British Standard

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 BRITISH STANDARD BS 1191-1:
1973

Specification for

Gypsum building
plasters —
Part 1: Excluding premixed lightweight
plasters
Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

UDC 691.55:666.91
 BS 1191-1:1973

Co-operating organizations

The Cement, Lime and Gypsum Industry Standards Committee, under whose
supervision this British Standard was prepared, consists of representatives
from the following Government departments and scientific and industrial
organizations:

Association of Consulting Engineers

British Steel Industry
British Precast Concrete Federation
British Railways Board
British Ready Mixed Concrete Association
British Quarrying and Slag Federation
Cement and Concrete Association
Cement Makers’ Federation*
Chemical Industries Association*
Concrete Society
Department of the Environment*
Department of the Environment — Building Research Establishment*
Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors
Greater London Council
Gypsum Products Development Association*
Imperial Chemical Industries Limited
Institution of Civil Engineers
Institution of Municipal Engineers*
Institution of Structural Engineers
Institution of Water Engineers
Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

National Federation of Building Trades Employers*

Sand and Gravel Association Limited
Society of Chemical Industry*
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors*
Welwyn Hall Research Association

The Government departments and scientific and industrial organizations

marked with an asterisk in the above list, together with the following, were
directly represented on the committee entrusted with the preparation of this
British Standard:
This British Standard, having
been approved by the Cement,
Lime and Gypsum Industry
British Gypsum Limited
Standards Committee, was Modular Society
published under the authority
of the Executive Board on
National Federation of Plastering Contractors
5 October 1973 Royal Institute of British Architects
Individual manufacturers
© BSI 03-1999

First published as BS 1191,

December 1944 Amendments issued since publication
First revision November 1955
Second revision as BS 1191-1,
August 1967
Amd. No. Date of issue Comments
Third revision October 1973

The following BSI references

relate to the work on this
standard:
Committee reference CEB/15

ISBN 0 580 07690 3

 BS 1191-1:1973

Contents

Page
Co-operating organizations Inside front cover
Foreword ii
1 General 1
1.1 Scope 1
1.2 Definitions 1
1.3 Classification 1
1.4 Purity 1
1.5 Composition 1
1.6 Marking 1
1.7 Samples for testing and sampling 1
1.8 Manufacturer’s certificate 2
2 Quality of the different classes
2.1 Class A. Plaster of paris 2
2.2 Class B. Retarded hemihydrate gypsum plaster 2
2.3 Class C. Anhydrous gypsum plaster 3
2.4 Class D. Keene’s plaster 3
Appendix A Determination of chemical composition and loss on ignition 4
Appendix B Examination for soundness 4
Appendix C Method of determining transverse strength 4
Appendix D Determination of mechanical resistance by the dropping
ball test 6
Appendix E Determination of expansion 7
Appendix F Method of stabilizing classes A and B plasters 8
Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

Appendix G Determination of freedom from coarse particles 8

Appendix H Examples of typical classification markings required by 1.6 8
Figure 1 — Gang mould 9
Figure 2 — Extensometer 11
Publication referred to Inside back cover

© BSI 03-1999 i
 BS 1191-1:1973

Foreword

This British Standard has been revised under the authority of the Cement, Lime
and Gypsum Industry Standards Committee to bring it into line with current
practice. The terms used to describe the function and types of plaster accord with
those given in BS 4049, “Glossary of terms applicable to internal plastering,
external rendering and floor screeding”.
The alphabetical classification of the plasters remains unchanged but the Class B
category in this edition is restricted to undercoat and final coat plasters and their
sub-divisions, while plasters in Classes C and D are for finishing purposes only.
Improvements have been made to a number of test procedures and additional test
methods have been introduced. This has led to the modification of certain
performance requirements.
In accordance with the change to the metric system this standard has now been
metricated giving values in terms of SI units. For further information on SI units
reference should be made to BS 3763, “The International System of units (SI)”.
Figure 1 and 1.8 have been amended and Figure 2 deleted, but otherwise the
contents are the same as the previous edition which it is proposed to withdraw
when this standard is published.
NOTE 1 N/mm2 = 1 MN/m2 = 1 MPa.
A British Standard does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users of British Standards are responsible for their correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.
Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii,
pages 1 to 12, an inside back cover and a back cover.
This standard has been updated (see copyright date) and may have had
amendments incorporated. This will be indicated in the amendment table on
the inside front cover.

ii © BSI 03-1999

1 General
1.1 Scope
This British Standard specifies requirements for
those plasters which have a definite set due to the
hydration of calcium sulphate to form gypsum and
which are intended for general building operations
and for the manufacture of preformed building
products. Premixed lightweight building plasters
are not included in this Part of the standard
(see Foreword).
NOTE The British Standards referred to in this standard are
listed on the inside back cover.
1.2 Definitions
For the purposes of this British Standard, the
following definitions apply:
gypsum
the dihydrate of calcium sulphate, CaSO4.2H2O, is
the raw material from which the gypsum plasters
are commonly manufactured; it is also the final
stage in the setting of gypsum plasters
hemihydrate
an intermediate phase in the dehydration of gypsum
by heat wherein the amount of combined water
corresponds approximately to the
Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI
formula 2CaSO4.H2O, calcium sulphate
hemihydrate. The formula is often
written CaSO4.½H2O, hence the designation
hemihydrate
plaster of paris
a form of hemihydrate without any added retarder
of set. It is manufactured in several grades for
various industrial uses
retarded hemihydrate
a form of hemihydrate which contains an addition of
a retarder of set
anhydrous gypsum plaster
a material consisting essentially of anhydrous
calcium sulphate (CaSO4), produced by the
dehydration of gypsum, the set of which has been
suitably accelerated
keene’s plaster
a gypsum plaster of the anhydrous class which is
characterized by being more easily brought to a
smooth and true finish in continuous plastered
surface, this property being associated as well with
a gradual set
© BSI 03-1999
BS 1191-1:1973
1.3 Classification
Gypsum plaster shall be of one of the following
classes:
Class A. Plaster of Paris
Class B. Retarded hemihydrate gypsum plaster
Class C. Anhydrous gypsum plaster
Class D. Keene’s plaster
1.4 Purity
No materials shall be added to gypsum plasters
except such as are necessary to control the setting
and working characteristics or to impart
anti-corrosion or fungicidal properties.
1.5 Composition
Gypsum plaster shall comply with the relevant
clause on chemical composition in Section 2.
Materials present arising from impurities in the
original gypsum used in manufacture, or from
permissible additions under 1.4 shall not be of a
type having deleterious effects on the set plaster.
1.6 Marking
The vendor shall show clearly on each package of
plaster the number of this British Standard,
i.e. BS 1191-1, the class and type to which the
plaster belongs (see Appendix H for examples) and
the date of manufacture. In addition, it shall be
clearly indicated whether the plaster is to be used as
an undercoat or final coat.
NOTE Attention is drawn to certification facilities offered by
BSI: see the inside back cover of this standard.
1.7 Samples for testing and sampling
Each sample shall be not less than 5 kg in weight,
and shall be enclosed immediately in a clean, dry,
airtight container. The process of sampling shall be
carried out in as short a time as possible.
Sufficient material shall be taken in approximately
equal portions selected from at least twelve
different positions when the plaster is loose, from
not less than twelve different packages when the
plaster is not loose, or, where there are fewer than
twelve different packages, from each package. The
portions shall be thoroughly mixed and shall be
quartered down to give a sample of the weight
required for testing. Every care shall be taken in the
selection so that a fair, average sample is obtained.
The vendor shall afford every facility for the
efficient sampling of the bulk and for subsequently
identifying the plaster sampled.
1
 BS 1191-1:1973
1.8 Manufacturer’s certificate
At the purchaser’s request the supplier shall
provide statistical quality control certificates, or a
certificate stating that the product complies with
the requirements of this British Standard.
2 Quality of the different classes
2.1 Class A. Plaster of paris
2.1.1 Compliance with tests. Plaster of Paris
shall comply with the requirements of 2.1.2 to 2.1.5
when tested by the methods described in the
relevant Appendix A to Appendix G.
2.1.2 Chemical composition. The chemical
compositions shall be as follows when determined as
described in Appendix A:
1) The sulphur trioxide content, expressed as a
percentage by weight of the plaster as received,
shall be not less than 35 %.
2) The calcium oxide content shall be not less
than two-thirds of the sulphur trioxide content,
by weight.
3) The sum of the soluble sodium salt and
magnesium salt contents, expressed as
percentages of sodium oxide (Na2O), and
magnesium oxide (MgO), by weight of the plaster
Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI
as received, shall be not greater than 0.2 %.
4) The loss on ignition shall be not greater
than 9 % and not less than 4 % by weight of the
plaster as received.
2.1.3 Freedom from coarse particles. The
residue on a 1.18 mm sieve complying with the
requirements of BS 410 shall be not greater
than 5 % by weight when determined by the method
described in Appendix G.
2.1.4 Soundness. The set plaster pats shall show
no signs of disintegration, popping or pitting when
examined by the method described in Appendix B.
2.1.5 Transverse strength. The transverse
strength (modulus of rupture) of set plaster shall be
not less than 2.5 N/mm2 when determined in
accordance with the method described in
Appendix C.
2.2 Class B. Retarded hemihydrate
gypsum plaster
2.2.1 Type. Retarded hemihydrate gypsum plasters
shall be of one of the following types:
Type a: Undercoat plaster (plaster for use with
sand)
1. Browning plaster
2. Metal lathing plaster
2 © BSI 03-1999
Type b: Final coat plaster
1. Finish plaster
2. Board finish plaster
2.2.2 Compliance with tests. When tested by the
methods described in Appendix A to Appendix G,
retarded hemihydrate plasters shall comply with
the requirements of 2.2.3 and 2.2.5.
In addition, the following plasters shall comply with
the subclauses indicated:
1) Browning plaster
Type a. 1: 2.2.6
2) Metal lathing plaster,
Type a. 2: 2.2.3 5) and 2.2.6
3) Finish plaster,
Type b. 1: 2.2.4 and 2.2.7
4) Board finish plaster,
Type b. 2: 2.2.4, 2.2.7 and 2.2.8
2.2.3 Chemical composition. The chemical
composition shall be as follows when determined as
described in Appendix A:
1) The sulphur trioxide content, expressed as a
percentage by weight of the plaster as received,
shall be not less than 35 %.
2) The calcium oxide content shall be not less
than two-thirds of the content of sulphur trioxide
by weight.
3) The sum of the soluble salt and magnesium
salt contents, expressed as percentages of sodium
oxide (Na2O), and magnesium oxide (MgO), by
weight of the plaster as received, shall be not
greater than 0.2 %.
4) The loss on ignition shall be not greater
than 9 % and not less than 4 % by weight of the
plaster as received.
5) For metal lathing plaster, the free lime shall be
not less than 3 % by weight at the time of
despatch.
2.2.4 Freedom from coarse particles. The
residue on a 1.18 mm sieve complying with the
requirements of BS 410 shall be not greater
than 1 % by weight when determined by the method
described in Appendix G.
2.2.5 Soundness. The set plaster pats shall show
no signs of disintegration, popping or pitting when
examined by the method described in Appendix B.
2.2.6 Transverse strength. The transverse
strength (modulus of rupture) of the set sanded
plaster shall be not less than 1.2 N/mm2 when
tested in accordance with the method described
in Appendix C.

2.2.7 Mechanical resistance. The mechanical
resistance of the set neat plaster shall be such that
the impact of the dropping ball produces an
indentation having a diameter not greater
than 5 mm when determined as described
in Appendix D.
2.2.8 Expansion on setting. The linear expansion
on setting at the time of despatch shall not
exceed 0.2 % in one day when tested in accordance
with the method described in Appendix E.
2.3 Class C. Anhydrous gypsum plaster
2.3.1 Type. Anhydrous gypsum plasters are for
finishing only.
2.3.2 Compliance with tests. Anhydrous gypsum
plasters shall comply with the requirements of 2.3.3
to 2.3.6.
2.3.3 Chemical composition. The chemical
composition shall be as follows when determined as
described in Appendix A:
1) The sulphur trioxide content, expressed as a
percentage by weight of the plaster as received,
shall be not less than 40 %.
2) The calcium oxide content shall be not less
than two-thirds of the sulphur trioxide content by
weight.
Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI
3) The sum of the soluble sodium salt and
magnesium salt contents, expressed as
percentages of sodium oxide (Na2O), and
magnesium oxide (MgO), by weight of the plaster
as received, shall be not greater than 0.2 %.
4) The loss on ignition shall be not greater
than 3 % by weight of the plaster as received.
2.3.4 Freedom from coarse particles. The
residue on a 1.18 mm sieve complying with the
requirements of BS 410 shall be not greater
than 1 % by weight when determined as described
in Appendix G.
2.3.5 Soundness. The set plaster pats shall show
no signs of disintegration, popping or pitting when
examined by the method described in Appendix B.
2.3.6 Mechanical resistance. The mechanical
resistance of the set neat plaster shall be such that
the impact of the dropping ball produces an
indentation having a diameter not greater
than 4.5 mm when determined as described
in Appendix D.
2.4 Class D. Keene’s plaster
2.4.1 Type. Keene’s plaster is for finishing only.
© BSI 03-1999
BS 1191-1:1973
NOTE Keene’s plaster is of the anhydrous type. It is
characterized by being more easily brought to a smooth and clean
finish associated with gradual set. In this British Standard,
Keene’s plaster is differentiated from a Class C gypsum plaster
by a higher standard of purity and hardness. The special
qualities traditionally associated with this type of plaster cannot
be dealt with at present by any convenient direct test.
2.4.2 Compliance with tests. The plaster shall
comply with the requirements of 2.4.3 to 2.4.6.
2.4.3 Chemical composition. The chemical
composition shall be as follows, when determined as
described in Appendix A:
1) The sulphur trioxide content, expressed as a
percentage by weight of the plaster as received,
shall be not less than 47 %.
2) The calcium oxide content shall be not less
than two-thirds of the sulphur trioxide content by
weight.
3) The sum of the soluble sodium salt and
magnesium salt contents expressed as
percentages of sodium oxide (Na2O), and
magnesium oxide (MgO), by weight of the plaster
as received, shall be not greater than 0.2 %.
4) The loss on ignition shall be not greater
than 2 % by weight of the plaster as received.
2.4.4 Freedom from coarse particles. The
residue on a 1.18 mm sieve complying with the
requirements of BS 410 shall be not greater
than 1 % by weight when determined as described
in Appendix G.
2.4.5 Soundness. The set plaster shall show no
signs of disintegration, popping or pitting when
examined by the method described in Appendix B.
2.4.6 Mechanical resistance. The mechanical
resistance of the set neat plaster shall be such that
the impact of the dropping ball produces an
indentation having a diameter not greater
than 4 mm when determined as described
in Appendix D.
2.4.7 Testing conditions
2.4.7.1 Temperature. Unless otherwise specified,
the temperature of the materials, including water,
and that of the test room at the time when the tests
are being performed shall be 20 ± 5 °C.
Plaster intended for use in hot climates may be
tested at any higher temperature up to 35 °C when
agreed upon between the purchaser and the vendor,
and shall then comply with the requirements of this
British Standard.
2.4.7.2 Reagents. All reagents shall be of analytical
reagent quality. The water to be used in all testing
operations shall be distilled or deionized, and unless
otherwise stated, between the limits of temperature
indicated in 2.4.7.1.
3
 BS 1191-1:1973

Appendix A Determination of chemical composition and loss on ignition

A.1 Determination of sulphur trioxide and calcium oxide. Mix 1 g of the plaster, ground to pass
a 212 4m sieve complying with the requirements of BS 410, with 100 ml of water in a beaker; add 5 g of
powdered ammonium carbonate, heat the whole to boiling and simmer gently for 30 minutes. Boil the
liquid until the greater part of the excess of ammonium carbonate is removed. Neutralize the soluble
with 2N hydrochloric acid (methyl red indicator), add an excess of 20 ml of the acid and continue boiling for
a further 10 minutes.
Filter off the insoluble matter, thoroughly wash the residue with hot water and dilute the combined filtrate
and washings to 250 ml.
Determine the sulphur trioxide and calcium oxide contents in this filtrate.
A.2 Determination of soluble sodium and magnesium salts. Weigh 1 g of the plaster, ground to pass
a 212 4m sieve complying with the requirements of BS 410 into a polythene bottle, add 100 ml of water at
room temperature and 1 g of salt-free gypsum. Shake the bottle occasionally during the next hour to
prevent caking and then allow it to stand until a clear supernatant liquid is obtained.
Determine the contents of soluble sodium salts and magnesium salts in portions of the clear supernatant
liquid. Express the results as Na2O and MgO.
A.3 Determination of loss on ignition. Weigh 2 g of the plaster into a squat weighing bottle, previously
weighed complete with cover. Distribute the plaster evenly over the bottle to constant weight at a
temperature between 280 °C and 300 °C. Cover the weighing bottle and re-weigh immediately it is cool.
A.4 Determination of free lime. Suspend 5 g of the sample in approximately 100 ml of water. Add
several drops of phenolphthalein indicator solution (0.5 % in 50 % aqueous ethanol) and titrate with 0.5N
hydrochloric acid until the pink colour of the indicator just disappears. Continue the titration until the pink
colour does not return after standing for 2-3 minutes.
With 5 g sample, 1 ml 0.5N acid ≡ 0.37 % Ca(OH)2.

Appendix B Examination for soundness

Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

Examine soundness by steaming six pats of neat plaster prepared as follows in ring moulds. The moulds
should be about 100 mm in diameter and 6 mm deep, well-greased before use and resting on well-greased
non-porous base-plates.
Gauge the Class A plaster with the appropriate amount of water to produce a smooth cream, and Classes B
to D with the appropriate amount of water to produce a stiff plastic paste convenient for filling the moulds.
Form the flat pats by pouring or pressing the material into the moulds in such a manner as to avoid
air-bubbles, and smooth off level with the top edge of the ring with a broad flexible palette-knife or the like.
Allow six pats to set undisturbed in air of at least 80 % relatively humidity for between 16 hours
and 24 hours in the case of Classes A and B, and for three days in the case of Classes C and D, then subject
them to the action of saturated steam at atmospheric pressure for a period of 3 hours, without removing
from the moulds, with the apparatus arranged so that condensed water cannot drip back on to the face of
the pats. Visually examine the pats in a good light for signs of disintegration, popping or pitting.

Appendix C Method of determining transverse strength

C.1 Apparatus. The following apparatus is required.
1) Moulds. A six-compartmented metal mould for making specimens 100 mm × 25 mm × 25 mm
(see Figure 1). The 25 mm dimensions of the mould shall be accurate within ± 0.05 mm when new and
maintained within ± 0.1 mm. The internal faces of the mould sides shall be maintained plane
to 0.01 mm over any 25 mm length and 0.04 mm overall. The mould shall be provided with a rectangular
metal or glass plate 230 mm × 150 mm × 6 mm thick, and sufficiently plane to make, when greased, a
watertight joint with the sides of the mould, to act as a base.
2) Damp closet. The atmosphere of the damp closet for the storage of specimens shall be maintained at
a relative humidity of at least 90 % at a temperature of 20 ± 5 °C.
3) Testing machine. An ordinary tensile strength cement-testing machine can readily be adapted for this
transverse test by fitting appropriate clamps and adjusting the rate of loading.

4 © BSI 03-1999
 BS 1191-1:1973

C.2 Standard sand. The standard sand shall be obtained from Leighton Buzzard, shall be of the white
variety and shall be thoroughly washed and dried. Its loss of weight on extraction with hot hydrochloric
acid shall be not more than 0.25 % when tested as follows:
Dry the sand at 100 °C for one hour, weigh 2 g into a porcelain dish, add 20 ml of hydrochloric acid of
relative density 1.16 and 20 ml of distilled water. Heat on a water bath for one hour, wash well with hot
water, dry, and ignite in a covered crucible.
The sand shall all pass through an 850 4m sieve and not more than 10 % by weight shall pass a 600 4m
sieve. Both sieves shall comply with the requirements of BS 410.
C.3 Preparation of test specimens
C.3.1 Class A plaster. Stabilize the plaster in accordance with the method given in Appendix F. Prepare
the six specimens as follows using a mix of neat plaster at a standard pourable consistence determined in
advance as described below:
Sprinkle the plaster (a convenient quantity is 450 g) over the surface of the required amount of water
over a period of 30 seconds. Allow to stand for 30 seconds and then stir for 60 seconds, after which time
the mix shall be of uniform consistence throughout.
Immediately pour the mix into the moulds and vibrate the moulds by hand to remove air bubbles.
Remove excess material, leaving slightly more than needed to fill the mould. The whole operation should
be completed as soon as possible after the mixing.
Allow the specimens to remain undisturbed in the moulds for 24 hours, under a damp cloth or in a
damp closet. Scrape the top surface of the prisms smooth and level with the top of the mould. Remove
the prisms from the mould, dry to constant weight in a well-ventilated oven maintained at a
temperature between 35 °C and 40 °C and test dry.
C.3.1.1 Standard pourable consistence. The apparatus consists of a hollow corrosion-resistant metal
cylinder of internal diameter 30 mm and height 50 mm with the ends square to the longitudinal axis. It is
centred on a metal baseplate.
Over a period of 30 seconds sprinkle 100 g of the plaster over the surface of a known volume of water in
Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

which 0.1 g of sodium citrate has previously been dissolved. Allow to stand for 30 seconds and then stir
for 60 seconds. Transfer the mixture to the metal cylinder and strike off level with the top. Thirty seconds
after mixing is completed, lift the cylinder vertically1) and allow the mixture to spread over the baseplate.
Measure the maximum and minimum diameters of spread and record the mean.
Repeat the procedure varying the ratio of plaster to water until a mixture of standard pourable consistence
is obtained. Record the plaster-water ratio.
The standard pourable consistence corresponds to a mean diameter of spread of 78–80 mm.
C.3.2 Class B undercoat plaster. Stabilize the plaster in accordance with the method given in Appendix F.
Prepare six specimens with a mix of one part plaster and three parts standard sand by weight gauged with
water to standard undercoat consistence as follows.
A convenient quantity of plaster to use is 200 g. Mix the plaster with three times its weight of standard
sand (see C.2) for two minutes and gauge with water to produce a paste of the standard undercoat
consistence defined below.
Determine the precise amount of water needed by previous trial. (As a guide, first try between 14 %
and 17 % of the total dry weight, i.e. between 112 ml and 136 ml.)
Add the dry sanded mix to the water over a period of 30 seconds and allow to soak for a
further 30 seconds. Mix vigorously for one minute with a stiff-bladed spatula to produce a paste of
uniform consistence.
Test the mix for consistence as described in C.3.2.1. If the consistence is correct, fill the mix
immediately into the appropriate moulds; if it is not correct repeat the whole procedure using a
different proportion of water.
Fill the mould to half height and consolidate the mix by tamping ten times with a 6 mm square brass
rod along the length of the mould. Fill the mould above the top and consolidate the top layer in a
similar manner.

1)
Mechanical devices may be used to control the rate of separation and to ensure that the cylinder is removed vertically.
Alternatively, the cylinder may be clamped and the baseplate lowered.

© BSI 03-1999 5
 BS 1191-1:1973

Allow the specimens to remain undisturbed in the moulds for 24 hours under a damp cloth or in a damp
closet. Scrape the top surface of the plaster prisms smooth and level with the top of the mould. Remove
the prisms from the mould, dry to constant weight in a well-ventilated oven maintained at a
temperature between 35 °C and 40 °C and test dry.
C.3.2.1 Standard consistence. Determine the standard testing consistence by means of a dropping ball
penetrometer test as follows.
Fill a ring mould identical with that specified in BS 4551 with the paste under test. Rest the mould on
a non-porous plate, fill it by using a flexible palette-knife in about ten increments in such a manner as
to eliminate voids or air-bubbles. Smooth off the surface of the paste level with the top of the mould.
Drop a 25 mm diameter methylmethacrylate ball of weight 9.8 ± 0.1 g from rest from a height
of 250 mm measured from the bottom of the ball to the surface of the paste, so that it falls
approximately into the centre of the ring. Record the penetration as the distance from the lowest point
of the ball to the level of the original surface of the material.
Measure the depth of penetration by a suitable method, for example, as given in BS 4551.
The paste is of the correct consistence when the ball penetrates 9-10 mm.
C.4 Transverse strength test. Test each of six specimens 25 mm square in cross section and 100 mm
long.
Place the specimen under test symmetrically on two parallel metal rollers 10 mm in diameter and located
at 75 mm centres. Apply the load by a third parallel roller of the same size at a point midway between the
other two. Do not use any packing between the rollers and the specimen, and place the specimen so that
the faces in contact with the rollers are those which were cast against the sides of the mould.
Apply the load steadily and uniformly from zero, at a rate of not less than 200 N/min and not more
than 800 N/min.
C.5 Calculation of results. Calculate the mean value of the breaking load of the six specimens and
convert it to a modulus of rupture expressed in N/mm2. For the test conditions given, the value of the
modulus is 0.0072 times the value of the mean breaking load in newtons.
Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

Appendix D Determination of mechanical resistance by the dropping ball test

D.1 Apparatus. The following apparatus is required.
1) Moulds. As described in C.1 1).
2) Damp closet. As described in C.1 2).
3) Hard steel ball. 12.7 mm in diameter and weighing 8.33 g (ball bearing).
4) Tube. Straight, smooth, clean and dry, approximately 16 mm in internal diameter and 1.72 m length.
D.2 Preparation of test specimens
D.2.1 Class B final coat plaster. Stabilize the plaster before test in accordance with the method described
in Appendix F. Prepare four test specimens as follows.
A convenient quantity of plaster to use is 400 g. Add this over a period of 30 seconds to the appropriate
amount of water to produce a standard final coat consistence, allow to soak for one minute and then
mix with a stiff-bladed spatula for two minutes, after which time the mix shall be less uniform.
Determine the precise amount of water needed by a previous trial. The determination of the required
standard final coat consistence is described later.
Fill the moulds in two layers, tamping each layer ten times with a 6 mm square brass rod along the
length of the mould. Strike off the surface level with the top of the mould.
Ensure that the specimens remain undisturbed in the moulds for 24 hours under a damp cloth or in a
damp closet and then remove them from the moulds. Finally, dry them to constant weight in a
well-ventilated drying oven maintained at a temperature between 35 °C and 40 °C and test dry.
D.2.2 Class C and D plasters. Prepare four test specimens as follows.
A convenient quantity of plaster to use is 400 g. Add this over a period of 30 seconds to the appropriate
amount of water to produce a standard final coat consistence. Stir the mix with a stiff-bladed spatula
for 30 seconds in the case of Class C plaster and for 60 seconds in the case of Class D plaster.

6 © BSI 03-1999
 BS 1191-1:1973

Fill the moulds in two layers, tamping each layer ten times with a 6 mm square brass rod along the
length of the mould. Strike off the surface level with the top of the mould.
Ensure that the specimens remain undisturbed in the moulds for 24 hours under a damp cloth or in a damp
closet and then remove them from the moulds. Store them in a damp closet for three days. Finally, dry them
to constant weight in a well-ventilated drying oven maintained at a temperature between 35 °C and 40 °C
and test dry.
D.3 Standard consistence. Determine the standard final coat consistence by means of a dropping ball
penetrometer precisely as described in C.3.2, except that the correct consistence in the present test
corresponds to a penetration of 15-16 mm.
When early stiffening occurs, 0.1 g of sodium citrate may be added to the gauging water for the
determination of consistence.
D.4 Mechanical resistance test procedure. Determine the resistance of the plaster to the impact of a
falling ball by measuring the diameter of the impression produced on the smooth surface (which was in
contact with the internal face of the mould when casting) of four neat plaster rods 25 mm square in cross
section and 100 mm long, prepared, stored and dried as described in D.2, when a hard steel ball 12.7 mm
in diameter and weighing 8.33 g (ball bearing) is allowed to fall freely from rest from a height of 1.82 m
onto the horizontal surface of the plaster.
After cleaning and polishing the hard steel ball, release it from rest down a straight, smooth, clean and dry
tube approximately 16 mm in internal diameter and 1.72 m in length, supported firmly in a vertical
position with the top of the specimen 100 mm below the bottom of the tube. Support the specimen under
test firmly on a smooth, substantial and unyielding horizontal surface.
Make eight impressions in all, one on each of the opposite faces of the four rods, avoiding blemishes and
air-bubbles, and not more than 6 mm from the centre line or within 12 mm of the ends of the rod,
measuring two diameters at right angles for each impression. Neglect any impression obviously irregular
in shape and repeat the test on that face. Record the mean of the sixteen measurements.

Appendix E Determination of expansion

Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

E.1 General. Determine the linear expansion on setting in continuous damp air storage by means of a
simple extensometer described in E.2 with the neat plaster gauged to a standard final coat consistence.
Stabilize the plaster before test by the method described in Appendix F.
E.2 Extensometer. The extensometer has an open V-shaped cradle closed at one end by a fixed plate and
at the other by a movable partition carried on the stem of an ordinary watch-pattern dial micrometer gauge
of the Ames type reading to 1/100 mm (see Figure 2). The cradle is of brass or bronze 100 mm long,
about 60 mm wide and 25 mm deep with a rounded bottom. The take-up or returning spring shall be light
and the movement free.
To prevent the plaster sticking to the sides of the cradle, grease before use and line internally with thin
non-absorbent paper having a glazed surface. Renew the paper lining for each test. Fill the gauged plaster
into the cradle while the movable plate is held against the end, and strike off smooth and level with the top
of the cradle.
E.3 Zero adjustment. Move the movable partition very slightly forward clear of the end to eliminate
backlash. Bring the plaster solid against the movable partition. Make any necessary zero adjustment on
the dial.
E.4 Gauging and measurement. A convenient quantity of plaster to use is about 200 g. Gauge this with
water in the manner and to the standard final coat consistence described in D.2.3. Fill the gauged plaster
immediately into the cradle of the extensometer and adjust the zero point as described in E.3. Place the
extensometer in the damp closet and note the zero reading. Leave it undisturbed for 24 hours and then take
the final reading. Calculate the percentage linear expansion.
difference in dial readings in 1/100 mm-
Per cent linear expansion = -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
100

© BSI 03-1999 7
 BS 1191-1:1973

Appendix F Method of stabilizing classes A and B plasters

Stabilize these plasters before use in the tests for transverse strength, mechanical resistance and
expansion on setting.
For this purpose, expose the plaster for 3–4 days in a layer not more than 12 mm in thickness to an
atmosphere of 65 ± 3 % relative humidity at a temperature of 20 ± 5 °C with vigorous air circulation over
the specimen throughout this period.
If a conditioned room is not available, maintain the humidity by means of a saturated solution of
ammonium nitrate contained together with the solid salt in a wide dish, and placed in a tightly-closed
cabinet. Keep the air in the cabinet moving over both solution and plaster.

Appendix G Determination of freedom from coarse particles

Sift 100 g of plaster continuously for 5 minutes on a 1.18 mm sieve complying with the requirements of
BS 410 and weigh the residue on the sieve.
Break down air-set lumps in the sample with the fingers, without rubbing on the sieve.

Appendix H Examples of typical classification markings required by 1.6

Generic description Marking

Retarded hemihydrate gypsum metal BS 1191-1

lathing plaster CLASS B
Type a. 2
Retarded hemihydrate gypsum board BS 1191-1
finish plaster CLASS B
Type b. 2
Anhydrous gypsum finish plaster BS 1191-1
Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

CLASS C
Keene’s gypsum finish plaster BS 1191-1
CLASS D

8 © BSI 03-1999
 BS 1191-1:1973

Figure 1 — Gang mould (a) Plan view of mould (cover plate removed)
Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

© BSI 03-1999 9
 BS 1191-1:1973
Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

Figure 1 — Gang mould (a) Plan view of mould (cover plate removed) (continued)

10 © BSI 03-1999
 BS 1191-1:1973

Figure 2 — Extensometer (see Appendix E)

Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

© BSI 03-1999 11
 Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

12
blank
 BS 1191-1:1973

Publications referred to

This standard makes reference to the following British Standards:

BS 410, Test sieves.
BS 4551, Methods of testing mortar and specification for mortar testing sand.
Licensed Copy: chan chan, July 22, 2001, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

© BSI 03-1999
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