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: C311/C311M − 22

Standard Test Methods for

Sampling and Testing Fly Ash or Natural Pozzolans for Use
in Portland-Cement Concrete1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C311/C311M; 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*
Effectiveness of Fly Ash or Natural Pozzolan in
1.1 These test methods cover procedures for sampling and Controlling Alkali-Silica Reactions
32
testing fly ash and raw or calcined pozzolans for use in
portland-cement concrete. Effectiveness of Fly Ash or Natural Pozzolan in
34
Contributing to Sulfate Resistance
1.2 The procedures appear in the following order:

1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units

Sections
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
Sampling 7 each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to
ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be
CHEMICAL ANALYSIS
used independently of the other, and values from the two
Reagents and apparatus 10 systems shall not be combined.
Moisture content 11 and 12 NOTE 1—Sieve size is identified by its standard designation in Speci-
fication E11. The alternative designation given in parentheses is for
Loss on ignition 13 and 14 information only and does not represent a different standard sieve size.
Silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide, iron oxide, 1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
calcium oxide, magnesium oxide, sulfur
15
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
trioxide, sodium oxide and potassium responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
oxide
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
Available alkali 16 and 17 mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.5 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes
Ammonia 18
that provide explanatory information. These notes and foot-
PHYSICAL TESTS notes (excluding those in tables) shall not be considered as
requirements of this standard.
Density 19
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
Fineness 20 dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
Increase of drying shrinkage of mortar bars 21 – 23 ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
Soundness 24
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Air-entrainment of mortar 25 and 26 Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Strength activity index with portland cement 27 – 30 2. Referenced Documents
Water requirement 31 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
C109/C109M Test Method for Compressive Strength of
1
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C09 on
Concrete and Concrete Aggregates and are the direct responsibility of Subcommit-
2
tee C09.24 on Supplementary Cementitious Materials. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2022. Published February 2022. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1953. Last previous edition approved in 2018 as C311/C311M – 18. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
DOI: 10.1520/C0311_C0311M-22. 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

&RS\ULJKWE\$670,QW O DOOULJKWVUHVHUYHG 0RQ$XJ*07

1
'RZQORDGHGSULQWHGE\
)XQGDFLRQ8QLYHUVLGDG'HO1RUWHSXUVXDQWWR/LFHQVH$JUHHPHQW1RIXUWKHUUHSURGXFWLRQVDXWKRUL]HG
 C311/C311M − 22
Hydraulic Cement Mortars (Using 2-in. or [50 mm] Cube 3.2.1 composite sample, n—a sample that is constructed by
Specimens) combining equal portions of grab or regular samples.
C114 Test Methods for Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic 3.2.2 established source, n—a source for which at least six
Cement months of continuous production quality assurance records
C125 Terminology Relating to Concrete and Concrete Ag- from a test frequency required for a new source are available,
gregates sampled at the source.
C150/C150M Specification for Portland Cement
3.2.3 grab sample, n—a sample that is taken in a single
C151/C151M Test Method for Autoclave Expansion of Hy-
operation from a conveyor delivering to bulk storage, from
draulic Cement
bags, or from a bulk shipment.
C157/C157M Test Method for Length Change of Hardened
3.2.3.1 Discussion—A grab sample may or may not reflect
Hydraulic-Cement Mortar and Concrete
the composition or physical properties of a single lot of fly ash
C185 Test Method for Air Content of Hydraulic Cement
or natural pozzolan. This type of sample can be used to
Mortar
characterize small amounts of material.
C188 Test Method for Density of Hydraulic Cement
C204 Test Methods for Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by 3.2.4 new source, n—a source for which less than six
Air-Permeability Apparatus months of production records are available, sampled at the
C219 Terminology Relating to Hydraulic and Other Inor- source.
ganic Cements 3.2.5 regular sample, n—a sample that is constructed by
C226 Specification for Air-Entraining Additions for Use in combining equal portions of grab samples that were taken at
the Manufacture of Air-Entraining Hydraulic Cement predetermined times or locations from any single lot of
C227 Test Method for Potential Alkali Reactivity of material.
Cement-Aggregate Combinations (Mortar-Bar Method)
(Withdrawn 2018)3 4. Significance and Use
C430 Test Method for Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by the 4.1 These test methods are used to develop data for com-
45-µm (No. 325) Sieve parison with the requirements of Specification C618 or Speci-
C441/C441M Test Method for Effectiveness of Pozzolans or fication C1697. These test methods are based on standardized
Ground Blast-Furnace Slag in Preventing Excessive Ex- testing in the laboratory and are not intended to simulate job
pansion of Concrete Due to the Alkali-Silica Reaction conditions.
C604 Test Method for True Specific Gravity of Refractory 4.1.1 Strength Activity Index—The test for strength activity
Materials by Gas-Comparison Pycnometer index is used to determine whether fly ash or natural pozzolan
C618 Specification for Coal Fly Ash and Raw or Calcined results in an acceptable level of strength development when
Natural Pozzolan for Use in Concrete used with hydraulic cement in concrete. Since the test is
C670 Practice for Preparing Precision and Bias Statements performed with mortar, the results may not provide a direct
for Test Methods for Construction Materials correlation of how the fly ash or natural pozzolan will
C778 Specification for Standard Sand contribute to strength in concrete.
C1012/C1012M Test Method for Length Change of 4.1.2 Chemical Tests—The chemical component determina-
Hydraulic-Cement Mortars Exposed to a Sulfate Solution tions and the limits placed on each do not predict the
C1437 Test Method for Flow of Hydraulic Cement Mortar performance of a fly ash or natural pozzolan with hydraulic
C1697 Specification for Blended Supplementary Cementi- cement in concrete, but collectively help describe composition
tious Materials and uniformity of the material.
D1426 Test Methods for Ammonia Nitrogen In Water
D4326 Test Method for Major and Minor Elements in Coal 5. Materials
Ash By X-Ray Fluorescence 5.1 Graded Standard Sand—The sand used for making test
E11 Specification for Woven Wire Test Sieve Cloth and Test specimens for the activity index with lime or portland cement
Sieves shall be natural silica sand conforming to the requirements for
2.2 ACI Document:4 graded standard sand in Specification C778.
ACI 201.2R Guide to Durable Concrete
NOTE 2—Segregation of Graded Sand—The graded standard sand
3. Terminology should be handled in such a manner as to prevent segregation, since
variations in the grading of the sand cause variations in the consistency of
3.1 Definitions: the mortar. In emptying bins or sacks, care should be exercised to prevent
3.1.1 For definitions of terms used in this test method, refer the formation of mounds of sand or craters in the sand, down the slopes
of which the coarser particles will roll. Bins should be of sufficient size to
to Terminology C125 and Terminology C219. permit these precautions. Devices for drawing the sand from bins by
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: gravity should not be used.
5.2 Hydrated Lime—The hydrated lime used in the tests
3
shall be reagent-grade calcium hydroxide, 95 % minimum
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
calculated as Ca(OH)2 (Note 3), and have a minimum fineness
www.astm.org.
4
Available from American Concrete Institute (ACI), P.O. Box 9094, Farmington of 2500 m2/kg as determined in accordance with Test Method
Hills, MI 48333-9094, http://www.aci-int.org. C204.

&RS\ULJKWE\$670,QW O DOOULJKWVUHVHUYHG 0RQ$XJ*07

2
'RZQORDGHGSULQWHGE\
)XQGDFLRQ8QLYHUVLGDG'HO1RUWHSXUVXDQWWR/LFHQVH$JUHHPHQW1RIXUWKHUUHSURGXFWLRQVDXWKRUL]HG
 C311/C311M − 22
NOTE 3—The calcium hydroxide should be protected from exposure to 7.1.3 From Conveyor Delivering to Bulk Storage—Take one
carbon dioxide. Material remaining in an opened container after a test sample of 2 kg (4 lb) or more of the material passing over the
should not be used for subsequent tests.
conveyor. This may be secured by taking the entire test sample
5.3 Portland Cement—The portland cement used in the in a single operation, known as the grab sample method, or by
Strength Activity Index with Portland Cement test shall comply combining several equal portions taken at regular intervals,
with the requirements of Specification C150/C150M and have known as the regular sample method. Automatic samplers may
a minimum compressive strength of 35 MPa (5000 psi) at 28 be used to obtain samples.
days and total equivalent alkalies (Na2O + 0.658 K2O) not less
7.2 Samples shall be treated as described in Section 8.
than 0.50 % nor more than 0.80 %.
5.3.1 The use of a locally available portland cement in the NOTE 4—Some methods of loading or delivery of fly ash or natural
Strength Activity Index or a project cement that does not meet pozzolan, particularly from an airstream or conveyor belt, may create
stratification or segregation in the material stream. Sampling techniques
the requirements of the section on Materials is permitted when
must be designed to ensure that the sample is representative of the material
the variations from the requirements of the section on Materials shipped.
are reported and when the use of such portland cement is
requested. 8. Preparation and Storage of Samples
6. Sample Type and Size 8.1 Prepare composite samples for the tests required in
Section 9, by arranging all grab or regular samples into groups
6.1 Grab samples and regular samples shall have a mass of covering the period or quantity to be represented by the
at least 2 kg (4 lb). sample. Take equal portions from each, sufficient to produce a
6.2 Grab samples or regular samples taken at prescribed composite sample large enough for the tests required. Mix the
intervals over a period of time (see Table 1), may be combined composite sample thoroughly.
to form a composite sample representative of the fly ash or 8.2 Samples shall be stored in clean, airtight containers
natural pozzolan produced during that period of time. identified with the source and lot or period of time represented.
6.3 Composite samples shall have a mass of at least 4 kg Untested portions of the sample shall be retained for at least
(8 lb). one month after all test results have been reported.
6.4 The sampling shall be done by, or under the direction of,
9. Testing Frequency
a responsible representative of the purchaser.
9.1 General—When required, the purchaser shall specify
7. Sampling Procedure the amount of testing for available alkalies, reactivity with
7.1 The fly ash or natural pozzolan may be sampled by any cement alkalies, drying shrinkage, and air-entrainment. Make
one of the following methods: all other tests on regular or composite samples chosen as
7.1.1 From Bulk Storage at Point of Discharge or from Rail specified in Table 1.
Cars and Road Tankers—A sample may be taken by siphon CHEMICAL ANALYSIS
tube during loading or by sampling tube from each loaded car
or tanker. If the load is sampled at the point of discharge into 10. General
the rail car or tanker, the top surface shall be removed to a
depth of at least 200 mm (8 in.) before sampling. The sample 10.1 All apparatus, reagents and techniques shall comply
shall be identified with at least the date and shipment number. with the requirements of Test Methods C114.
7.1.2 From Bags in Storage—The regular sample shall 10.2 Purity of Water—Unless otherwise indicated, refer-
comprise increments of equal size taken by sampling tube from ences to water shall be understood to mean distilled water or
three bags selected at random from one lot of bagged material. water of equal purity.
The sample shall be identified with date and lot number.
MOISTURE CONTENT

TABLE 1 Minimum Sampling and Testing FrequencyA 11. Procedure

Test Sample Type
Jobsite or New Established 11.1 Dry a weighed sample, as received, to constant mass in
SourceB SourceB
an oven at 110 °C 6 5 °C [230 °F 6 10 °F].
Moisture content Regular Daily or each Daily or each
Loss on ignition 90 Mgc 360 MgC
Fineness (100 Tons) (400 Tons) 12. Calculation
Density and the Composite Monthly or each Monthly or each
other tests in 1 800 MgC 2 900 MgC
12.1 Calculate the percentage of moisture to the nearest
Specification (2 000 Tons) (3 200 Tons) 0.1 %, as follows:
C618, Tables 1
and 2
A
It should be noted that the minimum test frequency given in Table 1 is not
Moisture content, % 5 ~ A/B ! 3 100 (1)
necessarily the frequency needed for quality control programs on some fly ash or
natural pozzolans.
where:
B
C
For definitions, refer to the Terminology section. A = mass loss during drying, and
Whichever comes first. B = mass as received.

&RS\ULJKWE\$670,QW O DOOULJKWVUHVHUYHG 0RQ$XJ*07

3
'RZQORDGHGSULQWHGE\
)XQGDFLRQ8QLYHUVLGDG'HO1RUWHSXUVXDQWWR/LFHQVH$JUHHPHQW1RIXUWKHUUHSURGXFWLRQVDXWKRUL]HG
 C311/C311M − 22
LOSS ON IGNITION AVAILABLE ALKALI

13. Procedure 16. Procedure

16.1 Weigh 5.0 g of the sample and 2.0 g of hydrated lime
13.1 Using a representative sample of material remaining
on a piece of weighing paper, carefully mix using a metal
from the determination of moisture content, determine loss on
spatula, and transfer to a small plastic vial of approximately
ignition by the procedure described below:
25 mL capacity. Add 10.0 mL of water to this mixture, seal the
13.1.1 Determine the tare mass of a clean, cool, uncovered, vial by securing the cap or lid to the vial with tape (Note 7),
porcelain crucible, and record the tare mass of the crucible (A) blend by shaking until the mixture is uniform, and store at
to the nearest 0.0001 g. 38 °C 6 2 °C.
NOTE 5—The tare mass of crucibles should be determined by preheat- NOTE 7—To ensure that moisture loss from the paste does not occur,
ing the empty crucible to constant mass at the same temperature and under place the sealed vial in a sealable container (such as a small sample or
the same conditions as used for the final ignition of a residue, and cooling mason jar), add sufficient water to cover the bottom of the container, and
in a desiccator for the same period of time used for the crucible containing seal.
the residue.
16.2 Open the vial at the age of 28 days and transfer the
13.1.2 In the crucible, place an amount of material between contents to a 250 mL casserole. Break up and grind the cake
0.5 and 4 g and record the combined mass of the crucible and with a pestle, adding a small amount of water, if necessary, so
material (B) to the nearest 0.0001 g. that a uniform slurry containing no lumps is obtained (Note 8).
13.1.3 Ignite the crucible and material to constant mass in a Add sufficient water to make the total volume 200 mL. Let
furnace at 750 6 50 °C. Constant mass shall be obtained by stand 1 h at room temperature with frequent stirring. Filter
any of the following methods: 1) firing for 45 minutes, 2) through a medium-textured filter paper onto a 500 mL volu-
successive firings until constant mass is established by mea- metric flask. Wash thoroughly with hot water (eight to ten
suring the loss between two successive firings. When using times).
successive firings, the initial firing duration shall be at least
15 minutes and subsequent firings at least 5 minutes in dura- NOTE 8—At times it may be necessary to break the vial and peel off the
plastic from the solid cake. In such cases, care should be exercised to
tion. The loss after each firing is calculated using the equation avoid the loss of material and to remove all solid material from the
given in 14.1 and the difference between two successive firings fragments of the vial. If the cake is too hard to break up and grind in the
shall be less than 0.1 % for the mass to be considered constant. casserole, a mortar should be used.
13.1.4 Remove the crucible at the end of ignition and allow 16.3 Neutralize the filtrate with dilute HCl (1 + 3), using 1
it to cool in a desiccator to room temperature. Measure and to 2 drops of phenolphthalein solution as the indicator. Add
record the final mass of the crucible and material (C) to the exactly 5 mL of dilute HCl (1 + 3) in excess. Cool the solution
nearest 0.0001 g. to room temperature and fill the flask to the mark with distilled
water. Determine the amount of sodium and potassium oxides
14. Calculation in the solution using the flame photometric procedure, de-
14.1 Calculate the percentage of loss on ignition to the scribed in Test Methods C114, except that the standard
nearest 0.1 %, as follows: solutions shall be made up to contain 8 mL of calcium chloride
(CaCl2) stock solution per litre of standard solution, and the
Loss on ignition, % 5 S B2C
B2A D
3 100 (2) solution as prepared shall be used in place of the solution of
cement.
where: NOTE 9—The standard solutions made up with 8 mL of calcium
A = tare mass of crucible, chloride (CaCl2) stock solution contain the equivalent of 504 ppm of CaO.
B = mass of moisture-free material and crucible, and Tests have shown that this amount closely approximates the amount of
C = mass of ignited material and crucible. calcium dissolved in the test solution.

SILICON DIOXIDE, ALUMINUM OXIDE, IRON OXIDE, 17. Calculation and Report
CALCIUM OXIDE, MAGNESIUM OXIDE, SULFUR 17.1 Calculate the results as weight percent of the original
TRIOXIDE, SODIUM OXIDE AND POTASSIUM OXIDE sample material. Report as equivalent percentage of sodium
oxide (Na2O), calculated as follows:
15. Procedure
15.1 Determine the percentages of these oxides as required Equivalent Na 2 O, % 5 Na2 O, %10.658 3 K 2 O, % (3)
in accordance with the applicable sections of Test Methods
C114 for materials having an insoluble residue greater than AMMONIA
1 % (Note 6). Analysts performing sodium oxide and potas-
sium oxide determinations shall observe the precautions out- 18. Procedure
lined in the applicable section of Test Methods C114. Most 18.1 Weigh 1.00 g of the fly ash sample into a 125-mL
pozzolans dissolve completely in lithium borate fluxes. Erlenmeyer flask. Add 100 mL of ammonia-free water. Place a
NOTE 6—Rapid and instrumental methods may be employed similar to neoprene rubber stopper on the flask and swirl the contents to
those in Test Methods C114 and D4326. thoroughly mix the sample and the water.

&RS\ULJKWE\$670,QW O DOOULJKWVUHVHUYHG 0RQ$XJ*07

4
'RZQORDGHGSULQWHGE\
)XQGDFLRQ8QLYHUVLGDG'HO1RUWHSXUVXDQWWR/LFHQVH$JUHHPHQW1RIXUWKHUUHSURGXFWLRQVDXWKRUL]HG
 C311/C311M − 22
18.2 Filter the mixture using a medium-textured filter paper R C 5 R S 1CF (6)
and save the filtrate for the ammonia determination.
where:
18.3 Determine the concentration of ammonia in the filtrate RC = corrected sieve residue, %,
in accordance with the procedures outlined in Test Methods RS = observed residue for the test sample, %, and
D1426, Method A–Direct Nesslerization or Method B–Selec- CF = the sieve correction factor, %.
tive Ion Electrode. If the residue retained for the test sample is equal to zero
18.4 Calculate the ammonia concentration of the fly ash as (RS = 0), then the sieve correction factor shall not be added to
follows: the test result to calculate the corrected sieve residue. In such
Ammonia, mg/kg 5 N W 3 V W /W fa (4) cases, the corrected fineness shall be reported as zero.
where: NOTE 10—Test Method C430 has been adopted for testing fly ash
fineness. However, certain requirements, such as cleaning of sieves and
NW = ammonia concentration of the water extract deter- interpretation of the test results, are sometimes not appropriate for fly
mined by Test Methods D1426, mg/L, ashes.
VW = volume of water used for extracting ammonia from 20.2 Numerical examples for calibrating a fineness sieve
the fly ash sample, mL, and and calculating the corrected fineness.
Wfa = mass of fly ash sample used in the test, g. 20.2.1 Calibrating a fineness sieve (NIST standard reference
PHYSICAL TESTS material SRM 114p was used in this example):
Certified residue retained on a 45 2 µm sieve
DENSITY 58.24 % ~ obtained from standard certificate!
Measured residue retained on a 45 2 µm sieve
19. Procedure
57.12 % ~ measured in the laboratory!
19.1 Determine the density of the sample in accordance
Correction factor ~ CF!
with the procedure described in Test Method C188 or Test
Method C604 as modified below. 5standard value ~ std! 2 observed value ~ obs!
58.24 2 7.12 5 1.12 %
19.2 For Test Method C188, follow the procedure except
use a quantity of fly ash or natural pozzolan weighed to the 20.2.2 Calculating a corrected fineness value for a cali-
nearest 0.05 g, of about 50 g. brated sieve (fly ash A was used in this example):
19.3 For Test Method C604 use an amount of material that Amount of fly ash A retained on the sieve:R s
is appropriate for the instrument. 515.2 % ~ expressed as a % of sample mass!
19.3.1 Determine the density of the material as received. Do Corrected sieve residue for fly ash A:R c
not prepare sample as described in Section 6 of Test Method 5R s 1CF
C604. 515.211.12
19.4 In the final report of the density value, indicate which 516.3 %
test method was used in measuring density.
INCREASE OF DRYING SHRINKAGE OF MORTAR BARS
FINENESS, AMOUNT RETAINED WHEN WET-SIEVED ON
A45-µm (NO. 325) SIEVE 21. Test Specimen
21.1 Prepare test specimens in accordance with the proce-
20. Procedure dures described in Test Method C157/C157M, except mold
three mortar bars from both the control mix and the test mix
20.1 Determine the amount of the sample retained when
using the following proportions:
wet-sieved on a 45 µm (No. 325) sieve, in accordance with Test
Method C430, with the following exceptions.
20.1.1 Calibrate the 45-µm (No. 325) sieve using a cement
standard (SRM 114). Calculate the sieve correction factors as Control Mix Test Mix
Portland cement, g 500 500
follows: Fly ash or natural None 125
pozzolan, g
Graded standard 1375 1250
CF 5 std 2 obs (5) sand, g
Water sufficient to produce a flow of 100 to 115 %
where:
CF = the sieve correction factor, %, (include a negative
sign when appropriate),
std = the certified residue value for the SRM, %, and 22. Procedure
obs = the observed residue value for the SRM, %. 22.1 Cure and measure the test specimens in accordance
20.1.2 Calculate the fineness of the fly ash or natural with Test Method C157/C157M, except that the moist-curing
pozzolan to the nearest 0.1 % as follows: period (including the period in the molds) shall be 7 days, and
the comparator reading at the age of 24 h 6 1⁄2 h shall be

&RS\ULJKWE\$670,QW O DOOULJKWVUHVHUYHG 0RQ$XJ*07

5
'RZQORDGHGSULQWHGE\
)XQGDFLRQ8QLYHUVLGDG'HO1RUWHSXUVXDQWWR/LFHQVH$JUHHPHQW1RIXUWKHUUHSURGXFWLRQVDXWKRUL]HG
 C311/C311M − 22
omitted. Immediately after taking the comparator reading at the Test Mix
end of the 7-day moist-curing period, store the specimens in Portland cement, g 300
Fly ash or natural pozzolan 75
accordance with Test Method C157/C157M, and after 28 days 20–30 standard sand, g 1125
of air storage, take a comparator reading for the specimens in Water, mL, sufficient to give a flow of 80 to 95 Y
accordance with Test Method C157/C157M. Neutralized Vinsol resin solution, mL,A sufficient Z
to produce an air content of 18 % ± 3 %
A
The amount of Vinsol resin solution used shall be considered as part of
23. Calculation and Report the mixing water.
23.1 Calculate the increase in drying shrinkage of the
mortar bars, Si, as follows:
25.2 The neutralized Vinsol resin solution used in this
Si 5 St 2 Sc (7) section on Air-Entrainment of Mortar shall be either a com-
mercial neutralized Vinsol resin solution or a neutralized
where: Vinsol resin solution prepared in accordance with Specification
St = average drying shrinkage of the test specimens calcu- C226. If it is necessary to dilute either of these solutions, use
lated as follows, and distilled or demineralized water. (Note 11.)
Sc = average drying shrinkage of the control specimens
NOTE 11—Dissolved minerals in drinking water may precipitate Vinsol
calculated as follows: resin solutions and greatly diminish its air-entraining characteristics.
@ initial CRD 2 CRD# 3 100 25.3 Prepare two test mixtures with sufficient neutralized
S5 (8)
G Vinsol resin to produce an air content of 15 % to 18 % in the
where: first mix and 18 % to 21 % in the second mix. Then, determine
S = drying shrinkage of test or control specimens, by interpolation the amount of Vinsol resin, expressed as mass
%, percent of the cement, required to produce an air content of
initial CRD = difference between the comparator reading of 18 %.
the specimen and the reference bar at 7 days
26. Calculation
of moist curing,
CRD = difference between the comparator reading of 26.1 Calculate the air content of the test mixtures as
the specimen and the reference bar at 28 days follows:
of drying, and
G = the gage length of the specimens 250 mm (10 Air content, volume % 5 100@ 1 2 ~ W a /W c !# (9)
in.).
W a 5 W/400 (10)
23.2 Report the results to the nearest 0.01. If the average
300111251751 ~ 300 3 P 3 0.01!
drying shrinkage of the control specimens is larger than the Wc 5 (11)
average drying shrinkage of the test specimens, prefix a minus
sign to the increase of drying shrinkage of mortar bars
FS D S D S D S
300
3.15
1
1125
2.65
1
75
D
1
300 3 P 3 0.01
1 DG
reported. where:
Wa = actual mass per unit of volume of mortar as determined
SOUNDNESS
by Test Method C185, g/mL,
24. Procedure W = mass of the specified 400 mL of mortar (see Test
Method C185), g,
24.1 Conduct the soundness test in accordance with Test Wc = theoretical mass per unit of volume, calculated on an
Method C151/C151M, except the specimens shall be molded air-free basis and using the values for density and
from a paste composed of water, the fly ash or natural pozzolan quantities of the materials in the mix, g/mL,
being tested, and portland cement conforming to Specification P = percentage of mixing water plus Vinsol resin solution
C150/C150M. The quantity of fly ash or natural pozzolan shall based on mass of cement, and
be 20 % by mass of the total cementitious material. D = density of fly ash or natural pozzolan in the mixture,
Mg/m3.
AIR-ENTRAINMENT OF MORTAR
STRENGTH ACTIVITY INDEX WITH PORTLAND CEMENT
25. Procedure
25.1 Using portland cement conforming to the requirements 27. Specimens
for Type I or Type II of Specification C150/C150M, prepare a 27.1 Mold the specimens from a control mixture and from a
test mixture in accordance with Test Method C185, using the test mixture in accordance with Test Method C109/C109M.
following proportions: The portland cement used in the Strength Activity Index test

&RS\ULJKWE\$670,QW O DOOULJKWVUHVHUYHG 0RQ$XJ*07

6
'RZQORDGHGSULQWHGE\
)XQGDFLRQ8QLYHUVLGDG'HO1RUWHSXUVXDQWWR/LFHQVH$JUHHPHQW1RIXUWKHUUHSURGXFWLRQVDXWKRUL]HG
 C311/C311M − 22
shall comply with the requirements of Specification C150/ where:
C150M and with the alkali and strength limits given in the A = average compressive strength of test mixture cubes,
section on Materials. In the test mixture, replace 20 % of the MPa (psi), and
mass of the amount of cement used in the control mixture by B = average compressive strength of control mix cubes,
the same mass of the test sample. Make six-cube batches as MPa (psi).
follows:
27.1.1 Control Mixture:

WATER REQUIREMENT
500 g of portland cement
1375 g of graded standard sand 31. Calculation
242 mL of water
31.1 Calculate the water requirement for the Strength Ac-
tivity Index with Portland Cement as follows:
27.1.2 Test Mixture: Water requirement, percentage of control =
(Y/242 × 100) (12)
where:
400 g of portland cement Y = water required for the test mixture to be 65 of control
100 g of test sample
1375 g of graded standard sand flow.
mL of water required for flow ± 5 of control mixture
EFFECTIVENESS OF FLY ASH OR NATURAL POZZOLAN
IN CONTROLLING ALKALI SILICA-REACTIONS (SEE
Appendix X1)
27.2 Number of Specimens:
27.2.1 Since Specification C618 specifies that “meeting the 32. Procedure
7 day or 28 day Strength Activity Index will indicate specifi-
cation compliance” only one age might be required. At the 32.1 Determine the expansion of a test mortar mixture,
option of the producer or the user after preparing six-cube made with fly ash or natural pozzolan and a test port-
batches, only three cubes of control and test mixtures need to land cement, as a percent of expansion of a control mor-
be molded for either 7 day or 28 day testing. tar mixture made with a control portland cement, in accordance
with Test Method C441/C441M as modified in the following
28. Storage of Specimens paragraphs:
32.1.1 Control Mixture— The control mixture will be made
28.1 After molding, place the specimens and molds (on the as required in Test Method C441/C441M except that the
base plates) in the moist room or closet at 23.0 °C 6 2.0 °C control cement shall have a total equivalent alkali content less
[73.4 °F 6 3 °F] for 20 h to 24 h. While in the moist room or than 0.60 % (Note 13).
closet, protect the surface from dripping water. Remove the
molds from the moist room or closet and remove the cubes NOTE 13—Generally, the control cement should have a total equivalent
from the molds. Place and store the cubes in saturated lime alkali content between 0.50 % and 0.60 %. However, lower alkali control
cement may be used, if desired, to demonstrate equivalence.
water as specified in Test Method C109/C109M.
32.1.2 Test Mixture Using Fly Ash or Natural Pozzolan—
NOTE 12—Take care to ensure against zones of stratification or pockets The combined quantity of cement plus fly ash or natural
of variation in temperature in the curing chamber.
pozzolan shall total 400 g (see Appendix X1). Use 900 g of
29. Compressive Strength Test borosilicate glass aggregate and sufficient mixing water to
produce a flow between 100 % and 115 % as determined in
29.1 Determine the compressive strength, as specified in accordance with Test Method C1437. The cement used in the
Test Method C109/C109M, of three specimens of the control test mixture shall have a total equivalent alkali content greater
mixture and three specimens of the test mixture at ages of 7 than that of the cement in the control mixture (Note 14).
days, or 28 days, or both, depending upon how many speci-
mens were molded as prescribed in the section on Number of NOTE 14—Generally, this test cement will have a total equivalent alkali
content equal to or higher than that used in the job.
Specimens.
32.1.3 Store and measure specimens as required in Test
30. Calculation Method C227. Measure length of specimens at ages of 1 and 14
30.1 Calculate the strength activity index with portland days.
cement as follows:
33. Report
Strength activity index with portland cement = 33.1 Include in the report for each test mixture comparison
(A/B) × 100 (11) made:
33.1.1 The 14 day expansion of the test mixture as a percent
of the control mixture at that age,

&RS\ULJKWE\$670,QW O DOOULJKWVUHVHUYHG 0RQ$XJ*07

7
'RZQORDGHGSULQWHGE\
)XQGDFLRQ8QLYHUVLGDG'HO1RUWHSXUVXDQWWR/LFHQVH$JUHHPHQW1RIXUWKHUUHSURGXFWLRQVDXWKRUL]HG
 C311/C311M − 22
33.1.2 The identification and chemical analysis of the fly 34.6 For either Procedure A or B, store and measure
ash or natural pozzolan, specimens as required in Test Method C1012/C1012M for at
33.1.3 The mass percentage of fly ash or natural pozzolan least 6 months.
based on the total mass of cement plus fly ash or natural NOTE 16—Evaluation of the sulfate resistance of cementitious materials
pozzolan in the test mixture, and for use in certain situations or critical structures may require longer
33.1.4 The total equivalent alkali contents of the portland periods of storage and additional length measurements. Refer to Test
Method C1012/C1012M for guidance on this matter.
cements used in the control and test mixtures.
35. Report
EFFECTIVENESS OF FLY ASH OR NATURAL POZZOLAN
IN CONTRIBUTING TO SULFATE RESISTANCE 35.1 In addition to the information required in Test Method
C1012/C1012M, report the following information for each
34. Procedure mixture comparison made:
34.1 Compare the length change of mortar bars with abso- 35.2 For Procedure A, the age and expansion as a specific
lute expansion limits or compare the length change of mortar amount,
bars made with a control cement with the length change of 35.3 For Procedure B, the age and expansion as a percent of
mortar bars made with fly ash or natural pozzolan and a test the control mixture at that age,
cement, in accordance with Test Method C1012/C1012M, as 35.4 The identification and chemical analysis including C3A
modified in the following paragraphs. Results shall be evalu- content of the cements used in both the control and test
ated using absolute limits (Procedure A) or the relative mixtures,
expansion limits (Procedure B) in Specification C618,
Table 2A. 35.5 The identification and chemical analysis of the fly ash
or natural pozzolan used in the test mixtures,
34.2 Control Mixture for Procedure A—A control mixture is 35.6 The mass percentages of the fly ash or natural pozzolan
not mandatory since performance measured using Procedure A based on the total mass of cement plus fly ash or natural
is based on maximum expansion of the test mixture. If a pozzolan in the test mixture.
control mixture is made for Procedure A then proportion it as
required in Test Method C1012/C1012M using a cement PRECISION AND BIAS
meeting the requirements of Specification C150/C150M, Type
II or Type V. 36. Precision and Bias
34.3 Test Mixture Using Fly Ash or Natural Pozzolan for 36.1 Strength Activity Index Test:
Procedure A—Make the combined quantity of cement plus fly 36.1.1 Precision was determined from two interlaboratory
ash or natural pozzolan, by mass, the same as the total cement studies involving two Class C fly ashes, two Class F fly ashes,
content of the control mixture described in the Making Mortars and one Class N pozzolan. Participating laboratories numbered
section of Test Method C1012/C1012M. The proportion of fly 12 and 7 in the two studies.5
ash or natural pozzolan may be varied using from 15 % to 36.1.2 The single-operator standard deviation for the
50 %, by mass, of the total cement plus fly ash or natural Strength Activity Index test has been found to be 3.7 % (1s).
pozzolan. Any type of portland cement may be used to prepare This does not appear to vary either with material or with test
test mixtures. age, over the range of 7 days to 28 days. Therefore, results of
two properly conducted tests by the same operator on the same
34.4 Control Mixture for Procedure B—Make the control
mixture for Procedure B as required in Test Method C1012/
C1012M with the cement that is proposed for use in the project 5
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may
or a cement that through performance or definition (Specifica- be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:C09-1001.
tion C150/C150M, Section 1) is expected to give satisfactory
results (or a cement for which the contribution to sulfate TABLE 2 Within and Between Lab Precision Estimates for C114
resistance is known and is satisfactory). Methods Applied to the Analysis of Fly AshA
1s d2s
NOTE 15—The control cement should be chosen to give sulfate Oxide
W/L B/L W/L B/L
resistance for the expected level of sulfate exposure. Experience has
shown that Type II cements are often used for moderate levels of SiO2 0.62 0.86 1.75 2.45
exposure. Type V cement is commonly used for severe exposures (see Al2O3 1.46 2.29 4.12 6.48
Fe2O3
X2.2 of Appendix X2).
<2 % 0.12 0.11 0.34 0.31
$2 % 0.12 0.25 0.34 0.71
34.5 Test Mixture for Using Fly Ash or Natural Pozzolan for
CaO 0.63 0.74 1.79 2.09
Procedure B—Make the combined quantity of cement plus fly MgO 0.20 0.21 0.55 0.61
ash or natural pozzolan, by mass, the same as the total cement SO3 0.10 0.16 0.28 0.45
Moisture 0.05 0.06 0.15 0.17
used in the control mixture. The proportion of fly ash or natural LOI 0.09 0.12 0.25 0.35
pozzolan may be varied from 15 % to 50 % of the total cement A
The four values for SO3 were editorially corrected to reflect updated research
plus fly ash or natural pozzolan by mass. Any type of portland reports associated with this standard.
cement may be used to prepare test mixtures.

&RS\ULJKWE\$670,QW O DOOULJKWVUHVHUYHG 0RQ$XJ*07

8
'RZQORDGHGSULQWHGE\
)XQGDFLRQ8QLYHUVLGDG'HO1RUWHSXUVXDQWWR/LFHQVH$JUHHPHQW1RIXUWKHUUHSURGXFWLRQVDXWKRUL]HG
 C311/C311M − 22
material should not differ by more than 10.5 % (d2s) of the of maximum differences expected between duplicate determi-
average of the two results. nations in 95 % of comparisons7 are summarized in Table 2.
36.1.3 The multilaboratory standard deviation for the 36.2.3 Bias—Statistically significant bias was found in the
Strength Activity Index test has been found to be 4.5 % (1s). determination of CaO and MgO. CaO determinations averaged
This does not appear to vary either with material or with test 0.46 % higher than the value certified for the SRM. MgO
age, over the range of 7 days to 28 days. Therefore, results of determinations averaged 0.19 % higher than the value certified
two properly conducted tests in different laboratories on the for the SRM.
same material should not differ by more than 12.7 % (d2s) of 36.3 Ammonia:
the average of the two results. 36.3.1 Precision of Method A (Direct Nesslerization)—The
36.1.4 Since there is no accepted reference material suitable single-laboratory coefficient of variation (repeatability) has
for determining the bias for this procedure, no statement on been found to be 9.2 % (1s %). The reproducibility of this test
bias is being made. method is being determined.
36.2 Chemical Analysis: 36.3.2 Precision of Method B (Selective Ion Electrode)—
36.2.1 Precision and bias estimates for the test methods in The single-laboratory coefficient of variation (repeatability)
Test Methods C114 when applied to the analysis of pozzolans has been found to be 7.4 % (1s %). The reproducibility of this
were calculated from an interlaboratory study involving 7 test method is being determined.
laboratories each analyzing 4 NIST SRM fly ashes. A research 36.3.3 Bias—Since there is no accepted reference material
report describing the results of this study is available from suitable for determining the bias for these procedures, no
ASTM.6 statement on bias is being made.
36.2.2 Precision—Within-laboratory (W/L) and between-
37. Keywords
laboratory (B/L) estimates of standard deviation and estimates
37.1 fly ash; natural pozzolan

6 7
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may These values represent, respectively, the (1s) and (d2s) limits as described in
be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:C09-1008. Practice C670.

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. COMMENTARY ON SECTION 32

X1.1 Test procedures in Section 32 are designed to deter- X1.4 Selection of the Percentage of Fly Ash or Natural
mine the effectiveness of fly ash, or natural pozzolan, in Pozzolan—It may be necessary to make test mixtures with
preventing excessive expansion resulting from a reaction several percentages of fly ash or natural pozzolan to determine
between certain aggregates and alkalies in portland-cement the minimum amount necessary to be considered “effective” in
mixtures. Tests are made in accordance with Test Method reducing expansion to the level produced by the “control”
C441/C441M using: portland cement. The minimum amount of fly ash or natural
X1.1.1 400 g of portland cement or a combined total of pozzolan should be 15 % by mass of cementitious material.
cement plus fly ash or natural pozzolan of 400 g, X1.5 Selection of the Alkali Content of the Cement Used in
X1.1.2 900 g of borosilicate glass, and the Test Mixture—In some instances it may not be necessary to
X1.1.3 Sufficient water to obtain a flow of 100 to 115 %. demonstrate that the fly ash or natural pozzolan will reduce
expansion, but rather that it will not increase expansion. In this
X1.2 The control mixture is made with a portland cement instance the test and control mixtures should be made with the
with less than 0.60 % total equivalent alkalies. The test same portland cement used in the control mixture to better
mixture, made of a test percentage of the fly ash or natural delineate any increase in expansion. The fly ash or natural
pozzolan, can be made with the same cement or any other pozzolan percentage used may need to be sufficiently high to
cement having a total equivalent alkali content greater than demonstrate that the percentage exceeds the pessimum if such
0.60 %. pessimum exists for the combination.

X1.3 Interpretation of Results—The fly ash or natural X1.6 Selection of the Control Portland Cement—The test
pozzolan should be considered “effective” when used at procedure in this test method is designed to measure the
percentages equal to or greater than the percentages used in the relative effectiveness of the fly ash or natural pozzolan in
test mixture with cements having total equivalent alkali con- reducing expansion due to alkali-silica reactions. The effec-
tents that do not exceed by more than 0.05 percentage points tiveness is a function of both the total equivalent alkali content
the total equivalent alkali content of the cement used in the test of the cement used in the test mixture and the percentage of fly
mixture. ash or natural pozzolan. The higher the total equivalent alkali

&RS\ULJKWE\$670,QW O DOOULJKWVUHVHUYHG 0RQ$XJ*07

9
'RZQORDGHGSULQWHGE\
)XQGDFLRQ8QLYHUVLGDG'HO1RUWHSXUVXDQWWR/LFHQVH$JUHHPHQW1RIXUWKHUUHSURGXFWLRQVDXWKRUL]HG
 C311/C311M − 22
content of the test mixture cement and the lower the percentage required to control the expansive reactions of the aggregates
of fly ash or natural pozzolan used, the more effective the fly being used, for example in the 0.50 to 0.60 % range.
ash or natural pozzolan. This test procedure can be used as a
guide to enhance field performance of job mixtures if it is X1.6.1 Certain reactive aggregates have been identified
assumed that use of the control portland cement will prevent which produce deleterious expansion after many years of
excessive expansion in service with materials proposed for use service when used with cements with total equivalent alkali
in the job. This is the situation when the aggregates proposed contents well below 0.60 %. Often these reactive aggregates do
for use contain rapidly reactive constituents but do not exceed not produce expansions in Test Method C227 exceeding those
0.05 % expansion in three months or 0.10 % expansion in six discussed in X1.6 until a much later age, perhaps one or two
months when tested with the control cement in Test Method years. In such instances the use of a control portland cement
C227. In such instances the control cement used in this test with a total equivalent alkali content significantly less than
method should have a total equivalent alkali content as 0.60 % is appropriate.

X2. COMMENTARY ON SECTION 34

X2.1 The test procedures in Section 34 are designed to addition of fly ash or natural pozzolan influences sulfate
evaluate the performance of particular fly ashes or natural resistance. However, as referenced in Test Method C1012/
pozzolans in contributing to the resistance or durability of C1012M, research has indicated that mortars meeting the
concrete in a sulfate environment. Tests are made on mortars in expansion criteria will perform adequately. Under Procedure B,
accordance with Test Method C1012/C1012M. the fly ash or natural pozzolan will be considered to be able to
contribute to sulfate resistance if the expansion of the test
X2.2 The control mixture should be made with a cement mixture does not exceed that of the control mixture at an
that by performance or definition (Specification C150/C150M, exposure time of at least 6 months. It is recommended that the
Section 1.1) is expected to give satisfactory results for the proportion of fly ash or natural pozzolan used in the test
anticipated level of sulfate exposure. ACI 201.2R recommends mixture be the same one proposed for use in the project 62 %,
Type II cement when the sulfate content, expressed as SO4, is and that the C3A content of the project cement be equal to, or
0.10 to 0.20 percent in soils or 150 to 1500 ppm in waters. ACI less than, that which was used in the test mixtures. See
201.2R recommends Type V cements when the sulfate content, Appendix X1, Technical Background, Test Method C1012/
expressed as SO4, is 0.20 % to 2.0 % in soils, or 1500 ppm to C1012M.
10 000 ppm in waters. The test mixtures for both procedures
may be made with varying percentages of fly ash or natural X2.4 Selection of the Percentage of Fly Ash or Natural
pozzolan. Test mixtures can use cements with equal or higher Pozzolan—It may be necessary to make test mixtures with
or lower C3A contents that might not have given satisfactory several percentages of fly ash or natural pozzolan to determine
results when used alone. the amount necessary to obtain adequate resistance to different
concentrations of sulfates. Percentages used in a project should
X2.3 Interpretation of Results—The absolute expansion be within 2 % of those that are successful in the test mixtures
limits used in Procedure A make it difficult to ascertain how the or should be between two percentages that are successful.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee C09 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(C311/C311M – 18) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved February 1, 2022.)

(1) Revised 32.1, 33.1.4, X1.2, X1.4, X1.5, X1.6 and X1.6.1 to
address text related to alkali contents of portland cements.

&RS\ULJKWE\$670,QW O DOOULJKWVUHVHUYHG 0RQ$XJ*07

10
'RZQORDGHGSULQWHGE\
)XQGDFLRQ8QLYHUVLGDG'HO1RUWHSXUVXDQWWR/LFHQVH$JUHHPHQW1RIXUWKHUUHSURGXFWLRQVDXWKRUL]HG
 C311/C311M − 22
ASTM International takes no position respecting the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any item mentioned
in this standard. Users of this standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk
of infringement of such rights, are entirely their own responsibility.

This standard is subject to revision at any time by the responsible technical committee and must be reviewed every five years and
if not revised, either reapproved or withdrawn. Your comments are invited either for revision of this standard or for additional standards
and should be addressed to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the
responsible technical committee, which you may attend. If you feel that your comments have not received a fair hearing you should
make your views known to the ASTM Committee on Standards, at the address shown below.

This standard is copyrighted by ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959,
United States. Individual reprints (single or multiple copies) of this standard may be obtained by contacting ASTM at the above
address or at 610-832-9585 (phone), 610-832-9555 (fax), or [email protected] (e-mail); or through the ASTM website
(www.astm.org). Permission rights to photocopy the standard may also be secured from the Copyright Clearance Center, 222
Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923, Tel: (978) 646-2600; http://www.copyright.com/

&RS\ULJKWE\$670,QW O DOOULJKWVUHVHUYHG 0RQ$XJ*07

11
'RZQORDGHGSULQWHGE\
)XQGDFLRQ8QLYHUVLGDG'HO1RUWHSXUVXDQWWR/LFHQVH$JUHHPHQW1RIXUWKHUUHSURGXFWLRQVDXWKRUL]HG