Freezing-test methods for masonry products in Russia, the EU, the USA and Canada

The article analyzes the methods of testing for frost resistance of brick, stone, block in Russia, European countries, as well as in the USA and Canada. It is noted that in Russia and in European countries there is an incorrect assessment of the frost resistance of masonry wall products tested by the method of volumetric freezing and the method of unilateral freezing. The article also states that in the USA and Canada, a different method is used to determine the frost resistance of masonry products. The main purpose of the article is to point out to consumers: designers, builders, individual developers, the need to take into account the methods of determining their frost resistance when using masonry products. It is also necessary to review the frost resistance control of ceramic and silicate masonry products, as well as to amend the joint venture for the design of stone and reinforced stone structures in terms of designating the frost resistance of various types of masonry products. As an example, a table from the joint venture on the design of reinforced concrete structures is given, in which various designations are indicated for different types of concrete, which correspond to different test methods.