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PUBLICATIONS

Performance Testing of Hydraulic Cements: Measuring Sulfate Resistance

Published

Author(s)

Chiara F. Ferraris, Paul E. Stutzman, Max A. Peltz

Abstract

The sulfate resistance of cements used in the construction industry is traditionally assessed by measuring the expansion of a prism of 280 mm (11inch) length and 25 mm (1 inch) square cross section immersed in a sodium sulfate solution for at least one year. The duration of the experiment limits this test from being used as a performance-based determination of innovative mixtures of cementitious materials. In response to the need for a more rapid test protocol, NIST has developed a new test method that measures the expansion of smaller bars (10 mm x 10 mm x 60 mm) made with neat cement paste. With these bars, similar expansion is achieved in less than 3 months, reducing the test duration by a factor of at least 4. This accelerated test method provides more rapid results consistent with the traditional test procedure, allowing for a shorter decision time and the screening of more materials.
Citation
Journal of Research (NIST JRES) -
Volume
123
NIST Pub Series
Journal of Research (NIST JRES)
Pub Type
NIST Pubs

Download Paper

DOI Link

Keywords

expansion measurements, degradation, hydraulic cement, sulfate attack, sulfate resistance.
Buildings and Construction and Building materials

Citation

Ferraris, C. , Stutzman, P. and Peltz, M. (2018), Performance Testing of Hydraulic Cements: Measuring Sulfate Resistance, Journal of Research (NIST JRES), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://doi.org/10.6028/jres.123.010 (Accessed October 20, 2025)

Issues

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Created May 25, 2018, Updated November 10, 2018
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