Standard Specification for Plastic (Stucco) Cement

ABSTRACT
This specification covers plastic cements for use in Portland cement-based plasters for exterior (stucco) and interior applications. All the materials should be tested and conform to the required values of fineness, autoclave expansion, time of setting, compressive strength, air content of mortar, and water retention. The cement should be stored in a way that permits easy access and inside a suitable weathertight building.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers two types of plastic cement for use in portland cement-based plasters for exterior (stucco) and interior application.  
1.2 Units—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. Values in SI units shall be obtained by measurement in SI units or by appropriate conversion, using the Rules for Conversion and Rounding given in Standard IEEE/ASTM SI 10, of measurements made in other units. Values are stated in only SI units when inch-pound units are not used in practice.  
1.3 The text of this standard refers to notes and footnotes that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.  
1.4 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to Sections 13 and 14. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.)2  
1.5 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-Dec-2022
Technical Committee
C01 - Cement
Drafting Committee
C01.11 - Masonry Cement

Relations

Effective Date
01-Apr-2024
Effective Date
15-Dec-2023
Effective Date
15-Nov-2023
Effective Date
01-Aug-2020
Effective Date
15-Jul-2020
Effective Date
01-Apr-2020
Effective Date
01-Apr-2020
Effective Date
01-Jan-2020
Effective Date
01-Dec-2019
Effective Date
15-Nov-2019
Effective Date
01-Jun-2019
Effective Date
01-Jun-2019
Effective Date
01-Jun-2019
Effective Date
01-May-2019
Effective Date
01-Aug-2018

Overview

ASTM C1328/C1328M-23: Standard Specification for Plastic (Stucco) Cement provides requirements for two types of plastic cement specifically formulated for portland cement-based plaster applications, commonly referred to as stucco. This standard from ASTM International outlines performance and consistency characteristics to ensure that plastic cement supports high-quality exterior and interior plasterwork in both residential and commercial construction. It is applicable to both SI and inch-pound units, but measurements from different systems are not to be combined.

Plastic (stucco) cement under this standard is a hydraulic cement blend, typically containing portland or blended hydraulic cement and plasticizing materials such as limestone or hydrated lime. The inclusion of these ingredients aims to enhance workability, setting time, water retention, and durability of the finished plaster or stucco system.

Key Topics

  • Scope and Units

    • Covers two types of plastic cement intended for use with portland cement-based plasters in exterior and interior settings.
    • Values may be stated in SI or inch-pound units, but not mixed within a single application.
  • Material Properties and Testing

    • Requirements include fineness, autoclave expansion, setting time, compressive strength, air content, and water retention.
    • Testing methods refer to relevant ASTM documents to ensure uniform results across laboratories and job sites.
  • Quality Assurance

    • Outlines procedures for sampling, storage, and inspection to ensure product compliance.
    • Specifies packaging and labeling requirements for market transparency and traceability.
  • Safety and Handling

    • Highlights the need for appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices due to the caustic nature of fresh plastic cement mixtures.

Applications

  • Exterior Stucco Systems

    • Plastic cement significantly improves the workability, adhesion, and durability of stucco applied to exterior walls. Its plasticizing properties ensure the mixture remains workable for a longer period, allowing for superior floating, densification, and textural finishing.
  • Interior Plastering

    • Used for smooth or textured wall and ceiling plasters where enhanced cohesion and water retention are critical for a uniform finish and strong, stable surfaces.
  • Repair and Restoration

    • Specified for both new construction and restoration projects requiring portland cement-based stucco or plaster. It supports matching of existing finishes with modern performance.
  • Commercial and Residential Construction

    • Relevant for contractors and specifiers in both commercial and residential projects who require reliable plaster and stucco cement meeting recognized industry standards.

Related Standards

  • ASTM C926 - Specification for Application of Portland Cement-Based Plaster, providing guidance for plaster application methods.
  • ASTM C109/C109M - Test Method for Compressive Strength of Hydraulic Cement Mortars.
  • ASTM C151 - Test Method for Autoclave Expansion of Hydraulic Cement.
  • ASTM C305 - Practice for Mechanical Mixing of Hydraulic Cement Pastes and Mortars.
  • ASTM C185 - Test Method for Air Content of Hydraulic Cement Mortar.
  • ASTM C1506 - Test Method for Water Retention of Hydraulic Cement-Based Mortars and Plasters.
  • ASTM C430 - Test Method for Fineness of Hydraulic Cement.

These referenced standards ensure consistency in test methodology and terminology, supporting compliance and interoperability within the construction materials sector.


Keywords: plastic cement, stucco cement, portland cement-based plaster, ASTM C1328, hydraulic cement, exterior plaster, interior plaster, construction standards, mortar properties, fineness, compressive strength, air content, water retention.

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Frequently Asked Questions

ASTM C1328/C1328M-23 is a technical specification published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Specification for Plastic (Stucco) Cement". This standard covers: ABSTRACT This specification covers plastic cements for use in Portland cement-based plasters for exterior (stucco) and interior applications. All the materials should be tested and conform to the required values of fineness, autoclave expansion, time of setting, compressive strength, air content of mortar, and water retention. The cement should be stored in a way that permits easy access and inside a suitable weathertight building. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers two types of plastic cement for use in portland cement-based plasters for exterior (stucco) and interior application. 1.2 Units—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. Values in SI units shall be obtained by measurement in SI units or by appropriate conversion, using the Rules for Conversion and Rounding given in Standard IEEE/ASTM SI 10, of measurements made in other units. Values are stated in only SI units when inch-pound units are not used in practice. 1.3 The text of this standard refers to notes and footnotes that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard. 1.4 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to Sections 13 and 14. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.)2 1.5 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 plastic cements for use in Portland cement-based plasters for exterior (stucco) and interior applications. All the materials should be tested and conform to the required values of fineness, autoclave expansion, time of setting, compressive strength, air content of mortar, and water retention. The cement should be stored in a way that permits easy access and inside a suitable weathertight building. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers two types of plastic cement for use in portland cement-based plasters for exterior (stucco) and interior application. 1.2 Units—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. Values in SI units shall be obtained by measurement in SI units or by appropriate conversion, using the Rules for Conversion and Rounding given in Standard IEEE/ASTM SI 10, of measurements made in other units. Values are stated in only SI units when inch-pound units are not used in practice. 1.3 The text of this standard refers to notes and footnotes that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard. 1.4 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to Sections 13 and 14. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged exposure.)2 1.5 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 C1328/C1328M-23 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 91.100.10 - Cement. Gypsum. Lime. Mortar. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.

ASTM C1328/C1328M-23 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM C219-24, ASTM C109/C109M-23, ASTM C926-23a, ASTM C219-20a, ASTM C305-20, ASTM C219-20, ASTM C185-20, ASTM C926-20, ASTM C185-19, ASTM C219-19a, ASTM C926-19a, ASTM C926-19ae1, ASTM C219-19, ASTM C926-19, ASTM C926-18b. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.

ASTM C1328/C1328M-23 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:C1328/C1328M −23
Standard Specification for
Plastic (Stucco) Cement
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1328/C1328M; 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* 2. Referenced Documents
1.1 This specification covers two types of plastic cement for 2.1 ASTM Standards:
use in portland cement-based plasters for exterior (stucco) and C109/C109M Test Method for Compressive Strength of
Hydraulic Cement Mortars (Using 2-in. or [50 mm] Cube
interior application.
Specimens)
1.2 Units—The values stated in either SI units or inch-
C183/C183M Practice for Sampling and the Amount of
pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The
Testing of Hydraulic Cement
values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents;
C185 Test Method for Air Content of Hydraulic Cement
therefore,eachsystemshallbeusedindependentlyoftheother.
Mortar
Combining values from the two systems may result in non-
C187 Test Method for Amount of Water Required for Nor-
conformance with the standard. Values in SI units shall be
mal Consistency of Hydraulic Cement Paste
obtained by measurement in SI units or by appropriate
C188 Test Method for Density of Hydraulic Cement
conversion, using the Rules for Conversion and Rounding
C219 Terminology Relating to Hydraulic and Other Inor-
given in Standard IEEE/ASTM SI 10, of measurements made
ganic Cements
in other units. Values are stated in only SI units when
C266 Test Method for Time of Setting of Hydraulic-Cement
inch-pound units are not used in practice.
Paste by Gillmore Needles
1.3 The text of this standard refers to notes and footnotes
C305 Practice for Mechanical Mixing of Hydraulic Cement
that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes
Pastes and Mortars of Plastic Consistency
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered
C430 Test Method for Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by the
as requirements of the standard.
45-µm (No. 325) Sieve
1.4 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to C511 Specification for Mixing Rooms, Moist Cabinets,
Moist Rooms, and Water Storage Tanks Used in the
Sections 13 and 14. This standard does not purport to address
Testing of Hydraulic Cements and Concretes
all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is
C778 Specification for Standard Sand
the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish
C926 Specification for Application of Portland Cement-
appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and
Based Plaster
determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to
C1506 Test Method for Water Retention of Hydraulic
use. (Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are
Cement-Based Mortars and Plasters
caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon
IEEE/ASTM SI 10 Standard for Use of the International
prolonged exposure.)
System of Units (SI) (the Modernized Metric System)
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
3. Terminology
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
3.1 Definitions—Termsusedinthisspecificationaredefined
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical in Terminology C219 and Specification C926.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. 3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 plastic cement, n—a hydraulic cement, primarily used
in portland cement-based plastering construction, consisting of
a mixture of portland or blended hydraulic cement and plasti-
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C01 on
cizing materials (such as limestone or hydrated or hydraulic
Cement and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C01.11 on Masonry
Cement.
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2023. Published January 2023. Originally
approved in 1996. Last previous edition approved in 2019 as C1328/C1328M – 19. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
DOI: 10.1520/C1328_C1328M-23. contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.01. See the section on Safety Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Precautions in the Manual of Cement Testing. 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
C1328/C1328M−23
lime), together with other materials introduced to enhance one 9. Time of Setting
or more properties such as setting time, workability, water
9.1 Determine the time of setting by the Gillmore needle
retention, and durability.
method in accordance with Test Method C266.
3.2.1.1 Discussion—The term “plastic” does not refer to the
inclusion of one or more organic components in the cement.
10. Density
The cement is predominantly inorganic in chemical composi-
10.1 Determine the density of the plastic cement in accor-
tion. The term “plastic” refers to the ability of the cement to
dance with Test Method C188, using kerosine as the liquid.
impart to the plaster a high degree of workability, and for the
Use the density so determined in the calculation of the air
plaster to remain workable or plastic for a period of time so
content of the plaster.
that, after initial application and floating on the wall, it can be
reworked to obtain both densification and desired texture.
11. Blended Sand
4. Physical Properties
11.1 The sand shall be a blend of equal parts by weight of
graded standard sand and standard 20–30 sand conforming to
4.1 Plastic cement shall conform to the applicable require-
Specification C778.
ments prescribed in Table 1.
12. Preparation of Plaster
5. Sampling
12.1 Proportions for Plaster—Plaster for air entrainment,
5.1 At the option of the purchaser, the cement shall be
compressive strength, and water retention tests shall be pro-
sampledandtestedtoverifycompliancewiththisspecification,
portioned to contain 1620 g of sand and a mass of plastic
sampling and testing shall be performed in accordance with
(stucco) cement, in grams, as indicated in Table 2. The sand
Practice C183/C183M.
shall consist of 810 g of graded standard sand and 810 g of
5.2 Practice C183/C183M is not designed for manufactur-
20–30 standard sand. The quantity of water, measured in
ing quality control and is not required for manufacturer’s
millilitres, shall be such as to produce a flow of 110 6 5, as
certification.
determined by Test Method C109/C109M.
6. Temperature and Humidity
12.2 Mixing of Plasters—Mixtheplasterinaccordancewith
Practice C305.
6.1 The temperature and relative humidity of the air in the
vicinity of the mixing slab and dry materials, molds, base
12.3 Determination of Flow—Determine the flow in accor-
plates, and mixing bowl shall con
...


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: C1328/C1328M − 19 C1328/C1328M − 23
Standard Specification for
Plastic (Stucco) Cement
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1328/C1328M; 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 two types of plastic cement for use in portland cement-based plasters for exterior (stucco) and interior
application.
1.2 Units—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. Values in SI units shall be obtained by measurement in SI units
or by appropriate conversion, using the Rules for Conversion and Rounding given in Standard IEEE/ASTM SI 10, of
measurements made in other units. Values are stated in only SI units when inch-pound units are not used in practice.
1.3 The text of this standard refers to notes and footnotes that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding
those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the standard.
1.4 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to Sections 1413 and 1514. This standard does not purport to address all
of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate
safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. (Warning—
Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon prolonged
exposure.Warning—Fresh hydraulic cementitious mixtures are caustic and may cause chemical burns to skin and tissue upon
prolonged exposure.))
1.5 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:
C109/C109M Test Method for Compressive Strength of Hydraulic Cement Mortars (Using 2-in. or [50 mm] Cube Specimens)
C151 Test Method for Autoclave Expansion of Hydraulic Cement
C183C183/C183M Practice for Sampling and the Amount of Testing of Hydraulic Cement
C185 Test Method for Air Content of Hydraulic Cement Mortar
C187 Test Method for Amount of Water Required for Normal Consistency of Hydraulic Cement Paste
C188 Test Method for Density of Hydraulic Cement
C219 Terminology Relating to Hydraulic and Other Inorganic Cements
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C01 on Cement and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C01.11 on Masonry Cement.
Current edition approved June 15, 2019Jan. 1, 2023. Published August 2019January 2023. Originally approved in 1996. Last previous edition approved in 20122019 as
C1328 – 12.C1328/C1328M – 19. DOI: 10.1520/C1328_C1328M-19.10.1520/C1328_C1328M-23.
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 04.01. See the section on Safety Precautions in the Manual of Cement Testing.
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 Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on 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
C1328/C1328M − 23
C266 Test Method for Time of Setting of Hydraulic-Cement Paste by Gillmore Needles
C305 Practice for Mechanical Mixing of Hydraulic Cement Pastes and Mortars of Plastic Consistency
C430 Test Method for Fineness of Hydraulic Cement by the 45-μm (No. 325) Sieve
C511 Specification for Mixing Rooms, Moist Cabinets, Moist Rooms, and Water Storage Tanks Used in the Testing of Hydraulic
Cements and Concretes
C778 Specification for Standard Sand
C926 Specification for Application of Portland Cement-Based Plaster
C1506 Test Method for Water Retention of Hydraulic Cement-Based Mortars and Plasters
IEEE/ASTM SI 10 Standard for Use of the International System of Units (SI) (the Modernized Metric System)
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—Terms used in this specification are defined in Terminology C219 and Specification C926.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 plastic cement, n—a hydraulic cement, primarily used in portland cement-based plastering construction, consisting of a
mixture of portland or blended hydraulic cement and plasticizing materials (such as limestone or hydrated or hydraulic lime),
together with other materials introduced to enhance one or more properties such as setting time, workability, water retention, and
durability.
3.2.1.1 Discussion—
The term “plastic” does not refer to the inclusion of one or more organic components in the cement. The cement is predominantly
inorganic in chemical composition. The term “plastic” refers to the ability of the cement to impart to the plaster a high degree of
workability, and for the plaster to remain workable or plastic for a period of time so that, after initial application and floating on
the wall, it can be reworked to obtain both densification and desired texture.
4. Physical Properties
4.1 Plastic cement shall conform to the applicable requirements prescribed in Table 1.
5. Sampling
5.1 At the option of the purchaser, the cement shall be sampled and tested to verify compliance with this specification, sampling
and testing shall be performed in accordance with Practice C183C183/C183M.
5.2 Practice C183C183/C183M is not designed for manufacturing quality control and is not required for manufacturer’s
certification.
6. Temperature and Humidity
6.1 The temperature and relative humidity of the air in the vicinity of the mixing slab and dry materials, molds, base plates, and
mixing bowl shall conform to the requirements of Test Method C109/C109M.
TABLE 1 Physical Requirements
Plastic Cement Type S M
Fineness, residue on a 45-μm (No. 325) sieve, max,% 24 24
Fineness, residue on a 45 μm (No. 325) sieve, max,% 24 24
Autoclave expansion, max, % 1.0 1.0
Time of setting, Gillmore method:
Initial set, minutes, not less than 90 90
Initial set, minutes, not more than 1000 1000
Compressive strength (average of three cubes):
The compressive strength of mortar cubes, composed of 1 part cement and 3 parts blended sand
(half graded standard sand and half standard 20–30 sand) by volume, prepared and tested in accordance
with this specification, shall be equal to or higher than the values specified for the ages indicated below:
7 days, MPa [psi] 9.0 [1300] 12.4
[1800]
28 days, MPa [psi] 14.5 20.0
[2100] [2900]
Air content of mortar:
Min, volume% 8 8
Max, volume % 20 20
Water retention value, min, %, of original flow 70 70
C1328/C1328M − 23
6.2 The moist cabinet or moist room shall conform to the requirements of Specification C511.
7. Fineness
7.1 Determine the residue on the 45-μm45 μm (No. 325) sieve in accordance with Test Method C430.
8. Normal Consistency
8.1 Determine normal consistency by t
...

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