EN 480-12 Concrete - Additives for Mortar and Screed - Test for Determination of Alkaline Content of Additives

Material Testing

EN 480-12 Concrete - Additives for Mortar and Screed - Test for Determination of Alkaline Content of Additives

EUROLAB, with its state-of-the-art accredited laboratories and expert team, provides precise and fast testing services within the scope of EN 480-12 testing. This European Standard specifies a method for the determination of the alkali (sodium and potassium) content of concrete, mortar and grout mixtures according to the EN 934 series.

EN 480-12 Concrete - Additives for Mortar and Screed - Test for Determination of Alkaline Content of Additives

An atomic absorption spectrophotometer is used to measure sodium and potassium in dilute nitric acid extracts from additives. The extract is sprayed into an air/acetylene flame and the absorption of sodium or potassium radiation is measured as it passes through the flame. The amount of absorption is directly proportional to the low concentrations of sodium or potassium content of the extract.

The purpose of this test method is to determine the alkaline content of additives that may affect the durability of concrete structures. The high alkali content in additives can lead to an alkali-silica reaction (ASR), which over time can cause concrete to crack and deteriorate.

The test method involves dissolving the mixture in water and then titration of the solution with hydrochloric acid to determine the amount of alkali present. The alkali content is expressed as a percent by mass of the mixture.

The standard also includes procedures for sampling and preparing the mixing solution, as well as instructions for performing the titration and calculating the alkali content.

In general, the EN 480-12 standard provides a reliable and standardized method for determining the alkali content of additives necessary to ensure the durability and long-term performance of concrete structures. Using this standard, manufacturers, suppliers and additive users can ensure that their products meet the required specifications and do not pose an ASR risk.

EUROLAB assists manufacturers with EN 480-12 test compliance. Our test experts, with their professional working mission and principles, provide you, our manufacturers and suppliers, the best service and controlled testing process in our laboratories. Thanks to these services, businesses receive more effective, high-performance and quality testing services and provide safe, fast and uninterrupted service to their customers.

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