5.1 This test method is used primarily by those interested in research on methods for determining the potential sulfate resistance of portland cement. This test method is also used to establish that a sulfate-resisting portland cement meets the performance requirements of Specification C150/C150M.

1.1 This test method, which is applicable only to portland cements, covers the determination of the expansion of mortar bars made from a mixture of portland cement and gypsum in such proportions that the mixture has a sulfur trioxide (SO₃) content of 7.0 mass %.

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

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, 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

1.4 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.