Designation: C1314 − 16

Standard Test Method for

Compressive Strength of Masonry Prisms1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1314; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope* C476 Specification for Grout for Masonry

1.1 This test method covers procedures for masonry prism C780 Test Method for Preconstruction and Construction
construction and testing, and procedures for determining the Evaluation of Mortars for Plain and Reinforced Unit
compressive strength of masonry, fmt, used to determine Masonry
compliance with the specified compressive strength of C1019 Test Method for Sampling and Testing Grout
masonry, f 'm. When this test method is used for research C1093 Practice for Accreditation of Testing Agencies for
purposes, the construction and test procedures within serve as Masonry
a guideline and provide control parameters. C1180 Terminology of Mortar and Grout for Unit Masonry
C1232 Terminology of Masonry
1.2 This test method also covers procedures for determining C1532 Practice for Selection, Removal, and Shipment of
the compressive strength of prisms obtained from field- Manufactured Masonry Units and Masonry Specimens
removed masonry specimens. from Existing Construction
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded C1552 Practice for Capping Concrete Masonry Units, Re-
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical lated Units and Masonry Prisms for Compression Testing
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only C1587 Practice for Preparation of Field Removed Manufac-
and are not considered standard. tured Masonry Units and Masonry Specimens for Testing
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the E105 Practice for Probability Sampling of Materials
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the E111 Test Method for Young’s Modulus, Tangent Modulus,
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- and Chord Modulus
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. 3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
2. Referenced Documents 3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method, refer
2.1 ASTM Standards:2 to Terminologies C1180 and C1232.
C67 Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
Structural Clay Tile 3.2.1 set—a set consists of at least three prisms constructed
C136 Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse of the same material and tested at the same age.
Aggregates
3.3 Notations:
C140 Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete
3.3.1 f 'm—specified compressive strength of masonry.
Masonry Units and Related Units
C143/C143M Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic-Cement 3.3.2 fmt—compressive strength of masonry.
Concrete 3.3.3 hp—prism height.
C144 Specification for Aggregate for Masonry Mortar 3.3.4 tp—least actual lateral dimension of prism.
C270 Specification for Mortar for Unit Masonry
4. Significance and Use
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C15 on 4.1 This test method provides a means of verifying that
Manufactured Masonry Units and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee masonry materials used in construction result in masonry that
C15.04 on Research. meets the specified compressive strength.
Current edition approved June 1, 2016. Published July 2016. Originally approved
in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 2014 as C1314 – 14. DOI: 10.1520/ 4.2 This test method provides a means of evaluating com-
C1314-16.
2
pressive strength characteristics of in-place masonry construc-
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
tion through testing of prisms obtained from that construction
contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on when sampled in accordance with Practice C1532. Decisions
the ASTM website. made in preparing such field-removed prisms for testing,

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

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 C1314 − 16
determining the net area, and interpreting the results of sonry having wythes composed of different units or mortar,
compression tests require professional judgment. build prisms representative of each different wythe and test
4.3 If this test method is used as a guideline for performing separately.
research to determine the effects of various prism construction 5.5 Build prisms with full-size or reduced length units. Any
or test parameters on the compressive strength of masonry, required saw cutting shall be performed on units prior to prism
deviations from this test method shall be reported. Such construction. The moisture content(s) of units used to construct
research prisms shall not be used to verify compliance with a prisms shall be representative of those used in construction.
specified compressive strength of masonry. Prisms composed of units that contain closed cells shall have at
NOTE 1—The testing laboratory performing this test method should be
least one complete cell with one full-width cross web on either
evaluated in accordance with Practice C1093. end (see Fig. 2). Prisms composed of units without closed cells
shall have as symmetrical a cross section as possible. The
4.3.1 Appendix X2 includes guidance information for the
minimum length of prisms shall be 4 in. (100 mm).
researcher on aspects of materials, construction, and analysis.
NOTE 4—When using larger masonry units, experience has shown that
5. Masonry Prism Construction reducing the length of these units prior to prism construction makes their
handling and transportation easier. Thus, these reduced length unit prisms
5.1 Construct prisms of units representative of those used in are less likely to be damaged and are more likely to be properly capped
the construction. If units have projections (see Note 2) that and tested. Also, the smaller prism will be less likely to be affected by
project 1⁄2 in. (12.5 mm) or more, remove those projections by plate bending effects during testing, as described in Note 11, and will
saw cutting flush with the surface of the unit at the base of the therefore provide a more accurate assessment of the strength of the
materials in the masonry prism. For these reasons, the use of reduced
projection. The resulting units shall be a fully enclosed cell or length prisms is encouraged.
cells that will ensure a full bearing surface over the net
cross-section of the prism. If saw cutting will not result in a 5.6 Build masonry prisms with full mortar beds (mortar all
fully enclosed cell or cells, use full-size units, and, if grout is webs and face shells of hollow units). Use mortar representa-
used, grout in accordance with 5.9.4. If prisms are used for tive of that used in the corresponding construction. Use mortar
field quality control or assurance, record the location in the joint thickness and a method of positioning and aligning units,
structure that corresponds to the set of prisms constructed. that are representative of the corresponding construction. Use
mortar joints that are cut flush. For prisms to be grouted,
NOTE 2—Examples of projections include flutes, ribs, and face shells of remove mortar “fins” that protrude into the grout space.
open-ended units.
NOTE 3—Building codes or project specifications may require a set of 5.7 Build prisms a minimum of two units high with a
prisms for a given square footage of construction. Recording the location height-to-thickness ratio, hp/tp, between 1.3 and 5.0.
of the structure that corresponds to a set of prisms allows the test results
to be attributed to a particular portion of the structure. 5.8 Immediately following the construction of the prism,
5.2 Construct a set of prisms for each combination of seal the moisture-tight bag around the prism.
materials and each test age at which the compressive strength 5.9 Grouted Prisms.
of masonry is to be determined. 5.9.1 When prisms are fabricated for field quality control or
5.3 Build each prism in an opened, moisture-tight bag large assurance, build prisms at the same time as the corresponding
enough to enclose and seal the completed prism. Construct construction, and grout prisms when the corresponding con-
prisms on a flat, level base. Construct prisms in a location struction is being grouted. When prisms are used for other
where they will remain undisturbed until transported for purposes, grout prisms not less than 4 h nor more than 48 h
testing. following the construction of the prisms.
5.4 Construct prisms as shown in Fig. 1 with units laid in NOTE 5—Testing of prisms may be part of a project’s field quality
stack bond in stretcher position. Orient units in the prism as in control or assurance program. These prisms are intended to be represen-
tative of a constructed masonry element such as a wall, column, pilaster,
the corresponding construction. At the time of prism or beam. They are built as companions to the masonry element at a jobsite
construction, the surfaces of the units shall be free of moisture. where the masonry element is site-constructed, or within a factory or shop
Where the corresponding construction is of multi-wythe ma- where the element is shop-built. Prisms may also be fabricated in a

FIG. 1 Masonry Prism Construction

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 C1314 − 16
6.2 Prior to transporting constructed prisms and field-
removed masonry specimens, strap or clamp each prism or
specimen to prevent damage during handling and transporta-
tion. Secure prisms and specimens to prevent jarring,
bouncing, or tipping over during transporting.
6.3 Transport prisms and masonry specimens in accordance
with Practice C1532.
6.4 For field-removed masonry specimens, after the speci-
mens have been transported to the laboratory, obtain prisms
from the masonry specimens using procedures outlined in
Practice C1587.

7. Curing
7.1 After the initial 48 h of curing for constructed prisms,
maintain the bagged prisms in an area with a temperature of
75 6 15°F (24 6 8°C). Two days prior to testing, remove the
moisture-tight bags and continue storing at a temperature of
75 6 15°F (24 6 8°C) and a relative humidity less than 80 %.
FIG. 2 Reduction of Hollow Units Prior to Prism Construction
7.2 For prisms obtained from field-removed masonry, store
within the laboratory at a temperature of 75 6 15°F (24 6 8°C)
laboratory for research purposes.
and a relative humidity less than 80 % for at least two days
prior to testing.
5.9.2 Where the corresponding construction is to be solidly
grouted, solidly grout the prisms. Use grout representative of 7.3 Prisms shall not be oven-dried or otherwise exposed to
that used in the corresponding construction. Before placing temperatures exceeding storage temperature requirements at
grout, remove mortar droppings from the grout space. Use any time prior to testing.
grout consolidation and reconsolidation procedures represen- 7.4 Visible moisture shall not be present on the surface of
tative of those used in the construction. Place additional grout the prisms at the time of testing. Extend storage time as needed
into the prisms as necessary after each consolidation. Screed to ensure dry surface conditions of the prisms at the time of
off excess and finish the grout so that it is level with the top of testing.
the prism and in contact with the units at the perimeter of the 7.5 Test prisms at an age of 28 days or at the designated test
grout space. Grouted prisms shall contain no reinforcement. ages. Test a set of prisms at each age. Prism age shall be
5.9.3 Where the corresponding construction is to be par- determined from the time of laying units for ungrouted prisms,
tially grouted, construct two sets of prisms; grout one set solid and from the time of grouting for grouted prisms.
as described in 5.9.2 and leave the other set ungrouted.
5.9.4 If open-end units or prisms containing grout between 8. Measurements and Determination of Net Area
similar wythes are to be grouted, use a rigid impermeable
material as a form to confine the grout during placement on all 8.1 Measuring Prisms—As shown in Fig. 3, measure the
ends that are open (see Note 6). Brace forms to prevent
displacement during grouting. Grout as described in 5.9.2.
NOTE 6—Satisfactory performance of forming material has been
achieved using wood covered with plastic, steel plates, or pieces of rigid
acrylic and strapped or clamped in place. Use of impermeable material is
more representative of actual construction, if grouted open ends are not in
contact with webs of adjacent units.
5.9.5 Immediately following the grouting operation, reseal
the moisture-tight bag around the prism.
5.10 Keep all prisms from freezing. Do not disturb or move
prisms for the first 48 h after construction and grouting. Keep
prisms in the moisture-tight bags until 48 h prior to testing.
5.11 Store an indicating maximum-minimum thermometer
with the sample and record the maximum and minimum
temperatures experienced during the initial 48-h period.

6. Obtaining and Transporting Masonry Prisms

6.1 For field-removed masonry specimens, select and re-
move specimens in accordance with Practice C1532. FIG. 3 Prism Measurement Location

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 C1314 − 16
length and width at the edges of the top and bottom faces of the methods of measuring face shell thickness.
prisms to the nearest 0.05 in. (1 mm). Determine the length and
width by averaging the four measurements of each dimension. 9. Capping
Measure the height of the prism at the center of each face to the 9.1 Capping Prisms—Cap prisms in accordance with Prac-
nearest 0.05 in. (1 mm). Determine the height by averaging the tice C1552.
four measurements.
8.1.1 For prisms obtained from field-removed masonry 10. Procedure
specimens, perform additional measurements as needed to 10.1 Test Apparatus—The test machine shall have an accu-
document the condition and dimensions of the specimen. racy of plus or minus 1.0 % over the anticipated load range.
The upper platen shall be a spherically seated, hardened metal
NOTE 7—Prisms obtained from field-removed masonry specimens will
have many different sizes, shapes, and configurations. These variations are block firmly attached at the center of the upper head of the
a result of differing bonding arrangements, mortaring or joining practices, machine. The center of the sphere shall lie at the center of the
presence of reinforcement and other accessories in conjunction with the surface held in its spherical seat but shall be free to turn in any
masonry in service, and of techniques used to remove the specimens from direction, and its perimeter shall have at least 1⁄4 in. (6.3 mm)
wall assemblies. These variations may create non-uniform prism dimen-
sions along its length or in its cross-section. As such, additional measure-
clearance from the head to accommodate specimens whose
ments are often required to adequately document the condition of the bearing surfaces are not parallel. The diameter of the upper
prism and to communicate that condition to readers of the test report. platen (determined in accordance with A1.3) shall be at least 6
8.2 Net Cross-Sectional Area: in. (150 mm). A hardened metal bearing plate used beneath the
specimen is not required, but has been found to minimize wear
8.2.1 Constructed Prisms—Take the net cross-sectional area
of the lower platen of the machine.
of ungrouted prisms as the net cross-sectional area of masonry
10.1.1 When the bearing area of the upper platen or lower
units, determined from a representative sample of additional
platen is not sufficient to cover the area of the specimen, a
units tested in accordance with Test Methods C140 for concrete
single steel bearing plate with a thickness equal to at least the
masonry and with Test Methods C67 for clay masonry. If cut
distance from the edge of the platen to the most distant corner
units are used for prism construction, determine the net
of the specimen shall be placed between the platen and the
cross-sectional area from additional units cut in a similar
capped specimen. The length and width of the steel plate shall
manner. Determine net cross-sectional area of fully grouted
be at least 1⁄4 in. (6 mm) greater than the length and width of
prisms by multiplying the length and width of the prism (see
the prisms.
8.1).
10.1.2 The surfaces of the platen or plate intended for
NOTE 8—Net area determined by Test Methods C140 for hollow contact with the specimen shall have a hardness not less than
concrete units is usually slightly different from the minimum net cross- HRC 60 (BHN 620). The surfaces of the platen and plate shall
sectional area because unit face shells and webs are typically tapered.
not depart from plane surfaces by more than 0.001 in.
8.2.1.1 Consider clay masonry units whose net cross- (0.03 mm) in any 6-in. (150-mm) dimension.
sectional area is at least 75 % of the gross cross-sectional area NOTE 10—Annex A1 includes guidance on determining the required
as 100 % solid. plate thicknesses based on the configurations of the test specimen and the
test machine.
8.2.2 Prisms Obtained from Field-Removed Masonry NOTE 11—Research has shown that the thickness of bearing plates has
Specimens—Use methods identified above to determine net a significant effect on the tested compressive strength of masonry prisms
area if appropriate. Net area for prisms obtained from field- when the bearing area of the plate is not sufficient to cover the area of the
removed masonry specimens is considered to be minimum specimen. Plate bending results in nonuniform stress distributions that can
bearing area. If prisms are not of uniform length or width influence the failure mechanisms of the tested specimens. The magnitude
of this effect is controlled by the stiffness of the plate, the size of the
throughout the height of the specimen, or if mortared surfaces specimen tested, and the strength of the specimen. Tested compressive
are not fully bedded, use professional judgment to determine strengths will typically increase with increased plate thickness and with
the minimum bearing area that exists for the prism at whatever reduced distance to the furthest corner of the specimen. Some testing
location that occurs. laboratories have machine size limitations that limit the practicality of
eliminating plate bending entirely. Therefore, the plate thickness require-
NOTE 9—While constructed prisms are required to be fully-bedded with ments in 10.1 are intended to provide an adequate level of accuracy in the
mortar, prisms obtained from field-removed masonry specimens, particu- compression test results so as to conform to the limits of practicality of the
larly for hollow masonry, will often have only the face shells of the hollow testing laboratory.
units mortared. For such prisms, if any mortar on the top and bottom
bearing surfaces of the prisms are removed to result in full bearing across
10.2 Installing the Prism in the Test Machine—Wipe clean
the unit cross-section, the minimum cross-section will typically occur at the bearing faces of the platens, the bearing plates, and the test
an intermediate mortar bed joint. For face shell bedded sections, multi- specimen. Place the test specimen on the lower platen or
plying the measured length of the prism at the bed joint location by the bearing plate. Align both centroidal axes of the specimen with
sum of the face shell thicknesses can be an effective method for the center of thrust of the machine. As the spherically seated
determining minimum net bearing area. Because the face shells of hollow
units are often tapered, the thickness of the face shell above the mortar bed
upper platen or plate is brought to bear on the specimen, rotate
joint and below the mortar bed joint may differ. In such a case, use the the movable portion of the upper platen gently by hand so that
least face shell thickness of the two in the calculation. Obtaining access to uniform seating is obtained.
measure face shell thickness is often difficult or impossible. Measure-
ments of similar cross-sections from representative units or other parts of 10.3 Loading:
the prism is an option as is performing measurements after testing is 10.3.1 For constructed prisms, apply an initial load to the
performed. Refer to Test Methods C67 and C140 for recommended prism up to one-half of the expected total load at any

4
 C1314 − 16
convenient rate. Apply the remaining load at a uniform rate in 11.2.1 Calculate the hp/tp ratio for each prism using the
not less than 1 nor more than 2 min. The results of the first height and the least lateral dimension of that prism. Determine
specimen shall not be discarded so long as the actual loading the correction factor from Table 1. If a prism’s height to
time for the remaining portion of the actual load is greater than thickness ratio lies between the hp/tp values of Table 1,
30 s. determine the corresponding correction factor by linear inter-
10.3.2 For prisms obtained from field-removed masonry polation between the given values.
specimens, apply an initial load to the prisms up to one-fourth 11.2.2 Multiply the masonry prism strength by the correc-
of the expected load at any convenient rate. Apply the tion factor for the respective prism.
remaining load at a uniform rate in not less than 2 nor more 11.2.3 Calculate the compressive strength of masonry, fmt,
than 4 min. The results of the first specimen shall not be for each set of prisms by averaging the values obtained.
discarded so long as the actual loading time for the remaining
portion of the actual load is greater than 1 min. 12. Report
NOTE 12—The allowance for a loading rate on the first specimen
12.1 For constructed prisms, report the following informa-
outside of that required acknowledges that the expected load may be
different than the actual maximum load. The load rate for the remaining tion:
two specimens should be based on the first specimen results. 12.1.1 Name of parties responsible for prism construction,
10.3.3 If the mode of failure cannot be determined once the transport, and testing.
maximum load is reached, continue loading the specimen until 12.1.2 Designation of each prism tested and description of
the mode of failure is identifiable. Record the maximum load prism including width, height, and length dimensions; hp/tp
and note the mode of failure. ratio; mortar type; and grout and masonry unit used in the
construction.
10.4 Observations—Describe the mode of failure as fully as
possible or illustrate, or both, crack patterns and spalling on a 12.1.3 For field quality control or assurance, location of
sketch or photograph. Note whether failure occurred on one structure that corresponds to prisms as recorded in 5.1.
side or one end of the prism prior to fracture of the opposing 12.1.4 The maximum and minimum temperature experi-
side or end of the prism. Identify mode of failure using Fig. 4. enced by the prisms during the first 48 h after construction and
grouting.
11. Calculation 12.1.5 Age of prism at time of test.
11.1 Masonry Prism Strength—Calculate each masonry 12.1.6 Maximum compressive load sustained by each prism
prism strength by dividing each prism’s maximum compres- in pounds force or newtons.
sive load sustained by the net cross-sectional area of that prism, 12.1.7 Net cross-sectional area of each prism in square
and express the result to the nearest 10 psi (69 kPa). inches or square millimetres, and method used to calculate
11.1.1 Where sets of grouted and ungrouted prisms are area.
tested, calculate the masonry prism strength separately for the 12.1.8 Test observations for each prism in accordance with
grouted set and the ungrouted set. 10.4.
11.1.2 Where a set of prisms is tested for each wythe of a 12.1.9 Compression machine spherical head diameter (or
multi-wythe wall, calculate the masonry prism strength for projected diameter if applicable), upper bearing plate thickness
each wythe. requirement based on size of tested specimen, and thickness of
11.2 Compressive Strength of Masonry: upper bearing plate used.

FIG. 4 Sketches of Mode of Failure

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 C1314 − 16
TABLE 1 Height to Thickness Correction Factors for Masonry 12.2.5 Compression machine spherical head diameter (or
Prism Compressive Strength projected diameter if applicable), upper bearing plate thickness
hp/tpA 1.3 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 4.0 5.0 requirement based on size of tested specimen, and thickness of
Correction Factor 0.75 0.86 1.0 1.04 1.07 1.15 1.22
upper bearing plate used.
A
hp/tp—Ratio of prism height to least lateral dimension of prism.
12.2.6 Compression machine lower platen dimensions,
lower bearing plate thickness requirement based on size of
tested specimen, and thickness of lower bearing plate used.
12.2.7 Compressive strength of each prism calculated to the
12.1.10 Compression machine lower platen dimensions, nearest 10 psi or 69 kPa (see 11.1).
lower bearing plate thickness requirement based on size of 12.2.8 Compressive strength of masonry, fmt, for each set of
tested specimen, and thickness of lower bearing plate used. prisms calculated to the nearest 10 psi or 69 kPa (see 11.2).
12.1.11 Compressive strength of each prism calculated to
NOTE 13—Practices C1532 and C1587 include required report items
the nearest 10 psi or 69 kPa (see 11.1). related to selection, removal, and shipment of masonry specimens from
12.1.12 Compressive strength of masonry, fmt, for each set field construction as well as preparation of those specimens for compres-
of prisms calculated to the nearest 10 psi or 69 kPa (see 11.2). sion testing. Consider referencing those reports or including that informa-
tion on the C1314 report for field-removed masonry specimens.
12.2 For prisms obtained from field-removed masonry
specimens, report the following: 13. Precision and Bias
12.2.1 Name of the party conducting the testing. 13.1 Due to the variety of materials and combinations of
12.2.2 Name of parties responsible for prism removal, materials involved, no statement is made concerning the
transport and testing. precision or bias of this test method. Sufficient test data for all
12.2.3 Designation, photograph, and detailed description of materials and combinations of materials are not available to
the condition of each specimen prior to capping. Condition permit the development of precision and bias statements.
descriptions shall address all details that would influence
interpretation of results and shall include the following as a 14. Keywords
minimum: 14.1 compressive strength of masonry (f mt); masonry prism;
12.2.4 Test observations for each prism in accordance with masonry prism strength; masonry specimen; specified com-
10.4. pressive strength of masonry (f 'm)

ANNEX

(Mandatory Information)

A1. DETERMINING PLATE THICKNESS REQUIREMENTS FOR COMPRESSION TESTING

A1.1 Scope—This annex provides additional information to A1.4 Distance from Edge of Platen to Furthermost Corner
assist in determining the plate thickness requirements for of Test Specimen—Determine the distance from the edge of the
compression testing as written in 10.1. platen to the furthermost corner of the specimen as follows:
A1.2 Test Equipment—Fig. A1.1 shows the location of the A1.4.1 Locate the specimen’s center of mass, and mark it on
referenced test equipment as used in the compression testing of top of the specimen.
masonry prisms. A1.4.2 Determine to the nearest 1⁄8 in. (3 mm) the distance
from the center of mass of the specimen to the furthermost
A1.3 Determining the Diameter of the Upper Platen—As
corner or edge of the test specimen. Record this distance as A.
shown in Fig. A1.2, the diameter of the upper platen is
considered in this test method to be equal to the maximum A1.4.3 The distance from the platen to the furthermost
horizontal dimension measured across the circle created by the corner of the test specimen is obtained by the following
spherical portion of the upper platen (this measured diameter equation (see Fig. A1.3):
will often differ from the actual geometric diameter of the D PL
sphere based on its curvature). If the upper platen includes a d5A2
2
(A1.1)
non-spherical section that was manufactured integrally with the
spherical head from a single piece of steel, the diameter of the where:
upper platen is considered to be the diameter of the spherical d = distance from the platen to the furthermost corner of the
seat on the upper surface of the upper platen plus the thickness test specimen, in. (mm), and
of the non-spherical section (tPL). However, the diameter of the A = distance from the center of mass of the specimen to the
upper platen shall not be greater than the minimum horizontal furthermost corner of the test specimen, in. (mm).
dimension of the upper platen.

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 C1314 − 16

FIG. A1.1 Equipment Used for Compression Testing

where:
DSS = measured diameter of spherical seat,
DPL = calculated diameter of upper platen,
WPL = measured minimum width of upper platen, and
tPL = measured thickness of nonspherical section of upper platen.

FIG. A1.2 Diameter of the Upper Platen

APPENDIXES

FIG. A1.3 Distance from Platen to Furthermost Corner of Test Specimen

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 C1314 − 16
(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. SAMPLE TEST REPORT

X1.1 Fig. X1.1 is a sample test report.

X2. GUIDANCE ON THE USE OF C1314 FOR RESEARCH PURPOSES

FIG. X1.1 Sample Test Report

X2.1 Scope—Test Method C1314 was developed as a tool to construction and analysis to be considered by the researcher as
verify the properties of the materials being used in construction well as information that should be considered for inclusion in
to determine compliance with specified compressive strengths. a research report. The following suggestions are for guidance
The Significance and Use section also suggests that this only and should not be considered comprehensive nor appli-
method can be used as a basis for research purposes. This cable to all projects.
appendix provides additional guidance on aspects of materials,

8
 C1314 − 16
X2.2 Masonry Materials—The researcher should select ma- X2.2.4 Grout—Unless otherwise required, use coarse or fine
terials that are relevant to the purpose of the research. The grout in accordance with Specification C476 and unless other-
research should control those material properties whose effects wise required use the proportion method of Specification C476.
are being studied, and should permit representative variation of Alternatively, use the strength requirement method of specify-
other material properties. Use the following information to ing the grout in accordance with Specification C476 if a target
select materials and to determine properties of those materials grout strength is desired. If needed, prepare trial mixes to
used in the construction of the masonry prisms. determine the proportions of materials needed to produce the
X2.2.1 Masonry Units—Practice E105 includes random desired grout strength. Prior to mixing grout for construction of
sampling procedures as an alternative sampling method to test specimens, regardless of whether the proportion or strength
those of individual product test methods. Evaluation of the specification is used, verify that the specified proportions are
following unit properties is recommended as a minimum. used and controlled. Report the actual constituents and propor-
X2.2.1.1 Clay Masonry Units—Determine and report the tions used. Unless grout consistency is a variable being studied,
dimensions, percent void area, compressive strength, initial mix grout to a typical construction consistency, 8 to 11 in. (203
rate of absorption, and 5-h and 24-h absorption in accordance to 279 mm) slump. As a minimum, determine and report the
with Test Methods C67. Compare results to applicable unit following properties:
specification for classification and compliance. X2.2.4.1 Slump—Test Method C143/C143M.
X2.2.1.2 Concrete Masonry Units—Determine and report X2.2.4.2 Compressive Strength—Test Method C1019.
the dimensions, net area, absorption, density and compressive
strength in accordance with Test Methods C140. Compare X2.3 Handling and Curing:
results to applicable unit specification for classification and
compliance. X2.3.1 Construct and store the prisms as required in this
standard. If curing methods are not a variable of the research,
X2.2.2 Mortar—Unless otherwise required, use one of the
when prisms are not curing in plastic bags in accordance with
types of mortar specified in Specification C270 and unless
this standard, store the prisms in an area with a temperature of
otherwise required, use the proportion specification of Speci-
75 6 15°F (24 6 8°C) and a relative humidity of 30 to 70 %,
fication C270. If, however, the property specification of Speci-
and that is free of drafts.
fication C270 is used, establish mix proportions by determining
physical properties of the laboratory mixed mortar at specified X2.3.2 Monitor and report the temperature and relative
flow in accordance with procedures of Specification C270. humidity of the curing environment throughout the curing time
Prior to mixing mortar for construction of test specimens, period.
regardless of whether the proportion or property specification
is used, verify that the specified or established proportions are X2.4 Testing Multiple Wythe Prisms—Apply suitable sensi-
used and controlled. Report the actual constituents and propor- tive gages transversely across the collar joint at the midheight
tions used. Unless mortar consistency is a variable being of the specimen to detect the formation of cracks in the plane
studied, mix mortar to typical construction consistency. Report of the collar joint. (Bonded wire gages have been found to be
how, when, and from where mortar is sampled. As a minimum, suitable for these purposes.) The measurements of transverse
determine and report the following mortar properties. strain across collar joints in double or multi-wythe walls are
X2.2.2.1 Consistency—Test Method C780, Annex A1. essential to determine whether a plane of weakness exists along
X2.2.2.2 Air Content—Test Method C780, Annex A5. a continuous vertical joint, such as a collar joint, that may
X2.2.2.3 Compressive Strength—Test Method C780, Annex develop significant tensile strains indicating potential prema-
A6. ture cracking. Report measured strains.
X2.2.3 Mortar Aggregates:
X2.2.3.1 Sand Moisture Content—Prior to batching, deter- X2.5 Determination of Modulus of Elasticity—When
mine and report the moisture content of the sand. Calculate the required, determine the chord modulus in accordance with Test
amount of water included in the sand. If necessary, adjust sand Method E111. Follow the designated method to the greatest
weights to achieve desired volume proportions of materials. extent possible. Plot the values and determine and report the
Report any adjustments that were made to sand weights to chord modulus of elasticity for suitable values of stress and
account for sand moisture. strain using end points of 0.05 and 0.33 of the maximum
X2.2.3.2 Sieve Analysis—Determine and report the grada- compressive stress of each prism. In the case of double-wythe
tion of the sand using Test Method C136. Compare gradation walls, also plot the compressive stress versus the transverse
to requirements of Specification C144. strain measured across the collar joint.

9
 C1314 − 16
SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee C15 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(C1314 – 14) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved June 1, 2016.)

(1) Revised 2.1 and 3.1 to add a reference to masonry termi- (2) Modified 5.1 and 5.9.4 to address construction of prisms
nology standards. with open ends.

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