ASTM C359
Full Name
ASTM C359 – Standard Test Method for Early Stiffening of Hydraulic Cement (Mortar Method)
Scope
ASTM C359 is a standard designed to determine the early stiffening characteristics of hydraulic cement. This method evaluates how quickly the cement mortar loses its plasticity after mixing, which can impact its workability and placement in construction.
The scope of ASTM C359 includes:
- Purpose: the main purpose is to measure the early stiffening of hydraulic cement mortar, providing an indication of its workability over time.
- Test procedure: a mortar sample of normal consistency is prepared and placed in a container. The penetration of a plunger into the mortar is measured at specific time intervals to track the stiffening rate.
- Initial penetration: the initial penetration is measured 3 minutes after the start of mixing.
- Subsequent penetrations: additional penetrations are measured at 15-minute intervals to assess the change in consistency over time.
- Stiffening Rate: the stiffening rate is determined by comparing the initial and subsequent penetration values.
This standard is essential for:
- Quality control: assessing the consistency and workability of hydraulic cement to ensure it meets the desired specifications.
- Troubleshooting: identifying potential problems with cement that may lead to premature stiffening and difficulties in placement.
- Research and development: evaluating the effects of different factors, such as admixtures or temperature, on the early stiffening behavior of hydraulic cement.
ASTM C359 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the ASTM C359 standard.
Contact us for more information.
Resources
Keywords
early stiffening; hydraulic cement; mortar; penetration; consistency; plunger; mixing time