Marble Dimension Stone

C 503 - 08: Standard Specification for Marble Dimension Stone

When specifying natural stone for architectural and structural applications, ensuring material integrity and performance is paramount. ASTM C 503 - 08, the Standard Specification for Marble Dimension Stone, provides an essential framework for selecting and utilizing this versatile material, offering engineers and designers the critical data needed for successful project outcomes. This industry-leading standard is a cornerstone for any professional working with marble.

What is C 503 - 08?

ASTM C 503 - 08 is an authoritative standard that defines the material characteristics, physical requirements, and sampling procedures for marble intended for general building and structural purposes. Originating from ASTM International, this specification ensures that marble dimension stone meets established benchmarks for quality and performance, thereby facilitating its reliable application in construction and design.

Scope & Purpose

This standard governs the selection and use of dimension marble, which includes stone that has been shaped into blocks, slabs, or tiles through sawing, cutting, or other finishing processes. Importantly, it explicitly excludes molded, cast, or artificially aggregated units, as well as crushed and broken stone. The primary purpose is to provide a clear basis for specifying marble that is suitable for various architectural and structural applications, ensuring appropriate material performance and longevity.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Architects, Structural Engineers, Materials Engineers, Stone Masons, Contractors, and Quality Control Inspectors.
• • Industries affected: Construction, Architecture, Natural Stone Supply, and Interior Design.
• • Compliance nature: Voluntary, but highly recommended and often contractually mandated by specifying bodies.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is typically verified through material submittals, laboratory testing of samples, and site inspections by project engineers, architects, or third-party quality assurance personnel.

Key Requirements Overview

The standard requires a clear classification of marble based on its mineral composition, primarily calcite or dolomite. Professionals must ensure marble is categorized into one of four "Soundness" groups (A, B, C, or D), which indicate its suitability for different applications and potential need for repair or reinforcement during fabrication. Key provisions include adherence to specific physical property requirements, such as minimum compressive strength, flexural strength, modulus of rupture, and absorption limits, as detailed in the standard's tables. Furthermore, the specification mandates that exterior installations exclusively use Soundness Group A marble, free from defects that could compromise structural integrity.

Related Standards & References

ASTM C 503 - 08 works in conjunction with other ASTM standards for a comprehensive approach to dimension stone. For instance, ASTM C 119 provides essential terminology for dimension stone, ensuring consistent understanding of terms like "marble." ASTM C 97 and ASTM C 170 are frequently referenced for testing absorption, bulk specific gravity, and compressive strength, respectively, allowing for verification of the physical properties outlined in C 503. Guides such as ASTM C 1528 offer further direction on selecting marble for exterior use, complementing the specific requirements of C 503 - 08.