BS EN 480-10

Full Name

BS EN 480-10 – Admixtures for Concrete, Mortar and Grout

Scope

BS EN 480-10 is a British standard that outlines the precise methodology for quantifying the water-soluble chloride content within admixtures designed for concrete, mortar, and grout. The presence of chloride ions can significantly compromise the durability of concrete structures, particularly in environments exposed to de-icing salts or other chloride-containing substances. By accurately measuring the chloride content of admixtures, stakeholders can assess their potential impact on the long-term performance of concrete-based infrastructure.

The test procedure involves a two-step process:

  1. Extraction: a specific solvent is employed to extract the water-soluble chlorides from the admixture sample.
  2. Titration: the extracted solution is then subjected to titration using a silver nitrate solution. The amount of silver nitrate required to neutralize the chloride ions provides a direct correlation to the chloride content in the original admixture.

BS EN 480-10 is applicable to a wide range of admixtures used in concrete, mortar, and grout construction, including:

  • Chemical admixtures: substances that modify the properties of concrete, such as water reducers, air-entraining agents, and superplasticizers.
  • Mineral admixtures: inorganic materials added to concrete to enhance its properties, such as fly ash, silica fume, and ground granulated blast furnace slag.

Adherence to BS EN 480-10 offers several significant benefits:

  • Durability assessment: by understanding the chloride content of admixtures, engineers and contractors can evaluate the potential for chloride-induced corrosion and make informed decisions regarding the design and construction of concrete structures.
  • Quality control: compliance with this standard ensures that admixtures meet specified quality standards, reducing the risk of premature deterioration and costly repairs.
  • Regulatory compliance: BS EN 480-10 is often referenced in building codes and regulations, making it essential for ensuring compliance with industry standards.

BS EN 480-10 Accredited Laboratory

Applied Testing & Geosciences, LLC is accredited for performing tests using the BS EN 480-10 standard.

Contact us today to learn more about our testing services and how we can assist you in meeting the requirements of BS EN 480-10.

Resources

Keywords

admixture; chloride content; concrete; mortar; grout; test methods; determination; water soluble; halogens; total; standard; methods