This specification covers three types of mortar cement for use where mortar for masonry is required. Mortar cements are classified as Type N, S, or M, according to the prescribed physical requirements. Mortar cement shall conform to the prescribed requirements such as fineness, autoclave expansion, time of setting, compressive strength, flexural bond strength, air content of mortar, and water retention. Test specimens shall undergo molding and storage before conducting the procedures in the required test methods.

1.1 This specification covers three types of mortar cement for use where mortar for masonry is required.

1.2 Units—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. Values in SI units shall be obtained by measurement in SI units or by appropriate conversion, using the Rules for Conversion and Rounding given in Standard IEEE/ASTM SI 10, of measurements made in other units. Values are stated in only SI units when inch-pound units are not used in practice.

1.3 The text of this standard refers to notes and footnotes which 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 following safety hazards caveat pertains only to Section 15. 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)

1.5 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.