scope:

This combined new edition of CSA Standards A23.1, Concrete Materials and Methods of Concrete Construction, and A23.2, Methods of Test for Concrete, supersedes the previous editions published in 1929, 1942, 1960, 1967, 1973, 1977, and 1990. These Standards are part of the CSA A23 Series on Concrete and Reinforced Concrete.

Emphasis in this issue continues to be placed on the durability requirements for concrete. Several new test methods for aggregates have been added to the A23.2 Standard. Appendix B dealing with alkali-aggregate reaction was substantially revised by a Subcommittee of the CSA Hydraulic Cement Technical Committee.

Many of the changes incorporated in this edition represent evolving technology. Examples are the requirements for high-strength concrete and a new appendix on fibre-reinforced concrete. The use of either 100 x 200 mm or 150 x 300 mm test cylinders is permitted by this Standard for concrete made with aggregate having a nominal maximum size of 28 mm or less. The objective of this reduction in cylinder size is to reduce waste, to reduce back injuries, and to enable the testing of high-strength concrete without the need to replace existing testing machines.

The contents of CSA Standards A23.1 and A23.2 are based on the principle that the document should be self-contained for use in the field.

The Committee includes representatives from most geographical areas of Canada and from all sectors of the industry: concrete producers, specifying and regulatory authorities, materials consultants, researchers, and teachers.

The Committee intends to review and update the Standards on a continuing basis and to maintain a close liaison with the CSA Technical Committee on Reinforced Concrete Design.

These Standards were prepared by the CSA Technical Committee on Concrete Materials and Construction under the jurisdiction of the Standards Steering Committee on Concrete and were formally approved by these Committees.

Notes:

(1) Use of the singular does not exclude the plural (and vice versa) when the sense allows.

(2) Although the intended primary application of this Standard is stated in its Scope, it is important to note that it remains the responsibility of the users of the Standard to judge its suitability for their particular purpose.

(3) This publication was developed by consensus, which is defined by the CSA Regulations Governing Standardization as "substantial agreement reached by concerned interests. Consensus includes an attempt to remove all objections and implies much more than the concept of a simple majority, but not necessarily unanimity." It is consistent with this definition that a member may be included in the Technical Committee list and yet not be in full agreement with all clauses of the publication.

(4) CSA Standards are subject to periodic review, and suggestions for their improvement will be referred to the appropriate committee.

(5) All enquiries regarding this Standard, including requests for interpretation, should be addressed to Canadian Standards Association, Standards Development, 178 Rexdale Boulevard, Rexdale, Ontario M9W 1R3.

Requests for interpretation should

(a) define the problem, making reference to the specific clause, and, where appropriate, include an illustrative sketch;

(b) provide an explanation of circumstances surrounding the actual field condition; and

(c) be phrased where possible to permit a specific "yes" or "no" answer.

Interpretations are published in CSA's periodical Info Update. For subscription details, write to CSA Sales Promotion, Info Update, at the address given above.