1.1 This test method covers direct determination of the proportion by mass of individual phases in portland cement or portland-cement clinker using quantitative X-ray (QXRD) analysis. The following phases are covered by this standard: aluminate (tricalcium aluminate, C₃A), ferrite (tetracalcium aluminoferrite, C₄AF), and periclase (magnesium oxide, M) (see Note 1).

Note 1-In the future, Subcommittee C1.23 plans to add additional phases: alite (tricalcium silicate, C₃S, belite (dicalcium silicate, C₂S), gypsum (CSH₂) hemihydrate (CSH1/2), and anhydrite (CS).

1.2 This test method specifies certain general aspects of the analytical procedure, but does not specify detailed aspects. A recommended procedure is described, but not specified. Regardless of the procedure selected, the user must demonstrate by analysis of reference materials (RM's) that the particular analytical procedure selected for this purpose qualifies (that is, provides acceptable precision and bias) (Note 2). The recommended procedure is the one used in the round-robin analysis to determine the precision and bias levels of this test method.

Note 2-A similar approach was used in the performance requirements for alternative methods for chemical analysis in Test methods C 114.

1.3 The values stated in SI units shall be regarded as the standard.

1.4 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. For specific hazards, see Section 9.