Standard Test Method for Water Retention of Hydraulic Cement-Based Mortars and Plasters

Abstract

4.1 This test method provides a means for determining the ability of mortars and plasters to retain water under suction. Test results may be used to determine compliance with specifications. 4.2 The results obtained using this test method can be used to compare the relative ability of mortars and plasters to retain water under suction. 4.3 The results obtained using this test method for masonry mortars do not necessarily indicate the degree of water retention when used with masonry units, since the amount of water absorbed by the unit depends on the rate of absorption of the masonry unit. 4.4 The results obtained using this test method for plasters (stucco) do not necessarily indicate the degree of water retention when the plaster is applied as a second coat on the surface of a previously applied plaster base coat, since the amount of water absorbed from the second coat of plaster depends on the rate of absorption of the base coat. This is also true when a plaster is applied as a coating on masonry units.