ASTM C129-23
(Specification)Standard Specification for Nonloadbearing Concrete Masonry Units
Standard Specification for Nonloadbearing Concrete Masonry Units
ABSTRACT
This specification covers hollow and solid nonloadbearing concrete masonry units made from Portland cement, water, and mineral aggregates with or without the inclusion of other materials. These units are intended for use in nonloadbearing partitions, but under certain conditions they may be suitable for use in nonloadbearing exterior walls above grade where effectively protected from the weather. Concrete masonry units manufactured under this specification shall conform to the specified density classifications and compressive strength requirements.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers hollow and solid nonloadbearing concrete masonry units made from portland cement, water, and mineral aggregates with or without the inclusion of other materials. These units are intended for use in nonloadbearing partitions, but under certain conditions they may be suitable for use in nonloadbearing exterior walls above grade where effectively protected from the weather.
1.2 The text of this standard references 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.
Note 1: Concrete masonry units covered by this specification are made from lightweight or normal weight aggregates, or both.
Note 2: When particular features are desired, such as density classification, surface texture for appearance or bond, finish, color, fire resistance, insulation, acoustical properties, or other special features, such properties should be specified separately by the purchaser. However, suppliers should be consulted as to the availability of units having the desired features.
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-Jun-2022
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2021
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2023
- Referred By
ASTM C744-21 - Standard Specification for Prefaced Concrete and Calcium Silicate Masonry Units - Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2023
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2023
Overview
ASTM C129-23 - Standard Specification for Nonloadbearing Concrete Masonry Units defines the requirements for hollow and solid nonloadbearing concrete masonry units manufactured from portland cement, water, and mineral aggregates. The standard applies to units intended for use in nonloadbearing partitions and, when specifically protected from the weather, in exterior nonloadbearing walls above grade.
This specification addresses key properties such as density classes, compressive strength, dimensions, permissible variations, and requirements for finish and appearance. By ensuring quality and consistency, ASTM C129-23 supports durable, reliable construction in architectural and structural applications where nonloadbearing elements are prominent.
Key Topics
Materials and Composition:
- Units are manufactured from portland cement, mineral aggregates (lightweight, normal weight, or both), water, and may include other materials such as pigments and supplementary cementitious materials.
- Optional additives such as air-entraining agents and integral water repellents must not impair unit durability.
Density Classifications:
- Units are classified as lightweight, medium weight, or normal weight based on oven-dry density.
- Density values must be specified by purchasers to meet project requirements.
Physical and Dimensional Requirements:
- Prescribes minimum face shell thickness and cross-sectional area for solid units.
- Ensures units meet specified compressive strength criteria (average and individual unit minimums).
- Establishes maximum allowable linear drying shrinkage.
Finish and Appearance:
- Exposed faces must be free from significant defects when viewed under standard conditions.
- Appearance factors, including texture and color, should be confirmed by approved samples.
Compliance and Testing:
- Details procedures for sampling, inspection, and acceptance or rejection of batches.
- Requires testing of compressive strength, absorption, density, and shrinkage according to referenced ASTM test methods.
Applications
ASTM C129-23 provides essential guidance for a range of construction uses where nonloadbearing masonry elements are required, including:
- Interior Nonloadbearing Partitions: Commonly used in offices, schools, commercial, and residential buildings for partition walls that do not support loads from above.
- Exterior Nonloadbearing Walls (Above Grade): Suitable for external use when effectively protected from moisture and weather, such as in covered walkways or facades.
- Architectural Features: Used in enclosures, decorative screening elements, and infill panels where structural loading is not a concern.
These concrete masonry units offer benefits in terms of fire resistance, sound attenuation, and ease of installation, making them a preferred choice in nonstructural wall construction and retrofit projects. Specifiers and contractors rely on ASTM C129-23 to ensure products conform to safety and performance standards and support consistent, high-quality results on site.
Related Standards
Several other ASTM standards referenced within ASTM C129-23 are essential for full compliance and ensure compatibility with other materials and processes:
- ASTM C33 / C33M: Specification for Concrete Aggregates
- ASTM C90: Specification for Loadbearing Concrete Masonry Units
- ASTM C140 / C140M: Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units
- ASTM C150 / C150M: Specification for Portland Cement
- ASTM C331 / C331M: Specification for Lightweight Aggregates for Concrete Masonry Units
- ASTM C595 / C595M: Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
- ASTM C426: Test Method for Linear Drying Shrinkage of Concrete Masonry Units
- ASTM C979 / C979M: Specification for Pigments for Integrally Colored Concrete
- ASTM C989 / C989M: Specification for Slag Cement for Use in Concrete and Mortars
- ASTM C1240: Specification for Silica Fume Used in Cementitious Mixtures
Compliance with ASTM C129-23 and related standards ensures the safety, durability, and performance of nonloadbearing concrete masonry units across a broad range of construction scenarios.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM C129-23 is a technical specification published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Specification for Nonloadbearing Concrete Masonry Units". This standard covers: ABSTRACT This specification covers hollow and solid nonloadbearing concrete masonry units made from Portland cement, water, and mineral aggregates with or without the inclusion of other materials. These units are intended for use in nonloadbearing partitions, but under certain conditions they may be suitable for use in nonloadbearing exterior walls above grade where effectively protected from the weather. Concrete masonry units manufactured under this specification shall conform to the specified density classifications and compressive strength requirements. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers hollow and solid nonloadbearing concrete masonry units made from portland cement, water, and mineral aggregates with or without the inclusion of other materials. These units are intended for use in nonloadbearing partitions, but under certain conditions they may be suitable for use in nonloadbearing exterior walls above grade where effectively protected from the weather. 1.2 The text of this standard references 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. Note 1: Concrete masonry units covered by this specification are made from lightweight or normal weight aggregates, or both. Note 2: When particular features are desired, such as density classification, surface texture for appearance or bond, finish, color, fire resistance, insulation, acoustical properties, or other special features, such properties should be specified separately by the purchaser. However, suppliers should be consulted as to the availability of units having the desired features. 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 hollow and solid nonloadbearing concrete masonry units made from Portland cement, water, and mineral aggregates with or without the inclusion of other materials. These units are intended for use in nonloadbearing partitions, but under certain conditions they may be suitable for use in nonloadbearing exterior walls above grade where effectively protected from the weather. Concrete masonry units manufactured under this specification shall conform to the specified density classifications and compressive strength requirements. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers hollow and solid nonloadbearing concrete masonry units made from portland cement, water, and mineral aggregates with or without the inclusion of other materials. These units are intended for use in nonloadbearing partitions, but under certain conditions they may be suitable for use in nonloadbearing exterior walls above grade where effectively protected from the weather. 1.2 The text of this standard references 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. Note 1: Concrete masonry units covered by this specification are made from lightweight or normal weight aggregates, or both. Note 2: When particular features are desired, such as density classification, surface texture for appearance or bond, finish, color, fire resistance, insulation, acoustical properties, or other special features, such properties should be specified separately by the purchaser. However, suppliers should be consulted as to the availability of units having the desired features. 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 C129-23 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 C129-23 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM C129-22, ASTM C989/C989M-24, ASTM C1232-23, ASTM C90-23, ASTM C140/C140M-23, ASTM C989/C989M-22, ASTM C90-22, ASTM C1232-21a, ASTM C1283-15(2021), ASTM C140/C140M-23a, ASTM C744-21, ASTM C946-23. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM C129-23 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: C129 − 23
Standard Specification for
Nonloadbearing Concrete Masonry Units
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C129; 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* C90 Specification for Loadbearing Concrete Masonry Units
C140/C140M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Con-
1.1 This specification covers hollow and solid nonloadbear-
crete Masonry Units and Related Units
ing concrete masonry units made from portland cement, water,
C150/C150M Specification for Portland Cement
and mineral aggregates with or without the inclusion of other
C331/C331M Specification for Lightweight Aggregates for
materials. These units are intended for use in nonloadbearing
Concrete Masonry Units
partitions, but under certain conditions they may be suitable for
C426 Test Method for Linear Drying Shrinkage of Concrete
use in nonloadbearing exterior walls above grade where
Masonry Units
effectively protected from the weather.
C595/C595M Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
1.2 The text of this standard references notes and footnotes
C618 Specification for Coal Ash and Raw or Calcined
that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes
Natural Pozzolan for Use in Concrete
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered
C979/C979M Specification for Pigments for Integrally Col-
as requirements of the standard.
ored Concrete
C989/C989M Specification for Slag Cement for Use in
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical Concrete and Mortars
C1240 Specification for Silica Fume Used in Cementitious
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
and are not considered standard. Mixtures
NOTE 1—Concrete masonry units covered by this specification are C1157/C1157M Performance Specification for Hydraulic
made from lightweight or normal weight aggregates, or both.
Cement
NOTE 2—When particular features are desired, such as density
C1232 Terminology for Masonry
classification, surface texture for appearance or bond, finish, color, fire
resistance, insulation, acoustical properties, or other special features, such
3. Terminology
properties should be specified separately by the purchaser. However,
suppliers should be consulted as to the availability of units having the
3.1 Terminology defined in Terminology C1232 shall apply
desired features.
for this specification.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
4. Classification
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
4.1 Nonloadbearing concrete masonry units manufactured
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
in accordance with this specification shall conform to one of
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
three density classifications prescribed in Table 1.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
5. Materials and Manufacture
2.1 ASTM Standards:
5.1 Cementitious Materials—Cementitious materials shall
C33/C33M Specification for Concrete Aggregates
conform to the following applicable specifications:
5.1.1 Portland Cement—Specification C150/C150M.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C15 on
5.1.2 Modified Portland Cement—Portland cement con-
Manufactured Masonry Units and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee
forming to Specification C150/C150M, modified as follows:
C15.03 on Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units.
(1) Limestone—If calcium carbonate is added to the
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2023. Published December 2023. Originally
cement, the CaCO content shall not be less than 85 %.
approved in 1937. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as C129 – 22. DOI:
10.1520/C0129-23.
(2) Limitation on Insoluble Residue—1.5 %.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
(3) Limitation on Air Content of Mortar—Volume percent,
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
22 % max.
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. (4) Limitation on Loss on Ignition—7 %.
*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
C129 − 23
A
TABLE 1 Density Classification Requirements
7. Dimensions and Permissible Variations
Density Oven-Dry Density of Concrete,
3 3 7.1 Minimum face shell thickness shall be not less than ⁄2
Classification lb/ft (kg/m ) Average of 3 Units
in. (13 mm).
Lightweight Less than 105 (1680)
Medium Weight 105 to less than 125 (1680 to 2000)
7.2 No overall dimension (width, height, and length) shall
Normal Weight 125 (2000) or more
differ by more than 6 ⁄8 in. (3.2 mm) from the specified
A
Consult manufacturers for available densities
standard dimensions.
NOTE 5—Standard dimensions of units are the manufacturer’s desig-
nated dimensions. Nominal dimensions of modular size units are equal to
5.1.3 Blended Hydraulic Cements—Specification C595/
the standard dimensions plus the thickness of one mortar joint. Nominal
C595M.
dimensions of nonmodular size units usually exceed the standard dimen-
5.1.4 Hydraulic Cement—Specification C1157/C1157M. 1 1
sions by ⁄8 to ⁄4 in. (3.2 to 6.4 mm).
5.1.5 Pozzolans—Specification C618.
5.1.6 Slag Cement—Specification C989/C989M.
8. Finish and Appearance
5.1.7 Silica Fume—Specification C1240.
8.1 Where units are to be used in exposed wall construction,
5.2 Aggregates—Aggregates shall conform to the following
the face or faces that are to be exposed shall not show chips or
specifications, except for grading requirements:
cracks, except as permitted in 10.2.2 and 10.2.3, or other
5.2.1 Normal Weight Aggregates—Specification C33/
imperfections when viewed from a distance of not less than 20
C33M.
ft (6.1 m) under diffused lighting.
5.2.2 Lightweight Aggregates—Specification C331/C331M.
8.2 The color and texture of the units shall be specified by
NOTE 3—The grading requirements of Specifications C33/C33M and
the purchaser. The finished surfaces that will be exposed in
C331/C331M may not be suitable for concrete masonry production.
place shall conform to an approved sample consisting of not
Because of this, producers are allowed to modify grading to meet their
less than four units, representing the range of texture and color
needs and the requirements of this specification.
permitted.
5.3 Pigments for Integrally Colored Concrete—
NOTE 6—Concrete masonry units are produced using a wide variety of
Specification C979/C979M.
natural aggregates and other materials. As such, slight variations inherent
5.4 Other Constit
...
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: C129 − 22 C129 − 23
Standard Specification for
Nonloadbearing Concrete Masonry Units
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C129; 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 hollow and solid nonloadbearing concrete masonry units made from portland cement, water, and
mineral aggregates with or without the inclusion of other materials. These units are intended for use in nonloadbearing partitions,
but under certain conditions they may be suitable for use in nonloadbearing exterior walls above grade where effectively protected
from the weather.
1.2 The text of this standard references 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.
NOTE 1—Concrete masonry units covered by this specification are made from lightweight or normal weight aggregates, or both.
NOTE 2—When particular features are desired, such as density classification, surface texture for appearance or bond, finish, color, fire resistance,
insulation, acoustical properties, or other special features, such properties should be specified separately by the purchaser. However, suppliers should be
consulted as to the availability of units having the desired features.
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
C90 Specification for Loadbearing Concrete Masonry Units
C140/C140M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units
C150/C150M Specification for Portland Cement
C331/C331M Specification for Lightweight Aggregates for Concrete Masonry Units
C426 Test Method for Linear Drying Shrinkage of Concrete Masonry Units
C595/C595M Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements
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 1937. Last previous edition approved in 20172022
as C129 – 17. DOI: 10.1520/C0129-22.22. DOI: 10.1520/C0129-23.
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
C129 − 23
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
C1240 Specification for Silica Fume Used in Cementitious Mixtures
C1157/C1157M Performance Specification for Hydraulic Cement
C1232 Terminology for Masonry
3. Terminology
3.1 Terminology defined in Terminology C1232 shall apply for this specification.
4. Classification
4.1 Nonloadbearing concrete masonry units manufactured in accordance with this specification shall conform to one of three
density classifications prescribed in Table 1.
5. Materials and Manufacture
5.1 Cementitious Materials—Materials Cementitious materials shall conform to the following applicable specifications:
5.1.1 Portland Cement—Specification C150/C150M.
5.1.2 Modified Portland Cement—Portland cement conforming to Specification C150/C150M, 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 %.
5.1.3 Blended Hydraulic Cements—Specification C595/C595M.
5.1.4 Hydraulic Cement—Specification C1157/C1157M.
5.1.5 Pozzolans—Specification C618.
5.1.6 Blast Furnace Slag Cement—Specification C989/C989M.
5.1.7 Silica Fume—Specification C1240.
5.2 Aggregates—Aggregates shall conform to the following specifications, except for grading requirements:
5.2.1 Normal Weight Aggregates—Specification C33/C33M.
5.2.2 Lightweight Aggregates—Specification C331/C331M.
NOTE 3—The grading requirements of Specifications C33/C33M and C331/C331M 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.
5.3 Pigments for Integrally Colored Concrete—Specification C979/C979M.
A
TABLE 1 Density Classification Requirements
Density Oven-Dry Density of Concrete,
3 3
Classification lb/ft (kg/m ) Average of 3 Units
Lightweight Less than 105 (1680)
Medium Weight 105 to less than 125 (1680 to 2000)
Normal Weight 125 (2000) or more
A
Consult manufacturers for available densities
C129 − 23
5.4 Other Constituents—Air-entraining agents, integral water repellents, and other constituents shall be previously established as
suitable for use in concrete masonry 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.
6. Physical Requirements
6.1 At the time of delivery to the purchaser, units shall conform to the strength requirements prescribed in Table 2. Units shall
be free of defects that significantly impair the strength or permanence of the construction.
NOTE 4—The purchaser is the public body or authority, association, corporation, partnership, or individual entering into a contract or agreement to
purchase or install, or both, concrete masonry units. The time of delivery to the purchaser is FOB plant when the purchaser or purchaser’s agent transports
the concrete masonry units, or at the time unloaded at the worksite if the manufacturer or manufacturer’s agent transports the concrete masonry units.
6.2 At the time of delivery to the purchaser, the total linear drying shrinkage of units shall not exceed 0.065%.
6.
...
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