ASTM C183/C183M-23

Standard Practice for Sampling and the Amount of Testing of Hydraulic Cement

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 The sampling procedures described are intended for use in the procurement of samples of hydraulic cement after it has been manufactured and is ready to be offered for sale. They are not intended as sampling procedures for quality control purposes during manufacturing. The testing procedures outlined cover the amount of testing to be done and provide guidance for reporting on conformance or non-conformance of cements with requirements of purchase specifications.  
4.2 This practice is referenced as the procedure for sampling natural cement (Specification C10/C10M), masonry cement (Specification C91/C91M), portland cement (Specification C150/C150M), blended hydraulic cement (Specification C595/C595M), expansive hydraulic cement (Specification C845/C845M), hydraulic cement based on a performance specification (Specification C1157/C1157M), plastic stucco cement (Specification C1328/C1328M), and mortar cement (Specification C1329/C1329M), and  
4.3 Most building codes and construction specifications require that hydraulic cement to be used in the work meet the applicable requirements of the relevant purchase specifications, such as Specifications C10/C10M, C91/C91M, C150/C150M, C595/C595M, C1157/C1157M, C1328/C1328M, C1329/C1329M, or C845/C845M. If the code or specification requires sampling of the manufactured cement, the provisions given in 4.4 are applicable. Not much cement is sold on the basis of such sampling and testing. A useful discussion of sampling and testing cement is contained in ACI 225.1R.  
4.4 The procedures covered in this practice should be done by or for purchasers of hydraulic cement who are using a code or specification that requires sampling and testing to determine if the samples conform to the relevant acceptance specifications. The testing is done using specified methods to determine whether the samples yield test results that conform to the specification, and the tests serve as a basis for acceptance or rejection of the lot of material ...
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers procedures for sampling and for the amount of testing of hydraulic cement after it has been manufactured and is ready to be offered for sale.  
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 Standard IEEE/ASTM SI 10, Values are stated in only SI units when inch-pound units are not used in practice  
1.3 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered requirements of the standard.  
1.4 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.  
1.5 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.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-May-2023
• ICS: 91.100.10 - Cement. Gypsum. Lime. Mortar
• Technical Committee: C01 - Cement
• Drafting Committee: C01.95 - Coordination of Standards

Relations

• Refers: ASTM C1038/C1038M-24 - Standard Test Method for Expansion of Hydraulic Cementitious Material Mortar Bars Stored in Water
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2024
• Refers: ASTM C1012/C1012M-24 - Standard Test Method for Length Change of Hydraulic-Cement Mortars Exposed to a Sulfate Solution
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2024
• Refers: ASTM C10/C10M-24 - Standard Specification for Natural Cement
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM C204-24 - Standard Test Methods for Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by Air-Permeability Apparatus
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM C109/C109M-23 - Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Hydraulic Cement Mortars (Using 50 mm [2 in.] Cube Specimens)
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM C806-23 - Standard Test Method for Restrained Expansion of Expansive Cement Mortar
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM C151/C151M-23 - Standard Test Method for Autoclave Expansion of Hydraulic Cement
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM C114-23 - Standard Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic Cement
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Refers: ASTM C185-20 - Standard Test Method for Air Content of Hydraulic Cement Mortar
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM C1038/C1038M-19 - Standard Test Method for Expansion of Hydraulic Cement Mortar Bars Stored in Water
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2019
• Refers: ASTM C185-19 - Standard Test Method for Air Content of Hydraulic Cement Mortar
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2019
• Refers: ASTM C10/C10M-19 - Standard Specification for Natural Cement
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2019
• Refers: ASTM C150/C150M-19 - Standard Specification for Portland Cement
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM C1012/C1012M-18b - Standard Test Method for Length Change of Hydraulic-Cement Mortars Exposed to a Sulfate Solution
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2018
• Refers: ASTM C451-18 - Standard Test Method for Early Stiffening of Hydraulic Cement (Paste Method)
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2018

Overview

ASTM C183/C183M-23 is the internationally recognized standard practice detailing procedures for sampling and the amount of testing of hydraulic cement after manufacture and before sale. Established and maintained by ASTM International, this standard ensures that sampling and testing are performed consistently, supporting reliable assessment of whether hydraulic cements comply with specified purchase requirements. ASTM C183/C183M-23 is widely referenced in codes and specifications and is crucial for verifying cement quality for commercial use, but is not intended for process quality control during production.

Key Topics

• Scope of Application

  • Covers hydraulic cements such as natural cement, masonry cement, portland cement, blended hydraulic cement, expansive hydraulic cement, performance-specified cement, stucco cement, and mortar cement.
  • Applicable after manufacture and before sale.

• Sampling Procedures

  • Defines methods for taking representative samples from bulk storage, shipments, and packaged cement.
  • Stipulates sample size (minimum 5 kg / 10 lb) and details for grab and composite samples.
  • Emphasizes packaging methods to preserve sample integrity by preventing moisture absorption and aeration.

• Testing Requirements

  • Specifies amount and frequency of testing, including normal and reduced testing rates based on quality history.
  • Lists associated test methods for properties such as fineness, strength, setting time, expansion, and sulfate resistance.
  • Provides guidance on establishing a quality history and the use of control charts for ongoing monitoring of cement properties.

• Reporting and Nonconformance

  • Details when cement is deemed compliant or noncompliant with purchase specifications.
  • Includes retesting procedures and the use of referee methods where applicable.
  • Requires explicit reporting of failed requirements and applicable specification limits in cases of nonconformance.

• Units and Safety

  • Supports use of SI or inch-pound units, to be used independently.
  • Addresses safety and regulatory compliance, emphasizing the responsibility of users for implementing appropriate safety and environmental practices.

Applications

ASTM C183/C183M-23 is essential across the construction and building materials industry for:

• Verifying Purchase Compliance: Ensures that hydraulic cements delivered for commercial or public projects meet contractual and specification requirements.
• Building Code Conformance: Provides recognized procedures needed to meet the requirements of most building codes regarding cement acceptance.
• Quality Documentation: Supplies the basis for transparent reporting, acceptance, or rejection of cement lots using statistically based testing and control chart methods.
• Third-party and Buyer Verification: Empowers purchasers, independent labs, and agencies to objectively assess cement quality prior to use in construction.
• Regulatory and Contractual Assurance: Used for documentation in procurement contracts and regulatory submissions.

Related Standards

ASTM C183/C183M-23 is frequently used alongside the following industry standards:

• ASTM C109/C109M: Test Method for Compressive Strength of Hydraulic Cement Mortars
• ASTM C114: Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic Cement
• ASTM C150/C150M: Specification for Portland Cement
• ASTM C595/C595M: Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
• ASTM C845/C845M: Specification for Expansive Hydraulic Cement
• ASTM C1157/C1157M: Performance Specification for Hydraulic Cement
• ASTM C1328/C1328M: Specification for Plastic (Stucco) Cement
• ASTM C1329/C1329M: Specification for Mortar Cement
• IEEE/ASTM SI 10: Standard for SI units and conversions

For a comprehensive overview of cement testing procedures and further industry context, refer to the “Manual of Cement Testing” in the Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.01.

Keywords: ASTM C183, hydraulic cement sampling, cement testing, construction materials, cement quality, standard practice, ASTM standards, building materials compliance.

Standards Content (Sample)

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.
Designation: C183/C183M − 23
Standard Practice for
Sampling and the Amount of Testing of Hydraulic Cement
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C183/C183M; 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.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope* 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This practice covers procedures for sampling and for the
amount of testing of hydraulic cement after it has been C10/C10M Specification for Natural Cement
C91/C91M Specification for Masonry Cement
manufactured and is ready to be offered for sale.
C109/C109M Test Method for Compressive Strength of
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
Hydraulic Cement Mortars (Using 2-in. or [50 mm] Cube
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
Specimens)
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
C114 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
Cement
values from the two systems may result in non-conformance
C150/C150M Specification for Portland Cement
with the standard. Values in SI units [or inch-pound units] shall
C151/C151M Test Method for Autoclave Expansion of Hy-
be obtained by measurement in SI units [or inch-pound units]
draulic Cement
or by appropriate conversion, using the Rules for Conversion
C157/C157M Test Method for Length Change of Hardened
and Rounding given in Standard IEEE/ASTM SI 10, Values are
Hydraulic-Cement Mortar and Concrete
stated in only SI units when inch-pound units are not used in
C185 Test Method for Air Content of Hydraulic Cement
practice
Mortar
1.3 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes
C191 Test Methods for Time of Setting of Hydraulic Cement
which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes
by Vicat Needle
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered
C204 Test Methods for Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by
requirements of the standard.
Air-Permeability Apparatus
C266 Test Method for Time of Setting of Hydraulic-Cement
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
Paste by Gillmore Needles
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
C430 Test Method for Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
45-μm (No. 325) Sieve
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
C451 Test Method for Early Stiffening of Hydraulic Cement
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
(Paste Method)
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
C452/C452M Test Method for Potential Expansion of
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
Portland-Cement Mortars Exposed to Sulfate
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
C595/C595M Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
C806 Test Method for Restrained Expansion of Expansive
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Cement Mortar
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
C807 Test Method for Time of Setting of Hydraulic Cement
Mortar by Modified Vicat Needle
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C01 on Cement and
is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C01.95 on Coordination of Standards. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved June 1, 2023. Published June 2023. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1944. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as C183/C183M – 22. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/C0183_C0183M-23. the ASTM website.
*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
C183/C183M − 23
C845/C845M Specification for Expansive Hydraulic Ce- C595M), expansive hydraulic cement (Specification C845/
ment C845M), hydraulic cement based on a performance specifica-
C1012/C1012M Test Method for Length Change of tion (Specification C1157/C1157M), plastic stucco cement
Hydraulic-Cement Mortars Exposed to a Sulfate Solution (Specification C1328/C1328M), and mortar cement (Specifi-
C1038/C1038M Test Method for Expansion of Hydraulic cation C1329/C1329M), and
Cement Mortar Bars Stored in Water
4.3 Most building codes and construction specifications
C1157/C1157M Performance Specification for Hydraulic
require that hydraulic cement to be used in the work meet the
Cement
applicable requirements of the relevant purchase specifications,
C1328/C1328M Specification for Plastic (Stucco) Cement
such as Specifications C10/C10M, C91/C91M, C150/C150M,
C1329/C1329M Specification for Mortar Cement
C595/C595M, C1157/C1157M, C1328/C1328M, C1329/
C1357 Test Methods for Evaluating Masonry Bond Strength
C1329M, or C845/C845M. If the code or specification requires
(Withdrawn 2016)
sampling of the manufactured cement, the provisions given in
C1506 Test Method for Water Retention of Hydraulic
4.4 are applicable. Not much cement is sold on the basis of
Cement-Based Mortars and Plasters
such sampling and testing. A useful discussion of sampling and
C1702 Test Method for Measurement of Heat of Hydration
testing cement is contained in ACI 225.1R.
of Hydraulic Cementitious Materials Using Isothermal
4.4 The procedures covered in this practice should be done
Conduction Calorimetry
by or for purchasers of hydraulic cement who are using a code
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test
or specification that requires sampling and testing to determine
Sieves
if the samples conform to the relevant acceptance specifica-
IEEE/ASTM SI 10 Standard for Use of the International
tions. The testing is done using specified methods to determine
System of Units (SI): The Modern Metric System
whether the samples yield test results that conform to the
2.2 ACI Standard:
specification, and the tests serve as a basis for acceptance or
225.1R Guide to the Selection and Use of Hydraulic Ce-
rejection of the lot of material sampled.
ments
4.5 It is neither intended nor required that all cements be
3. Terminology
tested using all the test methods referenced in Section 2.
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 lot (of cement), n—specific quantity of cement offered
5. Kinds and Size of Samples and by Whom Taken
for inspection at any one time. A lot may be one or more
5.1 A cement sample secured during transfer to bulk
storage bins filled consecutively. A lot may also be the contents
storage, from bulk storage, or from a bulk shipment in one
of one or more transport units representing cement drawn from
operation, shall be termed a “grab sample.” A sample obtained
the same storage bin.
during a 10 min interval using an automatic sampling device
3.1.2 reduced testing rate, n—test program that provides for
that continuously samples a cement stream may also be termed
the testing of only two samples from any given lot of samples
a grab sample. Grab samples taken at prescribed intervals over
obtained and prepared for testing at the normal rate as
a period of time may be combined to form a “composite
described herein. The program utilizes probability factors and
sample’’ representative of the cement produced during that
is so designed that when results from the two samples fulfill the
period of time.
requirements of the program it may be said with 95 %
5.2 All samples, whether grab or composite, shall have a
confidence that less than 5 % of the samples would be outside
mass of at least 5 kg [10 lb].
the specification limits.
5.3 The purchaser may designate a representative to super-
4. Significance and Use
vise the sampling, packing, and shipping of samples when it is
so specified in the purchase contract.
4.1 The sampling procedures described are intended for use
in the procurement of samples of hydraulic cement after it has
5.4 Package the samples in moisture-proof, airtight contain-
been manufactured and is ready to be offered for sale. They are
ers numbered consecutively in the order in which the samples
not intended as sampling procedures for quality control pur-
are taken. The purchase contract shall state who will pay for the
poses during manufacturing. The testing procedures outlined
costs of sampling, packaging, shipping, and testing the
cover the amount of testing to be done and provide guidance
samples.
for reporting on conformance or non-conformance of cements
NOTE 1—Polyvinyl chloride sample containers, upon occasion, have
with requirements of purchase specifications.
been found to affect the air-entraining potential of a cement sample. The
same problem might be experienced with containers made from other
4.2 This practice is referenced as the procedure for sampling
plastics.
natural cement (Specification C10/C10M), masonry cement
(Specification C91/C91M), portland cement (Specification
6. Testing-Time Requirements for Completion of Tests
C150/C150M), blended hydraulic cement (Specification C595/
6.1 When tests of hydraulic cement are made at a laboratory
other than that of the cement manufacturer, the cement sam-
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
pling schedule, sample transportation time, and sample testing
www.astm.org.
Detailed requirements for this sieve are given in Specification E11. schedule must be coordinated among the purchaser, the
C183/C183M − 23
manufacturer, and the testing laboratory so that the tests results sample packaged cement from the valve of the cement bag. An
will be available when required. example of just one type is shown in Fig. 1. Take one sample
from a bag in each 4.5 Mg [5 tons] or fraction thereof.
6.2 The manufacturer of the cement shall make the cement
7.1.2.4 From Bulk Shipment of Car or Truck:
available to be sampled for testing early enough before the time
the test results are needed so that at least the applicable time (a) Single Shipment—If only one car or truck is being
intervals listed in 6.3 exist. loaded and the loading is continuous and all from the same
source, take a 5 kg [10-lb] sample. If not continuous or
6.3 When this has been done, the testing laboratory shall
unknown, combine five or more portions from different points
provide test results not later than the indicated number of days
in the load to form the test sample.
after sampling:
(b) Multiple Shipments—When the shipment consists of
Test Methods Time Interval, days
several cars or trucks loaded from the same source and on the
C109/C109M (1 day results), C114, C151/C151M, 8
same day, sample the shipment at the rate of one sample for
C185, C191, C204, C451, C266
each 90 Mg [100 tons] of cement or fraction thereof, but take
C109/C109M and C1702 (3 day results) 10
C109/C109M and C1702 (7 day results) 14 not less than two samples. Consider cement represented by
C452/C452M and C1012/C1012M 21
such samples as a lot, and test the samples in accordance with
(14 day results)
the procedure outlined in the section on Amount of Testing.
C109/C109M (28 day results) 35
C157/C157M (34 day results) 41
7.2 Protection of Samples—As samples are taken, place
them directly in moisture-proof airtight containers to avoid
7. Sampling
moisture absorption and aeration of the sample. If the samples
7.1 The cement may be sampled by any of the applicable
are placed in cans, fill the can completely and immediately
methods described in this section.
seal. Use moisture-proof multiple-wall paper bags or plastic
7.1.1 Delivering to Bulk Storage and Transfer Sampling—
bags if they are strong enough to avoid breakage, and if they
Sample cement while the cement is being transferred. Take one
can be sealed immediately after filling in such a manner as to
grab sample from the transfer stream for each 360 Mg
eliminate excess air in the sample and avoid moisture absorp-
[400 tons] of cement, or fraction thereof, but take no less than
tion and aeration of the sample. Samples shall be treated as
two grab samples and combine them to produce a composite
described in the section on Preparation of Sample.
sample.
7.1.2 Other Sampling Methods—When the above sampling
8. Preparation of Sample
method is not applicable, samples may, when authorized by the
purchaser, be taken by one of the following methods:
8.1 Before testing, pass each sample through an 850 μm
7.1.2.1 From Bulk Storage at Points of Discharge—
(No. 20) sieve, or any other sieve having approximately the
Withdraw cement from the discharge openings in a steady
same size openings, in order to mix the sample, break up
stream until sampling is completed. If a high circular silo is
lumps, and remove foreign material. Do not include the foreign
being sampled, take all samples from one opening. If the
materials and hardened lumps that do not break up on sieving
quantity of the cement in the bin exceeds 1100 Mg [1200 tons]
or brushing in the sample to be tested. Store the cement in
when low rectangular bins are being sampled, discharge
airtight moisture-proof containers to prevent aeration or ab-
openings employed in the sampling shall be such that for no
sorption of moisture prior to test.
opening shall the number of samples represent more than one
half the contents of the bin or more than 1800 Mg [2000 tons].
9. Amount of Testing
When sampling bulk storage at points of discharge, while the
cement is flowing through the openings, take samples at such
9.1 General—When required, the purchaser shall specify
intervals so that at least two grab samples shall be secured for
the amount of testing for the following specification specific
each 360 Mg [400 tons] in the bin or silo.
requirements:
7.1.2.2 From Bulk Storage and Bulk Shipment by Means of
9.1.1 Heat of hydration (Test Method C1702) for optional
Slotted Tube Sampler—Obtain sample using a tube sampler
limits specified in Specification C150/C150M, and special
designed for cohesive and semi-cohesive powders and de-
properties in Specifications C595/C595M and C1157/C1157M;
signed for the depth of the cement to be sampled. An example
9.1.2 Sulfate resistance (Test Method C1012/C1012M) for
of just one type is shown in Fig. 1. Take samples from
optional limits specified in Specifications C595/C595M and
well-distributed points and various depths of the cement so that
C1157/C1157M;
the samples taken will represent the cement involved.
9.1.3 Potential Expansion of Portland-Cement Mortars Ex-
7.1.2.3 From Packaged Cement by Means of Tube
Sampler—Sample package cement using a tube sampler de- posed to Sulfate (Test Method C452/C452M) for optional
signed for cohesive and semi-cohesive powders and able to limits specified in Specification C150/C150M;
FIG. 1 Example of Tube Sampler for Cement
C183/C183M − 23
requirement will probably be within the critical range, and substantial
9.1.4 Expansion of Hydraulic Cement Mortar Bars Stored in
delay in completion of the tests would result from making additional tests
Water (Test Method C1038/C1038M) for limits specified in
(fo
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: C183/C183M − 22 C183/C183M − 23
Standard Practice for
Sampling and the Amount of Testing of Hydraulic Cement
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C183/C183M; 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.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope*
1.1 This practice covers procedures for sampling and for the amount of testing of hydraulic cement after it has been manufactured
and is ready to be offered for sale.
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 Standard IEEE/ASTM SI 10, Values are stated in only SI units when inch-pound units are not used in practice
1.3 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered requirements of the standard.
1.4 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.
1.5 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C10/C10M Specification for Natural Cement
C91/C91M Specification for Masonry Cement
C109/C109M Test Method for Compressive Strength of Hydraulic Cement Mortars (Using 2-in. or [50 mm] Cube Specimens)
C114 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic Cement
C150/C150M Specification for Portland Cement
C151/C151M Test Method for Autoclave Expansion of Hydraulic Cement
C157/C157M Test Method for Length Change of Hardened Hydraulic-Cement Mortar and Concrete
C185 Test Method for Air Content of Hydraulic Cement Mortar
C191 Test Methods for Time of Setting of Hydraulic Cement by Vicat Needle
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C01 on Cement and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C01.95 on Coordination of Standards.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2022June 1, 2023. Published November 2022June 2023. Originally approved in 1944. Last previous edition approved in 20162022 as
C183/C183M – 16.C183/C183M – 22. DOI: 10.1520/C0183_C0183M-22.10.1520/C0183_C0183M-23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
*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
C183/C183M − 23
C204 Test Methods for Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by Air-Permeability Apparatus
C266 Test Method for Time of Setting of Hydraulic-Cement Paste by Gillmore Needles
C430 Test Method for Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by the 45-μm (No. 325) Sieve
C451 Test Method for Early Stiffening of Hydraulic Cement (Paste Method)
C452/C452M Test Method for Potential Expansion of Portland-Cement Mortars Exposed to Sulfate
C595/C595M Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
C806 Test Method for Restrained Expansion of Expansive Cement Mortar
C807 Test Method for Time of Setting of Hydraulic Cement Mortar by Modified Vicat Needle
C845/C845M Specification for Expansive Hydraulic Cement
C1012/C1012M Test Method for Length Change of Hydraulic-Cement Mortars Exposed to a Sulfate Solution
C1038/C1038M Test Method for Expansion of Hydraulic Cement Mortar Bars Stored in Water
C1157/C1157M Performance Specification for Hydraulic Cement
C1328/C1328M Specification for Plastic (Stucco) Cement
C1329/C1329M Specification for Mortar Cement
C1357 Test Methods for Evaluating Masonry Bond Strength (Withdrawn 2016)
C1506 Test Method for Water Retention of Hydraulic Cement-Based Mortars and Plasters
C1702 Test Method for Measurement of Heat of Hydration of Hydraulic Cementitious Materials Using Isothermal Conduction
Calorimetry
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test Sieves
IEEE/ASTM SI 10 Standard for Use of the International System of Units (SI): The Modern Metric System
2.2 ACI Standard:
225.1R Guide to the Selection and Use of Hydraulic Cements
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 lot (of cement), n—specific quantity of cement offered for inspection at any one time. A lot may be one or more storage bins
filled consecutively. A lot may also be the contents of one or more transport units representing cement drawn from the same storage
bin.
3.1.2 reduced testing rate, n—test program that provides for the testing of only two samples from any given lot of samples
obtained and prepared for testing at the normal rate as described herein. The program utilizes probability factors and is so designed
that when results from the two samples fulfill the requirements of the program it may be said with 95 % confidence that less than
5 % of the samples would be outside the specification limits.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 The sampling procedures described are intended for use in the procurement of samples of hydraulic cement after it has been
manufactured and is ready to be offered for sale. They are not intended as sampling procedures for quality control purposes during
manufacturing. The testing procedures outlined cover the amount of testing to be done and provide guidance for reporting on
conformance or non-conformance of cements with requirements of purchase specifications.
4.2 This practice is referenced as the procedure for sampling natural cement (Specification C10/C10M), masonry cement
(Specification C91/C91M), portland cement (Specification C150/C150M), blended hydraulic cement (Specification C595/C595M),
expansive hydraulic cement (Specification C845/C845M), hydraulic cement based on a performance specification (Specification
C1157/C1157M), plastic stucco cement (Specification C1328/C1328M), and mortar cement (Specification C1329/C1329M), and
4.3 Most building codes and construction specifications require that hydraulic cement to be used in the work meet the applicable
requirements of the relevant purchase specifications, such as Specifications C10/C10M, C91/C91M, C150/C150M, C595/C595M,
C1157/C1157M, C1328/C1328M, C1329/C1329M, or C845/C845M. If the code or specification requires sampling of the
manufactured cement, the provisions given in 4.4 are applicable. Not much cement is sold on the basis of such sampling and
testing. A useful discussion of sampling and testing cement is contained in ACI 225.1R.
4.4 The procedures covered in this practice should be done by or for purchasers of hydraulic cement who are using a code or
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.astm.org.
Detailed requirements for this sieve are given in Specification E11.
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specification that requires sampling and testing to determine if the samples conform to the relevant acceptance specifications. The
testing is done using specified methods to determine whether the samples yield test results that conform to the specification, and
the tests serve as a basis for acceptance or rejection of the lot of material sampled.
4.5 It is neither intended nor required that all cements be tested using all the test methods referenced in Section 2.
5. Kinds and Size of Samples and by Whom Taken
5.1 A cement sample secured during transfer to bulk storage, from bulk storage, or from a bulk shipment in one operation, shall
be termed a “grab sample.” A sample obtained during a 10 min interval using an automatic sampling device that continuously
samples a cement stream may also be termed a grab sample. Grab samples taken at prescribed intervals over a period of time may
be combined to form a “composite sample’’ representative of the cement produced during that period of time.
5.2 All samples, whether grab or composite, shall have a mass of at least 5 kg [10 lb].
5.3 The purchaser may designate a representative to supervise the sampling, packing, and shipping of samples when it is so
specified in the purchase contract.
5.4 Package the samples in moisture-proof, airtight containers numbered consecutively in the order in which the samples are taken.
The purchase contract shall state who will pay for the costs of sampling, packaging, shipping, and testing the samples.
NOTE 1—Polyvinyl chloride sample containers, upon occasion, have been found to affect the air-entraining potential of a cement sample. The same
problem might be experienced with containers made from other plastics.
6. Testing-Time Requirements for Completion of Tests
6.1 When tests of hydraulic cement are made at a laboratory other than that of the cement manufacturer, the cement sampling
schedule, sample transportation time, and sample testing schedule must be coordinated among the purchaser, the manufacturer, and
the testing laboratory so that the tests results will be available when required.
6.2 The manufacturer of the cement shall make the cement available to be sampled for testing early enough before the time the
test results are needed so that at least the applicable time intervals listed in 6.3 exist.
6.3 When this has been done, the testing laboratory shall provide test results not later than the indicated number of days after
sampling:
Test Methods Time Interval, days
C109/C109M (1 day results), C114, C151/C151M, 8
C185, C191, C204, C451, C266
C109/C109M and C1702 (3 day results) 10
C109/C109M and C1702 (7 day results) 14
C452/C452M and C1012/C1012M 21
(14 day results)
C109/C109M (28 day results) 35
C157/C157M (34 day results) 41
7. Sampling
7.1 The cement may be sampled by any of the applicable methods described in this section.
7.1.1 Delivering to Bulk Storage and Transfer Sampling—Sample cement while the cement is being transferred. Take one grab
sample from the transfer stream for each 360 Mg [400 tons] of cement, or fraction thereof, but take no less than two grab samples
and combine them to produce a composite sample.
7.1.2 Other Sampling Methods—When the above sampling method is not applicable, samples may, when authorized by the
purchaser, be taken by one of the following methods:
7.1.2.1 From Bulk Storage at Points of Discharge—Withdraw cement from the discharge openings in a steady stream until
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sampling is completed. If a high circular silo is being sampled, take all samples from one opening. If the quantity of the cement
in the bin exceeds 1100 Mg [1200 tons] when low rectangular bins are being sampled, discharge openings employed in the
sampling shall be such that for no opening shall the number of samples represent more than one half the contents of the bin or
more than 1800 Mg [2000 tons]. When sampling bulk storage at points of discharge, while the cement is flowing through the
openings, take samples at such intervals so that at least two grab samples shall be secured for each 360 Mg [400 tons] in the bin
or silo.
7.1.2.2 From Bulk Storage and Bulk Shipment by Means of Slotted Tube Sampler—Obtain sample using a tube sampler designed
for cohesive and semi-cohesive powders and designed for the depth of the cement to be sampled. An example of just one type is
shown in Fig. 1. Take samples from well-distributed points and various depths of the cement so that the samples taken will
represent the cement involved.
7.1.2.3 From Packaged Cement by Means of Tube Sampler—Sample package cement using a tube sampler designed for cohesive
and semi-cohesive powders and able to sample packaged cement from the valve of the cement bag. An example of just one type
is shown in Fig. 1. Take one sample from a bag in each 4.5 Mg [5 tons] or fraction thereof.
7.1.2.4 From Bulk Shipment of Car or Truck:
(a) Single Shipment—If only one car or truck is being loaded and the loading is continuous and all from the same source, take
a 5 kg [10-lb] sample. If not continuous or unknown, combine five or more portions from different points in the load to form the
test sample.
(b) Multiple Shipments—When the shipment consists of several cars or trucks loaded from the same source and on the same
day, sample the shipment at the rate of one sample for each 90 Mg [100 tons] of cement or fraction thereof, but take not less than
two samples. Consider cement represented by such samples as a lot, and test the samples in accordance with the procedure outlined
in the section on Amount of Testing.
7.2 Protection of Samples—As samples are taken, place them directly in moisture-proof airtight containers to avoid moisture
absorption and aeration of the sample. If the samples are placed in cans, fill the can completely and immediately seal. Use
moisture-proof multiple-wall paper bags or plastic bags if they are strong enough to avoid breakage, and if they can be sealed
immediately after filling in such a manner as to eliminate excess air in the sample and avoid moisture absorption and aeration of
the sample. Samples shall be treated as described in the section on Preparation of Sample.
8. Preparation of Sample
8.1 Before testing, pass each sample through an 850 μm (No. 20) sieve, or any other sieve having approximately the same size
openings, in order to mix the sample, break up lumps, and remove foreign material. Do not include the foreign materials and
hardened lumps that do not break up on sieving or brushing in the sample to be tested. Store the cement in airtight moisture-proof
containers to prevent aeration or absorption of moisture prior to test.
9. Amount of Testing
9.1 General—When required, the purchaser shall specify the amount of testing for the following specification specific
requirements:
9.1.1 Heat of hydration (Test Method C1702) for optional limits specified in Specification C150/C150M, and special properties
in Specifications C595/C595M and C1157/C1157M;
9.1.2 Sulfate resistance (Test Method C1012/C1012M) for optional limits specified in Specifications C595/C595M and
C1157/C1157M;
9.1.3 Potential Expansion of Portland-Cement Mortars Exposed to Sulfate (Test Method C452/C452M) for optional limits
specified in Specification C150/C150M;
9.1.4 Expansion of Hydraulic Cement Mortar Bars Stored in Water (Test Method C1038/C1038M) for limits specified in
Specifications C150/C150M, C595/C595M and C1157/C1157M;
FIG. 1 Example of Tube Sampler for Cement
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9.1.5 Early Stiffening of Hydraulic Cement (Paste Method) (Test Method C451) for optional limits specified in Specification
C150/C150M and C1157/C1157M;
9.1.6 Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by the 45 μm (No. 325 Sieve (Test Method C430) for limits specified in Specifications
C91/C91M, C1328/C1328M, and C1329/C1329M;
9.1.7 Water Retention of Hydraulic Cement-Based Mortars and Plasters (Test Method C1506) for limits specified in Specification
C91/C91M, C1328/C1328M, and C1329/C1329M;
9.1.8 Evaluating Masonry Bond Strength (Test Method C1357) for limits specified in Specification C1329/C1329M;
9.1.9 Restrained Expansion of Expansive Cement Mortar (Test Method C806) for limits specified in Specification C845/C845M;
and
9.1.10 Time of Setting of Hydraulic Cement Mortar by Modified Vicat Needle (Test Method C807) for limits specified in
Specification C845/C845M.
9.1.11 Make all other tests on individual grab or composite s
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