ASTM C616/C616M-22
(Specification)Standard Specification for Quartz-Based Dimension Stone
Standard Specification for Quartz-Based Dimension Stone
ABSTRACT
This specification covers the material characteristics, physical requirements, and sampling method appropriate to the selection of quartz-based dimension stone for general building and structural purposes. Quartz-based dimension stone shall include stone that is sawed, cut, split, or otherwise finished or shaped, and shall specifically exclude molded, cast, or otherwise artificially aggregated units composed of fragments, and also crushed and broken stone. Quartz stones covered here shall be classified according to the free silica content, as follows: sandstone (I); quartzitic sandstone (II); and quartzite (III) The physical property requirements to which quartz-based stones shall adhere to are absorption by weight, density, compressive strength, modulus of rupture, and abrasion resistance.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the material characteristics, physical requirements, and sampling appropriate to the selection of quartz-based dimension stone for general building and structural purposes. Refer to Guides C1242 and C1528 for the appropriate selection and use of quartz-based dimension stone.
1.2 Quartz-based dimension stone shall include stone that is sawed, cut, split, or otherwise finished or shaped, and shall specifically exclude molded, cast, or otherwise artificially aggregated units composed of fragments, and also crushed and broken stone.
1.3 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.
1.4 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-Jul-2022
- Technical Committee
- C18 - Dimension Stone
- Drafting Committee
- C18.03 - Material Specifications
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2024
- Effective Date
- 15-Nov-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2019
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2018
- Refers
ASTM C97/C97M-18 - Standard Test Methods for Absorption and Bulk Specific Gravity of Dimension Stone - Effective Date
- 01-May-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2017
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2016
Overview
ASTM C616/C616M-22: Standard Specification for Quartz-Based Dimension Stone establishes the requirements for material characteristics, physical properties, and sampling procedures relevant to selecting quartz-based dimension stone for general building and structural applications. Issued by ASTM International, this standard ensures that natural quartz-based stones - including sandstone, quartzitic sandstone, and quartzite - meet specified performance and durability criteria. Artificially aggregated or cast materials, as well as crushed and broken stone, are excluded from this specification.
Key Topics
Material Classification: Quartz-based dimension stone is categorized by free silica content:
- Type I: Sandstone (≥60% free silica)
- Type II: Quartzitic Sandstone (≥90% free silica)
- Type III: Quartzite (≥95% free silica)
Physical Requirements: The standard defines required properties including:
- Absorption by weight
- Minimum density
- Minimum compressive strength
- Modulus of rupture
- Abrasion resistance (for applications subject to foot traffic)
Quality and Appearance: Stones must be sound, durable, and free from defects such as cracks, seams, or pits that could compromise structural integrity. Accepted color and texture are established through representative sample selection.
Sampling Methodology: Tests to verify physical properties are performed on samples representative of the material to be used in projects.
Measurement Systems: Values can be stated in SI or inch-pound units. Each system is used independently to ensure standard compliance.
Applications
ASTM C616/C616M-22 is essential for professionals involved in building construction, historic restoration, architectural cladding, and civil engineering projects. Its specification supports safe and durable use of quartz-based natural stone in:
- Structural walls and facades
- Interior and exterior flooring
- Paving in pedestrian areas
- Architectural trim and decorative elements
- Retaining walls and landscape design
By following this standard, architects, engineers, and contractors ensure the specified stone materials exhibit expected performance in terms of strength, durability, and appearance, making them well-suited for critical structural and aesthetic applications.
Related Standards
Several other ASTM standards complement or are referenced by ASTM C616/C616M-22, providing additional guidance for the testing, selection, and installation of dimension stone:
- ASTM C97/C97M: Test Methods for Absorption and Bulk Specific Gravity of Dimension Stone
- ASTM C99/C99M: Test Method for Modulus of Rupture of Dimension Stone
- ASTM C170/C170M: Test Method for Compressive Strength of Dimension Stone
- ASTM C241/C241M, ASTM C1353: Test Methods for Abrasion Resistance of Stone Subjected to Foot Traffic
- ASTM C1242: Guide for Selection, Design, and Installation of Dimension Stone Attachment Systems
- ASTM C1528: Guide for Selection of Dimension Stone
- ASTM C119: Terminology Relating to Dimension Stone
Consulting these standards in conjunction with ASTM C616/C616M-22 helps to ensure comprehensive compliance and optimal performance of quartz-based dimension stone in a wide range of construction and architectural projects.
Keywords: ASTM C616, quartz-based dimension stone, sandstone, quartzite, quartzitic sandstone, building stone specification, physical properties of stone, construction standards, stone classification, structural stone requirements
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM C616/C616M-22 is a technical specification published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Specification for Quartz-Based Dimension Stone". This standard covers: ABSTRACT This specification covers the material characteristics, physical requirements, and sampling method appropriate to the selection of quartz-based dimension stone for general building and structural purposes. Quartz-based dimension stone shall include stone that is sawed, cut, split, or otherwise finished or shaped, and shall specifically exclude molded, cast, or otherwise artificially aggregated units composed of fragments, and also crushed and broken stone. Quartz stones covered here shall be classified according to the free silica content, as follows: sandstone (I); quartzitic sandstone (II); and quartzite (III) The physical property requirements to which quartz-based stones shall adhere to are absorption by weight, density, compressive strength, modulus of rupture, and abrasion resistance. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers the material characteristics, physical requirements, and sampling appropriate to the selection of quartz-based dimension stone for general building and structural purposes. Refer to Guides C1242 and C1528 for the appropriate selection and use of quartz-based dimension stone. 1.2 Quartz-based dimension stone shall include stone that is sawed, cut, split, or otherwise finished or shaped, and shall specifically exclude molded, cast, or otherwise artificially aggregated units composed of fragments, and also crushed and broken stone. 1.3 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. 1.4 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.
ABSTRACT This specification covers the material characteristics, physical requirements, and sampling method appropriate to the selection of quartz-based dimension stone for general building and structural purposes. Quartz-based dimension stone shall include stone that is sawed, cut, split, or otherwise finished or shaped, and shall specifically exclude molded, cast, or otherwise artificially aggregated units composed of fragments, and also crushed and broken stone. Quartz stones covered here shall be classified according to the free silica content, as follows: sandstone (I); quartzitic sandstone (II); and quartzite (III) The physical property requirements to which quartz-based stones shall adhere to are absorption by weight, density, compressive strength, modulus of rupture, and abrasion resistance. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers the material characteristics, physical requirements, and sampling appropriate to the selection of quartz-based dimension stone for general building and structural purposes. Refer to Guides C1242 and C1528 for the appropriate selection and use of quartz-based dimension stone. 1.2 Quartz-based dimension stone shall include stone that is sawed, cut, split, or otherwise finished or shaped, and shall specifically exclude molded, cast, or otherwise artificially aggregated units composed of fragments, and also crushed and broken stone. 1.3 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. 1.4 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.
ASTM C616/C616M-22 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 91.100.15 - Mineral materials and products. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM C616/C616M-22 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM C170/C170M-24a, ASTM C170/C170M-24, ASTM C1242-23c, ASTM C1242-23b, ASTM C1242-23a, ASTM C170/C170M-23, ASTM C1242-19a, ASTM C119-19, ASTM C1242-19, ASTM C99/C99M-18, ASTM C97/C97M-18, ASTM C1242-18a, ASTM C1242-18, ASTM C170/C170M-17, ASTM C1242-16. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM C616/C616M-22 is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
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:C616/C616M −22
Standard Specification for
Quartz-Based Dimension Stone
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C616/C616M; 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 C241/C241M Test Method forAbrasion Resistance of Stone
Subjected to Foot Traffic
1.1 This specification covers the material characteristics,
C1242 Guide for Selection, Design, and Installation of
physical requirements, and sampling appropriate to the selec-
Dimension Stone Attachment Systems
tion of quartz-based dimension stone for general building and
C1353 Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Dimension
structural purposes. Refer to Guides C1242 and C1528 for the
Stone Subjected to Foot Traffic Using a Rotary Platform
appropriate selection and use of quartz-based dimension stone.
Abraser
1.2 Quartz-based dimension stone shall include stone that is
C1528 Guide for Selection of Dimension Stone
sawed, cut, split, or otherwise finished or shaped, and shall
specifically exclude molded, cast, or otherwise artificially
3. Terminology
aggregated units composed of fragments, and also crushed and
3.1 Definitions—All definitions are in accordance with Ter-
broken stone.
minology C119.
1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
4. Classification
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
4.1 Quartz-based dimension stone sandstone shall be clas-
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
sified according to the free silica content as follows:
values from the two systems may result in non-conformance
4.1.1 I Sandstone, with 60 % minimum free silica content.
with the standard.
4.1.2 II Quartzitic Sandstone, with 90 % minimum free
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
silica content.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
4.1.3 III Quartzite, with 95 % minimum free silica content.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
5. Physical Properties
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
5.1 Quartz-baseddimensionstonesuppliedunderthisspeci-
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
fication shall conform to the physical requirements in Table 1.
2. Referenced Documents
5.2 Quartz-based dimension stone shall be sound, durable,
andfreeofspalls,cracks,openseams,pits,orotherdefectsthat
2.1 ASTM Standards:
are likely to impair its structural integrity in its intended use.
C97/C97M Test Methods for Absorption and Bulk Specific
Gravity of Dimension Stone
5.3 The desired color and texture, with their permissible
C99/C99M Test Method for Modulus of Rupture of Dimen-
natural variations in material characteristics for all material to
sion Stone
be produced for the project, shall be established by control
C119 Terminology Relating to Dimension Stone
samples. Select representative samples by viewing a sufficient
C170/C170M Test Method for Compressive Strength of
number of physical samples prior to production that show the
Dimension Stone
complete range of variations in color and textur
...
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: C616/C616M − 15 C616/C616M − 22
Standard Specification for
Quartz-Based Dimension Stone
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C616/C616M; 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
1.1 This specification covers the material characteristics, physical requirements, and sampling appropriate to the selection of
quartz-based dimension stone for general building and structural purposes. Refer to Guides C1242 and C1528 for the appropriate
selection and use of quartz-based dimension stone.
1.2 Quartz-based dimension stone shall include stone that is sawed, cut, split, or otherwise finished or shaped, and shall
specifically exclude molded, cast, or otherwise artificially aggregated units composed of fragments, and also crushed and broken
stone.
1.3 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.
1.4 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:
C97/C97M Test Methods for Absorption and Bulk Specific Gravity of Dimension Stone
C99/C99M Test Method for Modulus of Rupture of Dimension Stone
C119 Terminology Relating to Dimension Stone
C170/C170M Test Method for Compressive Strength of Dimension Stone
C241/C241M Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Stone Subjected to Foot Traffic
C1242 Guide for Selection, Design, and Installation of Dimension Stone Attachment Systems
C1353 Test Method for Abrasion Resistance of Dimension Stone Subjected to Foot Traffic Using a Rotary Platform Abraser
C1528 Guide for Selection of Dimension Stone
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—All definitions are in accordance with Terminology C119.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C18 on Dimension Stone and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C18.03 on Material
Specifications.
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2015Aug. 1, 2022. Published January 2016September 2022. Originally approved in 1968. Last previous edition approved in 20102015
as C616/C616M – 10.C616/C616M – 15. DOI: 10.1520/C0616_C0616M-15.10.1520/C0616_C0616M-22.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standardsvolume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C616/C616M − 22
4. Classification
4.1 Quartz-based dimension stone sandstone shall be classified according to the free silica content as follows:
4.1.1 I Sandstone, with 60 % minimum free silica content.
4.1.2 II Quartzitic Sandstone, with 90 % minimum free silica content.
4.1.3 III Quartzite, with 95 % minimum free silica content.
5. Phys
...
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