, f '_m). Testing of prisms may be part of a project’s field quality control or assurance program. In these cases, prisms are built as companions to a masonry element (for example, a masonry wall, column, pilaster, beam, or other element) at a jobsite where the masonry element is site-constructed, or within a factory or shop where the element is shop-built. These prisms are not intended to replicate or model the performance or design attributes of the as-built element. Prisms may also be fabricated in a laboratory for research purposes (Appendix X2). In each scenario (field or research) the test procedures are structured so that masonry assembly compressive strength (f_mt) is measured in an accurate and repeatable manner.

4.2 This test method provides a means of evaluating compressive strength characteristics of in-place masonry construction through testing of prisms obtained from that construction when sampled in accordance with Practice C1532/C1532M. Decisions made in preparing such field-removed prisms for testing, determining the net area, and interpreting the results of compression tests require professional judgment.

4.3 If this test method is used as a guideline for performing research to determine the effects of various prism construction or test parameters on the compressive strength of masonry, deviations from this test method shall be reported. Such research prisms shall not be used to verify compliance with a specified compressive strength of masonry.

Note 2: The testing laboratory performing this test method should be evaluated in accordance with Practice C1093.

4.3.1 Appendix X2 includes guidance information for the researcher on aspects of materials, construction, and analysis.

1.1 This test method covers procedures for masonry prism construction and testing, and procedures for determining the compressive strength of masonry, f_mt, used to determine compliance with the specified compressive strength of masonry, f ′_m. When this test method is used for research purposes, the construction and test procedures within serve as a guideline and provide control parameters.

1.2 This test method also covers procedures for determining the compressive strength of prisms obtained from field-removed masonry specimens.

1.3 The text of this standard refers to notes and footnotes that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.5 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.

1.6 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.