4.1 This test method is useful for providing engineering values for stress and deflection analysis of stone panels. It is also useful in indicating the differences in flexural modulus of elasticity between various dimension stones and stones of the same type in different loading directions (parallel and perpendicular to rift or bedding planes).

1.1 This test method covers the procedure for determining the flexural modulus of elasticity of stone by using a simple beam with quarter-point loading.

1.2 Stone tests may be made with load applied perpendicular to the bedding plane or rift and with load applied parallel to the bedding plane or rift.

1.3 Stone tests may be made for wet and dry specimen conditions.

1.4 The specifier of the test shall determine which conditions shall be used.

1.5 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined.

1.6 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.

1.7 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.