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IS 1128:1974 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for limestone (slab and tiles). This code establishes the specifications for limestone slabs and tiles, including popular varieties like Kota stone. Engineers and architects use it to verify the dimensions, tolerances, and physical properties required for flooring, roofing, and facing in building construction.
Consolidated list per BIS. For the text of each amendment, refer to the BIS portal link above.
limestonestone slabstilesKota stoneShahabad stone
International Equivalents
Similar International Standards
ASTM C568 / C568M-22aASTM International, USA
HighCurrent
Standard Specification for Limestone Dimension Stone
Specifies requirements for three density-based classes of limestone for general building use, directly overlapping with IS 1128's scope.
BS EN 12058:2015BSI / CEN, UK / Europe
MediumCurrent
Natural stone products - Slabs for floors and stairs - Requirements
Covers all natural stone slabs for flooring, a primary application for limestone under IS 1128, but is not specific to limestone.
BS EN 1341:2012BSI / CEN, UK / Europe
MediumCurrent
Slabs of natural stone for external paving - Requirements and test methods
Focuses on natural stone slabs for external paving, a key use case for the durable limestones specified in IS 1128.
Key Differences
≠IS 1128 classifies limestone based on geographical origin and color (e.g., 'Kotah Stone', 'Shahabad Stone'), whereas ASTM C568 classifies limestone into three categories based on physical density.
≠IS 1128 specifies a qualitative hardness test on Mohr's scale (min. 3), an outdated method. Modern standards like ASTM C568 and EN 12058 require quantitative abrasion resistance tests (e.g., ASTM C1353, EN 14157).
≠The Indian standard specifies a significantly higher minimum Modulus of Rupture (15 MPa) compared to even the highest ASTM C568 category (6.9 MPa), suggesting it is tailored for specific high-strength Indian limestones.
≠The test method for abrasion resistance in IS 1128 is based on a Dorry-type machine, which is largely obsolete. International standards use modern methods like the Taber Abraser (ASTM) or the Wide Wheel Abrader (EN).
Key Similarities
≈All standards mandate testing for core physical properties, including compressive strength, water absorption, and flexural strength (modulus of rupture), forming the basis for quality assessment.
≈The primary applications covered, such as flooring, paving, and wall lining, are common across IS 1128 and its international counterparts.
≈All standards provide requirements for dimensional accuracy, including tolerances for length, width, and thickness, to ensure proper installation and fit.
≈The concept of specifying various surface finishes (e.g., polished, honed, rough-cut) is a common requirement in IS 1128 and international specifications.
Parameter Comparison
Parameter
IS Value
International
Source
Compressive Strength (Min)
54 MPa (from 550 kgf/cm²)
55 MPa (for Type III High-Density)
ASTM C568
Modulus of Rupture (Min)
15 MPa (from 150 kgf/cm²)
6.9 MPa (for Type III High-Density)
ASTM C568
Water Absorption (Max)
1.0% by weight
3.0% by weight (for Type III High-Density)
ASTM C568
Density (Min)
~2500 kg/m³ (from Specific Gravity of 2.50)
2560 kg/m³ (for Type III High-Density)
ASTM C568
Abrasion Resistance (Flooring)
Max wear of 2.0 mm (via Dorry Test)
Max wear of 20 mm for heavy commercial traffic (via EN 14157 Wide Wheel Test)
EN 12058
Thickness Tolerance (Slabs 20-30 mm)
± 1 mm
± 1.5 mm (Class T2)
EN 12058
⚠ Verify details from original standards before use