ASTM C563
Full Name
ASTM C563 – Standard Guide for Approximation of Optimum SO3 in Hydraulic Cement
Scope
ASTM C563 is a guide that outlines the procedure for estimating the optimum sulfur trioxide (SO3) content in hydraulic cement to achieve maximum performance, primarily focusing on compressive strength. It achieves this by substituting a portion of the cement with calcium sulfate, which is the primary source of SO3 in cement.
Key aspects covered by ASTM C563:
- Applicability: the guide is applicable to various hydraulic cements, including those specified in ASTM C150 (Portland Cement), ASTM C595 (Blended Hydraulic Cement), and ASTM C1157 (Performance Specification for Hydraulic Cement).
- Purpose: the primary goal is to determine the approximate SO3 content that yields optimal performance, usually assessed by compressive strength at specific ages (24 hours, 3 days, or 7 days).
- Methodology: it involves preparing mortar mixtures with varying SO3 levels by substituting a portion of cement with calcium sulfate and measuring the resulting compressive strength. The data is then used to fit a curve and estimate the optimum SO3 content.
- Limitations: The guide emphasizes that the optimum SO3 content determined by this method is an approximation and may not be the exact value for optimal performance in all concrete mixtures. It also notes that factors like temperature and the use of water-reducing admixtures can influence the optimum SO3 content.
Overall, ASTM C563 serves as a valuable tool for cement manufacturers and researchers to optimize the SO3 content in hydraulic cement for enhanced performance.
ASTM C563 Accredited Laboratory
Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the ASTM C563 standard.
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Resources
Keywords
sulfur trioxide; SO3; hydraulic cement; optimum SO3; compressive strength; calcium sulfate; mortar mixtures; substitution; performance; portland cement; blended cement; temperature