Designation: C 1314 – 07

Standard Test Method for

Compressive Strength of Masonry Prisms1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C 1314; 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 (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope* C 780 Test Method for Preconstruction and Construction

1.1 This test method covers procedures for masonry prism Evaluation of Mortars for Plain and Reinforced Unit
construction and testing, and procedures for determining the Masonry
compressive strength of masonry, fmt, used to determine C 1019 Test Method for Sampling and Testing Grout
compliance with the specified compressive strength of ma- C 1093 Practice for Accreditation of Testing Agencies for
sonry, f 8m. When this test method is used for research Masonry
purposes, the construction and test procedures within serve as C 1532 Practice for Selection, Removal, and Shipment of
a guideline and provide control parameters. Manufactured Masonry Units and Masonry Specimens
1.2 This test method also covers procedures for determining from Existing Construction
the compressive strength of prisms obtained from field- C 1552 Practice for Capping Concrete Masonry Units, Re-
removed masonry specimens. lated Units and Masonry Prisms for Compression Testing
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded C 1587 Practice for Preparation of Field Removed Manu-
as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for factured Masonry Units and Masonry Specimens for Com-
information only. pressive Strength Testing
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the E 105 Practice for Probability Sampling Of Materials
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the E 111 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- 3. Terminology
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
3.1 Definitions:
2. Referenced Documents 3.1.1 set—a set consists of at least three prisms constructed
2.1 ASTM Standards: 2 of the same material and tested at the same age.
C 67 Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and 3.2 Notations:
Structural Clay Tile 3.2.1 f 8m—specified compressive strength of masonry.
C 136 Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse 3.2.2 fmt—compressive strength of masonry.
Aggregates 3.2.3 hp—prism height.
C 140 Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete 3.2.4 tp—least actual lateral dimension of prism.
Masonry Units and Related Units
4. Significance and Use
C 143/C 143M Test Method for Slump of Hydraulic-
Cement Concrete 4.1 This test method provides a means of verifying that
C 144 Specification for Aggregate for Masonry Mortar masonry materials used in construction result in masonry that
C 270 Specification for Mortar for Unit Masonry meets the specified compressive strength.
C 476 Specification for Grout for Masonry 4.2 This test method provides a means of evaluating com-
pressive strength characteristics of in-place masonry construc-
tion through testing of prisms obtained from that construction
when sampled in accordance with Practice C 1532. Decisions
1
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C15 on made in preparing such field-removed prisms for testing,
Manufactured Masonry Units and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
C15.04 on Research. determining the net area, and interpreting the results of
Current edition approved June 1, 2007. Published August 2007. Originally compression tests require professional judgment.
approved in 1995. Last previous edition approved in 2003 as C 1314 – 03b.
2
4.3 If this test method is used as a guideline for performing
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
research to determine the effects of various prism construction
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on or test parameters on the compressive strength of masonry,
the ASTM website. deviations from this test method shall be reported. Such

*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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 C 1314 – 07
research prisms shall not be used to verify compliance with a
specified compressive strength of masonry.
NOTE 1—The testing laboratory performing this test method should be
evaluated in accordance with Practice C 1093.
4.3.1 Appendix X2 includes guidance information for the
researcher on aspects of materials, construction, and analysis.

5. Masonry Prism Construction

5.1 Construct prisms of units representative of those used in
the construction. If units have flutes or ribs that project 1⁄2 in.
(12.5 mm) or more from the surface of the unit, remove those
flutes or ribs by saw cutting flush with the surface of the unit
at the base of the flute or rib.
5.2 Construct a set of prisms for each combination of
materials and each test age at which the compressive strength
of masonry is to be determined.
5.3 Build each prism in an opened, moisture-tight bag large
enough to enclose and seal the completed prism. Construct
prisms on a flat, level base. Construct prisms in a location FIG. 2 Reduction of Hollow Units Prior to Prism Construction
where they will remain undisturbed until transported for
testing. length prisms is encouraged.
5.4 Construct prisms as shown in Fig. 1 with units laid in
5.6 Build masonry prisms with full mortar beds (mortar all
stack bond in stretcher position. Orient units in the prism as in
webs and face shells of hollow units). Use mortar representa-
the corresponding construction. At the time of prism construc-
tive of that used in the corresponding construction. Use mortar
tion, the surfaces of the units shall be free of moisture. Where
joint thickness and a method of positioning and aligning units,
the corresponding construction is of multi-wythe masonry
that are representative of the corresponding construction. Use
having wythes composed of different units or mortar, build
mortar joints that are cut flush. For prisms to be grouted,
prisms representative of each different wythe and test sepa-
remove mortar “fins” that protrude into the grout space.
rately.
5.7 Build prisms a minimum of two units high with a
5.5 Build prisms with full-size or reduced length units. Any
height-to-thickness ratio, hp/tp, between 1.3 and 5.0.
required saw cutting shall be performed on units prior to prism
5.8 Immediately following the construction of the prism,
construction. The moisture content(s) of units used to construct
seal the moisture-tight bag around the prism.
prisms shall be representative of those used in construction.
5.9 Grouted Prisms.
Prisms composed of units that contain closed cells shall have at
5.9.1 Where the corresponding construction is to be solidly
least one complete cell with one full-width cross web on either
grouted, solidly grout the prisms not less than 24 h nor more
end (see Fig. 2). Prisms composed of units without closed cells
than 48 h following the construction of the prisms. Use grout
shall have as symmetrical a cross section as possible. The
representative of that used in the corresponding construction.
minimum length of prisms shall be 4 in. (100 mm).
Before placing grout, remove mortar droppings from the grout
NOTE 2—When using larger masonry units, experience has shown that space. Use grout consolidation and reconsolidation procedures
reducing the length of these units prior to prism construction makes their representative of those used in the construction. Place addi-
handling and transportation easier. Thus, these reduced length unit prisms tional grout into the prisms as necessary after each consolida-
are less likely to be damaged and are more likely to be properly capped
and tested. Also, the smaller prism will be less likely to be affected by
tion. Screed off excess and finish the grout so that it is level
plate bending effects during testing, as described in Note 7, and will with the top of the prism and in contact with the units at the
therefore provide a more accurate assessment of the strength of the perimeter of the grout space. Grouted prisms shall contain no
materials in the masonry prism. For these reasons, the use of reduced reinforcement.

FIG. 1 Masonry Prism Construction

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 C 1314 – 07
5.9.2 Where the corresponding construction is to be par-
tially grouted, construct two sets of prisms; grout one set solid
as described in 5.9.1 and leave the other set ungrouted.
5.9.3 Where open-end units or prisms containing grout
between similar wythes are to be grouted, use similar masonry
units as forms to confine the grout during placement. Brace
forms to prevent displacement during grouting. Grout as
described in 5.9.1.
5.9.4 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.
FIG. 3 Prism Measurement Location
6. Obtaining and Transporting Masonry Prisms
6.1 For field-removed masonry specimens, select and re-
move specimens in accordance with Practice C 1532. width by averaging the four measurements of each dimension.
6.2 Prior to transporting constructed prisms and field- Measure the height of the prism at the center of each face to the
removed masonry specimens, strap or clamp each prism or nearest 0.05 in. (1 mm). Determine the height by averaging the
specimen to prevent damage during handling and transporta- four measurements.
tion. Secure prisms and specimens to prevent jarring, bounc- 8.1.1 For prisms obtained from field-removed masonry
ing, or tipping over during transporting. specimens, perform additional measurements as needed to
6.3 Transport prisms and masonry specimens in accordance document the condition and dimensions of the specimen.
with Practice C 1532.
6.4 For field-removed masonry specimens, after the speci- NOTE 3—Prisms obtained from field-removed masonry specimens will
have many different sizes, shapes, and configurations. These variations are
mens have been transported to the laboratory, obtain prisms
a result of differing bonding arrangements, mortaring or joining practices,
from the masonry specimens using procedures outlined in presence of reinforcement and other accessories in conjunction with the
Practice C 1587. masonry in service, and of techniques used to remove the specimens from
wall assemblies. These variations may create non-uniform prism dimen-
7. Curing sions along its length or in its cross-section. As such, additional measure-
ments are often required to adequately document the condition of the
7.1 After the initial 48 h of curing for constructed prisms, prism and to communicate that condition to readers of the test report.
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 8.2 Net Cross-Sectional Area:
moisture-tight bags and continue storing at a temperature of 75 8.2.1 Constructed Prisms—Take the net cross-sectional area
6 15°F (24 6 8°C) and a relative humidity less than 80 %. of ungrouted prisms as the net cross-sectional area of masonry
7.2 For prisms obtained from field-removed masonry, store units, determined by measurement or from a representative
within the laboratory at a temperature of 75 6 15°F (24 6 8°C) sample of units tested in accordance with Test Methods C 140
and a relative humidity less than 80 % for at least two days for concrete masonry and with Test Methods C 67 for clay
prior to testing. masonry. If cut units are used for prism construction, determine
7.3 Prisms shall not be oven-dried or otherwise exposed to the net cross-sectional area from additional units cut in a
temperatures exceeding storage temperature requirements at similar manner. Determine net cross-sectional area of fully
any time prior to testing. grouted prisms by multiplying the length and width of the
7.4 Visible moisture shall not be present on the surface of prism (see 8.1).
the prisms at the time of testing. Extend storage time as needed NOTE 4—Net area determined by Test Methods C 140 for hollow
to ensure dry surface conditions of the prisms at the time of concrete units is usually slightly different from the minimum net cross-
testing. sectional area because unit face shells and webs are typically tapered.
7.5 Test prisms at an age of 28 days or at the designated test 8.2.1.1 Consider clay masonry units whose net cross-
ages. Test a set of prisms at each age. Prism age shall be sectional area is at least 75 % of the gross cross-sectional area
determined from the time of laying units for ungrouted prisms, as 100 % solid.
and from the time of grouting for grouted prisms. 8.2.2 Prisms Obtained from Field-Removed Masonry
Specimens—Use methods identified above to determine net
8. Measurements and Determination of Net Area area if appropriate. Net area for prisms obtained from field-
8.1 Measuring Prisms—As shown in Fig. 3, measure the removed masonry specimens is considered to be minimum
length and width at the edges of the top and bottom faces of the bearing area. If prisms are not of uniform length or width
prisms to the nearest 0.05 in. (1 mm). Determine the length and throughout the height of the specimen, or if mortared surfaces

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 C 1314 – 07
are not fully bedded, use professional judgment to determine of this effect is controlled by the stiffness of the plate, the size of the
the minimum bearing area that exists for the prism at whatever specimen tested, and the strength of the specimen. Tested compressive
location that occurs. strengths will typically increase with increased plate thickness and with
reduced distance to the furthest corner of the specimen. Some testing
NOTE 5—While constructed prisms are required to be fully-bedded with laboratories have machine size limitations that limit the practicality of
mortar, prisms obtained from field-removed masonry specimens, particu- eliminating plate bending entirely. Therefore, the plate thickness require-
larly for hollow masonry, will often have only the face shells of the hollow ments in 10.1 are intended to provide an adequate level of accuracy in the
units mortared. For such prisms, if any mortar on the top and bottom compression test results so as to conform to the limits of practicality of the
bearing surfaces of the prisms are removed to result in full bearing across testing laboratory.
the unit cross-section, the minimum cross-section will typically occur at
an intermediate mortar bed joint. For face shell bedded sections, multi- 10.2 Installing the Prism in the Test Machine—Wipe clean
plying the measured length of the prism at the bed joint location by the the bearing faces of the platens, the bearing plates, and the test
sum of the face shell thicknesses can be an effective method for specimen. Place the test specimen on the lower platen or
determining minimum net bearing area. Because the face shells of hollow bearing plate. Align both centroidal axes of the specimen with
units are often tapered, the thickness of the face shell above the mortar bed the center of thrust of the machine. As the spherically seated
joint and below the mortar bed joint may differ. In such a case, use the upper platen or plate is brought to bear on the specimen, rotate
least face shell thickness of the two in the calculation. Obtaining access to
measure face shell thickness is often difficult or impossible. Measure-
the movable portion of the upper platen gently by hand so that
ments of similar cross-sections from representative units or other parts of uniform seating is obtained.
the prism is an option as is performing measurements after testing is 10.3 Loading:
performed. Refer to Test Methods C 67 and C 140 for recommended 10.3.1 For constructed prisms, apply an initial load to the
methods of measuring face shell thickness. prism up to one-half of the expected total load at any
convenient rate. Apply the remaining load at a uniform rate in
9. Capping
not less than 1 nor more than 2 min.
9.1 Capping Prisms—Cap prisms in accordance with Prac- 10.3.2 For prisms obtained from field-removed masonry
tice C 1552. specimens, apply an initial load to the prisms up to one-fourth
of the expected load at any convenient rate. Apply the
10. Procedure remaining load at a uniform rate in not less than 2 nor more
10.1 Test Apparatus—The test machine shall have an accu- than 4 min.
racy of plus or minus 1.0 % over the anticipated load range. 10.3.3 If the mode of failure cannot be determined once the
The upper platen shall be a spherically seated, hardened metal maximum load is reached, continue loading the specimen until
block firmly attached at the center of the upper head of the the mode of failure is identifiable. Record the maximum load
machine. The center of the sphere shall lie at the center of the and note the mode of failure.
surface held in its spherical seat but shall be free to turn in any 10.4 Observations—Describe the mode of failure as fully as
direction, and its perimeter shall have at least 1⁄4 in. (6.3 mm) possible or illustrate, or both, crack patterns and spalling on a
clearance from the head to accommodate specimens whose sketch or photograph. Note whether failure occurred on one
bearing surfaces are not parallel. The diameter of the upper side or one end of the prism prior to fracture of the opposing
platen (determined in accordance with A1.3) shall be at least 6 side or end of the prism. Identify mode of failure using Fig. 4.
in. (150 mm). A hardened metal bearing plate used beneath the
specimen is not required, but has been found to minimize wear 11. Calculation
of the lower platen of the machine. 11.1 Masonry Prism Strength—Calculate each masonry
10.1.1 When the bearing area of the upper platen or lower prism strength by dividing each prism’s maximum compres-
platen is not sufficient to cover the area of the specimen, a sive load sustained by the net cross-sectional area of that prism,
single steel bearing plate with a thickness equal to at least the and express the result to the nearest 10 psi (69 kPa).
distance from the edge of the platen to the most distant corner 11.1.1 Where sets of grouted and ungrouted prisms are
of the specimen shall be placed between the platen and the tested, calculate the masonry prism strength separately for the
capped specimen. The length and width of the steel plate shall grouted set and the ungrouted set.
be at least 1⁄4 in. (6 mm) greater than the length and width of
11.1.2 Where a set of prisms is tested for each wythe of a
the prisms.
multi-wythe wall, calculate the masonry prism strength for
10.1.2 The surfaces of the platen or plate intended for
each wythe.
contact with the specimen shall have a hardness not less than
11.2 Compressive Strength of Masonry:
HRC 60 (BHN 620). The surfaces of the platen and plate shall
11.2.1 Calculate the hp/tp ratio for each prism using the
not depart from plane surfaces by more than 0.001 in. (0.03
height and the least lateral dimension of that prism. Determine
mm) in any 6-in. (150-mm) dimension.
the correction factor from Table 1. If a prism’s height to
NOTE 6—Annex A1 includes guidance on determining the required thickness ratio lies between the hp/tp values of Table 1,
plate thicknesses based on the configurations of the test specimen and the determine the corresponding correction factor by linear inter-
test machine. polation between the given values.
NOTE 7—Research has shown that the thickness of bearing plates has a
significant effect on the tested compressive strength of masonry prisms
11.2.2 Multiply the masonry prism strength by the correc-
when the bearing area of the plate is not sufficient to cover the area of the tion factor for the respective prism.
specimen. Plate bending results in nonuniform stress distributions that can 11.2.3 Calculate the compressive strength of masonry, fmt,
influence the failure mechanisms of the tested specimens. The magnitude for each set of prisms by averaging the values obtained.

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 C 1314 – 07

FIG. 4 Sketches of Mode of Failure

TABLE 1 Height to Thickness Correction Factors for Masonry 12.2.1 Name of the party conducting the testing.
Prism Compressive Strength
12.2.2 Name of parties responsible for prism removal,
hp/tpA 1.3 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 4.0 5.0 transport and testing.
Correction Factor 0.75 0.86 1.0 1.04 1.07 1.15 1.22
A
12.2.3 Designation, photograph, and detailed description of
hp/tp—Ratio of prism height to least lateral dimension of prism.
the condition of each specimen prior to capping. Condition
descriptions shall address all details that would influence
12. Report interpretation of results and shall include the following as a
12.1 For constructed prisms, report the following informa- minimum:
tion: 12.2.4 Test observations for each prism in accordance with
12.1.1 Name of parties responsible for prism construction, 10.4.
transport, and testing. 12.2.5 Compression machine spherical head diameter (or
12.1.2 Designation of each prism tested and description of projected diameter if applicable), upper bearing plate thickness
prism including width, height, and length dimensions; hp/tp requirement based on size of tested specimen, and thickness of
ratio; mortar type; and grout and masonry unit used in the upper bearing plate used.
construction. 12.2.6 Compression machine lower platen dimensions,
12.1.3 The maximum and minimum temperature experi- lower bearing plate thickness requirement based on size of
enced by the prisms during the first 48 h after construction and tested specimen, and thickness of lower bearing plate used.
grouting. 12.2.7 Compressive strength of each prism calculated to the
12.1.4 Age of prism at time of test. nearest 10 psi or 69 kPa (see 11.1).
12.1.5 Maximum compressive load sustained by each prism
12.2.8 Compressive strength of masonry, fmt, for each set of
in pounds force or newtons.
prisms calculated to the nearest 10 psi or 69 kPa (see 11.2).
12.1.6 Net cross-sectional area of each prism in square
inches or square millimetres, and method used to calculate NOTE 8—Practices C 1532 and C 1587 include required report items
area. related to selection, removal, and shipment of masonry specimens from
12.1.7 Test observations for each prism in accordance with field construction as well as preparation of those specimens for compres-
sion testing. Consider referencing those reports or including that informa-
10.4.
tion on the C 1314 report for field-removed masonry specimens.
12.1.8 Compression machine spherical head diameter (or
projected diameter if applicable), upper bearing plate thickness 13. Precision and Bias
requirement based on size of tested specimen, and thickness of
upper bearing plate used. 13.1 Due to the variety of materials and combinations of
12.1.9 Compression machine lower platen dimensions, materials involved, no statement is made concerning the
lower bearing plate thickness requirement based on size of precision or bias of this test method. Sufficient test data for all
tested specimen, and thickness of lower bearing plate used. materials and combinations of materials are not available to
12.1.10 Compressive strength of each prism calculated to permit the development of precision and bias statements.
the nearest 10 psi or 69 kPa (see 11.1).
12.1.11 Compressive strength of masonry, fmt, for each set 14. Keywords
of prisms calculated to the nearest 10 psi or 69 kPa (see 11.2). 14.1 compressive strength of masonry; masonry prism;
12.2 For prisms obtained from field-removed masonry masonry prism strength; masonry specimen; specified com-
specimens, report the following: pressive strength of masonry

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 C 1314 – 07

ANNEX

(Mandatory Information)

A1. DETERMINING PLATE THICKNESS REQUIREMENTS FOR COMPRESSION TESTING

A1.1 Scope—This annex provides additional information to dimension of the upper platen.
assist in determining the plate thickness requirements for
A1.4 Distance from Edge of Platen to Furthermost Corner
compression testing as written in 10.1.
of Test Specimen—Determine the distance from the edge of the
A1.2 Test Equipment—Fig. A1.1 shows the location of the platen to the furthermost corner of the specimen as follows:
referenced test equipment as used in the compression testing of A1.4.1 Locate the specimen’s center of mass, and mark it on
masonry prisms. top of the specimen.
A1.4.2 Determine to the nearest 1⁄8 in. (3 mm) the distance
A1.3 Determining the Diameter of the Upper Platen—As from the center of mass of the specimen to the furthermost
shown in Fig. A1.2, the diameter of the upper platen is corner or edge of the test specimen. Record this distance as A.
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 DPL
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
seat on the upper surface of the upper platen plus the thickness the 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).

FIG. A1.1 Equipment Used for Compression Testing

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 C 1314 – 07

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

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

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 C 1314 – 07

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. SAMPLE TEST REPORT

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

FIG. X1.1 Sample Test Report

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 C 1314 – 07

X2. GUIDANCE ON THE USE OF C 1314 FOR RESEARCH PURPOSES

X2.1 Scope—Test Method C 1314 was developed as a tool X2.2.2.3 Compressive Strength
to verify the properties of the materials being used in construc- Test Method C 780, Annex A6
tion to determine compliance with specified compressive X2.2.3 Mortar Aggregates
strengths. The Significance and Use section also suggests that X2.2.3.1 Sand Moisture Content
this method can be used as a basis for research purposes. This Prior to batching, determine and report the moisture content
appendix provides additional guidance on aspects of materials, of the sand. Calculate the amount of water included in the sand.
construction and analysis to be considered by the researcher as If necessary, adjust sand weights to achieve desired volume
well as information that should be considered for inclusion in proportions of materials. Report any adjustments that were
a research report. The following suggestions are for guidance made to sand weights to account for sand moisture.
only and should not be considered comprehensive nor appli- X2.2.3.2 Sieve Analysis
cable to all projects. Determine and report the gradation of the sand using Test
Method C 136. Compare gradation to requirements of Speci-
X2.2 Masonry Materials—The researcher should select ma- fication C 144.
terials that are relevant to the purpose of the research. The X2.2.4 Grout
research should control those material properties whose effects Unless otherwise required, use coarse or fine grout in
are being studied, and should permit representative variation of accordance with Specification C 476 and unless otherwise
other material properties. Use the following information to required use the proportion method of Specification C 476.
select materials and to determine properties of those materials Alternatively, use the strength requirement method of specify-
used in the construction of the masonry prisms. ing the grout in accordance with Specification C 476 if a target
X2.2.1 Masonry Units grout strength is desired. If needed, prepare trial mixes to
Practice E 105 includes random sampling procedures as an determine the proportions of materials needed to produce the
alternative sampling method to those of individual product test desired grout strength. Prior to mixing grout for construction of
methods. Evaluation of the following unit properties is recom- test specimens, regardless of whether the proportion or strength
mended as a minimum. specification is used, verify that the specified proportions are
X2.2.1.1 Clay Masonry Units used and controlled. Report the actual constituents and propor-
Determine and report the dimensions, percent void area, tions used. Unless grout consistency is a variable being studied,
compressive strength, initial rate of absorption, and 5-h and mix grout to a typical construction consistency, 8 to 11 in. (203
24-h absorption in accordance with Test Methods C 67. Com- to 279 mm) slump. As a minimum, determine and report the
pare results to applicable unit specification for classification following properties:
and compliance. X2.2.4.1 Slump
X2.2.1.2 Concrete Masonry Units Test Method C 143/C 143M.
Determine and report the dimensions, net area, absorption, X2.2.4.2 Compressive Strength
density and compressive strength in accordance with Test Test Method C 1019.
Methods C 140. Compare results to applicable unit specifica-
tion for classification and compliance. X2.3 Handling and Curing:
X2.2.2 Mortar X2.3.1 Construct and store the prisms as required in this
Unless otherwise required, use one of the types of mortar standard. If curing methods are not a variable of the research,
specified in Specification C 270 and unless otherwise required, when prisms are not curing in plastic bags in accordance with
use the proportion specification of Specification C 270. If, this standard, store the prisms in an area with a temperature of
however, the property specification of Specification C 270 is 75 6 15 °F (24 6 8 °C) and a relative humidity of 30 to 70 %,
used, establish mix proportions by determining physical prop- and that is free of drafts.
erties of the laboratory mixed mortar at specified flow in X2.3.2 Monitor and report the temperature and relative
accordance with procedures of Specification C 270. Prior to humidity of the curing environment throughout the curing time
mixing mortar for construction of test specimens, regardless of period.
whether the proportion or property specification is used, verify
that the specified or established proportions are used and X2.4 Testing Multiple Wythe Prisms—Apply suitable sen-
controlled. Report the actual constituents and proportions used. sitive gages transversely across the collar joint at the midheight
Unless mortar consistency is a variable being studied, mix of the specimen to detect the formation of cracks in the plane
mortar to typical construction consistency. Report how, when, of the collar joint. (Bonded wire gages have been found to be
and from where mortar is sampled. As a minimum, determine suitable for these purposes.) The measurements of transverse
and report the following mortar properties. strain across collar joints in double or multi-wythe walls are
X2.2.2.1 Consistency essential to determine whether a plane of weakness exists along
Test Method C 780, Annex A1 a continuous vertical joint, such as a collar joint, that may
X2.2.2.2 Air Content develop significant tensile strains indicating potential prema-
Test Method C 780, Annex A5 ture cracking. Report measured strains.

9
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 C 1314 – 07
X2.5 Determination of Modulus of Elasticity—When re- strain using end points of 0.05 and 0.33 of the maximum
quired, determine the chord modulus in accordance with Test compressive stress of each prism. In the case of double-wythe
Method E 111. Follow the designated method to the greatest walls, also plot the compressive stress versus the transverse
extent possible. Plot the values and determine and report the strain measured across the collar joint.
chord modulus of elasticity for suitable values of stress and

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee C15 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(C 1314 – 03b) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved June 1, 2007.)

(1) The scope of the method was expanded to cover proce- notably with the inclusions of a new Section 8, Measurements
dures for determining the compressive strength of prisms and Determination of Net Area, which addresses both con-
obtained from field-removed masonry specimens. This change structed and field-removed assemblies.
in scope resulted in revisions throughout the standard, most

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