ASTM C139-23
(Specification)Standard Specification for Concrete Masonry Units for Construction of Catch Basins and Manholes
Standard Specification for Concrete Masonry Units for Construction of Catch Basins and Manholes
ABSTRACT
This specification covers solid precast segmental concrete masonry units made from hydraulic cement, water, and suitable mineral aggregates, with or without the inclusion of other materials. The units are intended for use in the construction of catch basins and manholes. All units shall be sound and free of cracks or other defects that interfere with the proper placing of the unit.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers solid precast segmental concrete masonry units made from hydraulic cement, water, and suitable mineral aggregates, with or without the inclusion of other materials. The units are intended for use in the construction of catch basins and manholes.
1.2 The text of this standard referenced 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.
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.4 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
- 30-Nov-2023
- Technical Committee
- C15 - Masonry – Manufactured Masonry Units, Mortars and Grouts
- Drafting Committee
- C15.03 - Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2024
- Effective Date
- 15-Dec-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2022
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2021
Overview
ASTM C139-23 is the recognized standard specification for solid precast segmental concrete masonry units designed for constructing catch basins and manholes. Published by ASTM International, this standard ensures that concrete masonry units (CMUs) used in critical underground infrastructure meet stringent quality, safety, and performance criteria. The specification covers requirements for materials, physical properties, dimensions, permissible variations, and compliance testing, thereby supporting robust, long-lasting installations for water management and sewer systems.
The standard’s scope includes units made with hydraulic cement, water, and suitable mineral aggregates-with or without additional constituents-ensuring flexibility in design while maintaining performance integrity. Compliance with ASTM C139-23 helps manufacturers, contractors, and specifiers achieve reliable, defect-free installations that conform to U.S. Department of Defense and international guidelines.
Key Topics
Material Specifications
- CMUs must utilize hydraulic cement, water, and suitable aggregates.
- Allowances for additives, including pigments, pozzolans, blast furnace slag cement, and silica fume.
- All materials must comply with referenced ASTM standards, including those for aggregates, cement types, and coloring agents.
Physical Requirements
- Units must be sound, solid, and free from cracks or defects that could impact installation or durability.
- Compressive strength and water absorption limits are clearly defined to ensure long-term structural performance.
- Minimum unit thickness and permissible dimensional tolerances are specified for consistent quality.
Sampling and Testing
- Units are subject to inspection, sampling, and testing in accordance with ASTM C140/C140M.
- Compressive strength, density, and absorption are verified by standardized tests, usually within 12 months before delivery.
- Non-conforming units or lots may be retested according to outlined procedures.
Compliance and Inspection
- Minor incidental cracks or chipping during handling are not grounds for rejection.
- Shipment compliance is determined by sample testing-no more than 5% of a shipment can be non-conforming.
- Costs of testing are outlined based on the outcome of the compliance assessment.
Applications
Utilizing ASTM C139-23 standard concrete masonry units is essential for:
Construction of Catch Basins
- Ensuring reliable, water-tight infrastructure for surface water runoff management in urban, commercial, and industrial environments.
Manhole Construction
- Providing robust, defect-free access points for sewer and utility networks, supporting ongoing maintenance and inspection.
Municipal and Industrial Infrastructure
- Supporting essential public works, including stormwater management systems, wastewater treatment plants, and underground utility installations.
Compliance in Government Projects
- Meeting specifications required by agencies such as the U.S. Department of Defense and supporting regulatory and procurement requirements for infrastructure projects.
Related Standards
The following ASTM standards are referenced within ASTM C139-23 and may be required for full compliance:
- C33/C33M - Specification for Concrete Aggregates
- C140/C140M - Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units
- C150/C150M - Specification for Portland Cement
- C595/C595M - Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
- C618 - Specification for Coal Fly Ash and Pozzolan
- C979/C979M - Specification for Pigments for Integrally Colored Concrete
- C989/C989M - Specification for Slag Cement
- C1157/C1157M - Specification for Hydraulic Cement
- C1240 - Specification for Silica Fume Used in Cementitious Mixtures
- C1232 - Terminology for Masonry
Adhering to these related standards ensures comprehensive quality and compatibility, facilitating robust and reliable construction of catch basins and manholes.
Keywords: ASTM C139-23, concrete masonry units, catch basins, manholes, infrastructure, construction standards, CMU specification, water management, sewer systems, ASTM masonry standards
Buy Documents
ASTM C139-23 - Standard Specification for Concrete Masonry Units for Construction of Catch Basins and Manholes
REDLINE ASTM C139-23 - Standard Specification for Concrete Masonry Units for Construction of Catch Basins and Manholes
Get Certified
Connect with accredited certification bodies for this standard
ICC Evaluation Service
Building products evaluation and certification.
QAI Laboratories
Building and construction product testing and certification.
Aboma Certification B.V.
Specialized in construction, metal, and transport sectors.
Sponsored listings
Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM C139-23 is a technical specification published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Specification for Concrete Masonry Units for Construction of Catch Basins and Manholes". This standard covers: ABSTRACT This specification covers solid precast segmental concrete masonry units made from hydraulic cement, water, and suitable mineral aggregates, with or without the inclusion of other materials. The units are intended for use in the construction of catch basins and manholes. All units shall be sound and free of cracks or other defects that interfere with the proper placing of the unit. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers solid precast segmental concrete masonry units made from hydraulic cement, water, and suitable mineral aggregates, with or without the inclusion of other materials. The units are intended for use in the construction of catch basins and manholes. 1.2 The text of this standard referenced 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. 1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.4 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 solid precast segmental concrete masonry units made from hydraulic cement, water, and suitable mineral aggregates, with or without the inclusion of other materials. The units are intended for use in the construction of catch basins and manholes. All units shall be sound and free of cracks or other defects that interfere with the proper placing of the unit. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers solid precast segmental concrete masonry units made from hydraulic cement, water, and suitable mineral aggregates, with or without the inclusion of other materials. The units are intended for use in the construction of catch basins and manholes. 1.2 The text of this standard referenced 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. 1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.4 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 C139-23 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 91.100.30 - Concrete and concrete products. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM C139-23 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM C139-22, ASTM C989/C989M-24, ASTM C1232-23, ASTM C140/C140M-23a, ASTM C140/C140M-23, ASTM C989/C989M-22, ASTM C1232-21a. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM C139-23 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: C139 − 23
Standard Specification for
Concrete Masonry Units for Construction of Catch Basins
and Manholes
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C139; 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* C618 Specification for Coal Ash and Raw or Calcined
Natural Pozzolan for Use in Concrete
1.1 This specification covers solid precast segmental con-
C979/C979M Specification for Pigments for Integrally Col-
crete masonry units made from hydraulic cement, water, and
ored Concrete
suitable mineral aggregates, with or without the inclusion of
C989/C989M Specification for Slag Cement for Use in
other materials. The units are intended for use in the construc-
Concrete and Mortars
tion of catch basins and manholes.
C1157/C1157M Performance Specification for Hydraulic
1.2 The text of this standard referenced notes and footnotes
Cement
that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes
C1232 Terminology for Masonry
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered
C1240 Specification for Silica Fume Used in Cementitious
as requirements of the standard.
Mixtures
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical 3. Terminology
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
3.1 Terminology defined in Terminology C1232 shall apply
and are not considered standard.
for this specification.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
4. Materials
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
4.1 Cementitious Materials—Cementitious materials shall
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
conform to the following applicable specifications:
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
4.1.1 Portland Cement—Specification C150/C150M.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
4.1.2 Modified Portland Cement—Portland cement con-
forming to Specification C150/C150M, modified as follows:
2. Referenced Documents
(1) Limestone—If calcium carbonate is added to the
2.1 ASTM Standards:
cement, the CaCO content shall not be less than 85%.
C33/C33M Specification for Concrete Aggregates
(2) Limitation on Insoluble Residue—1.5 %.
C140/C140M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Con-
(3) Limitation on Air Content of Mortar—Volume percent,
crete Masonry Units and Related Units
22 % max.
C150/C150M Specification for Portland Cement
(4) Limitation on Loss on Ignition—7 %.
C207 Specification for Hydrated Lime for Masonry Pur-
4.1.3 Blended Hydraulic Cements—Specification C595/
poses
C595M.
C595/C595M Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
4.1.4 Hydraulic Cement—Specification C1157/C1157M.
4.1.5 Pozzolans—Specification C618.
4.1.6 Slag Cement—Specification C989/C989M.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C15 on
4.1.7 Silica Fume—Specification C1240.
Manufactured Masonry Units and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
C15.03 on Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units.
4.2 Aggregates—Aggregates shall conform to Specification
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2023. Published December 2023. Originally
approved in 1938. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as C139 –22. DOI: C33/C33M, except for grading requirements.
10.1520/C0139-23.
NOTE 1—The grading requirements of Specifications C33/C33M may
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
not be suitable for concrete masonry production. Because of this,
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 producers are allowed to modify grading to meet their needs and the
the ASTM website. requirements of this specification.
*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
C139 − 23
4.3 Pigments for Integrally Colored Concrete— 7.3 Except as specified in Section 5, and unless otherwise
Specification C979/C979M. agreed, the expense of inspection and testing shall be borne by
the purchaser.
4.4 Other Constituents—Air-entraining agents, integral wa-
ter repellents, and other constituents shall be previously estab-
8. Compliance
lished as suitable for use in concrete masonry units and shall
8.1 Minor cracks, incidental to the usual method of manu-
conform to applicable ASTM standards or shall be shown by
facture or minor chipping resulting from customary methods of
test or experience not to be detrimental to the dur
...
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: C139 − 22 C139 − 23
Standard Specification for
Concrete Masonry Units for Construction of Catch Basins
and Manholes
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C139; 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*
1.1 This specification covers solid precast segmental concrete masonry units made from hydraulic cement, water, and suitable
mineral aggregates, with or without the inclusion of other materials. The units are intended for use in the construction of catch
basins and manholes.
1.2 The text of this standard referenced 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.
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.4 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:
C33/C33M Specification for Concrete Aggregates
C140/C140M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units
C150/C150M Specification for Portland Cement
C207 Specification for Hydrated Lime for Masonry Purposes
C595/C595M Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
C618 Specification for Coal Ash and Raw or Calcined Natural Pozzolan for Use in Concrete
C979/C979M Specification for Pigments for Integrally Colored Concrete
C989/C989M Specification for Slag Cement for Use in Concrete and Mortars
C1157/C1157M Performance Specification for Hydraulic Cement
C1232 Terminology for Masonry
C1240 Specification for Silica Fume Used in Cementitious Mixtures
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C15 on Manufactured Masonry Units and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C15.03 on
Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units.
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2022Dec. 1, 2023. Published January 2023December 2023. Originally approved in 1938. Last previous edition approved in 20172022
as C139 –17. DOI: 10.1520/C0139-22.–22. DOI: 10.1520/C0139-23.
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
C139 − 23
3. Terminology
3.1 Terminology defined in Terminology C1232 shall apply for this specification.
4. Materials
4.1 Cementitious Materials—Cementitious materials shall conform to the following ASTMapplicable specifications:
4.1.1 Portland Cement—Specification C150/C150M.
4.1.2 Modified Portland Cement—Portland cement conforming to Specification C150/C150MC150,, modified as follows:
(1) Limestone—If calcium carbonate is added to the cement, the CaCO content shall not be less than 85%.
(2) Limitation on Insoluble Residue—1.5 %.
(3) Limitation on Air Content of Mortar—Volume percent, 22 % max.
(4) Limitation on Loss on Ignition—7 %.
4.1.3 Blended Hydraulic Cements—Specification C595/C595M.
4.1.4 Hydraulic Cement—Specification C1157/C1157M.
4.1.5 Pozzolans—Specification C618.
4.1.6 Blast Furnace Slag Cement—Specification C989/C989M.
4.1.7 Silica Fume—Specification C1240.
4.2 Aggregates—Aggregates shall conform to Specification C33/C33M, except for grading requirements.
NOTE 1—The grading requirements of Specifications C33/C33M may not be suitable for concrete masonry production. Because of this, producers are
allowed to modify grading to meet their needs and the requirements of this specification.
4.3 Pigments for Integrally Colored Concrete—Specification C979/C979M.
4.4 Other Constituents—Air-entraining agents, integral water repellents, and other constituents shall be previously established as
suitable for use in concrete masonry units and shall conform to applicable ASTM standards or shall be shown by test or experience
not to be detrimental to the durability of the concrete masonry units or any material customarily used in masonry construction.
5. Physical Requirements
5.1 At the time of delivery to the purchaser, the units shall conform to the requirements pres
...
Questions, Comments and Discussion
Ask us and Technical Secretary will try to provide an answer. You can facilitate discussion about the standard in here.
Loading comments...