What is BS EN 480-12 - Alkali content of admixtures for concrete, mortar and grouts about?
BS EN 480 is a European standard that discusses test methods for admixtures for concrete, mortar and grout. The main aim of the BS EN 480 series is to provide the best industry guidance to ensure construction materials contribute to the structural integrity of your civil engineering works.
BS EN 480-12 is the 12th part of the BS EN 480 series that specifies a method for the determination of the alkali (sodium and potassium) content of admixtures for concrete, mortar and grouts in accordance with the series EN 934.
Who is BS EN 480-12 - Alkali content of admixtures for concrete, mortar and grouts for?
BS EN 480-12 on alkali content of admixtures for concrete, mortar and grouts is useful for:
- Manufacturers of admixtures for concrete, mortar and grout
- Quality control and testing personnel
- Civil engineers
- Contractors
- Concrete specialists
Why should you use BS EN 480-12 - Alkali content of admixtures for concrete, mortar and grouts?
Alkali content is defined as the content of sodium oxide (Na2O) and potassium oxide (K2O) in cement. An atomic absorption spectrophotometer is used to measure the sodium and potassium in dilute nitric acid extracts from admixtures. As an alternative to an atomic absorption spectrophotometer, a suitable calibrated flame photometer can be used for the determination of sodium and potassium in the test solutions prepared in accordance with BS EN 480-12.
In this regard, BS EN 480-12 provides the requirements for apparatus and reagents used for tests, along with recommendations on the preparation of calibration graphs and test procedure for testing alkali content of admixtures for concrete, mortar and grouts.
As a result, you can evaluate concrete performance and demonstrate the ability of materials to contribute to the stability and structural integrity of your construction works. Compliance with
BS EN 480-12 can also play a positive role in the concrete design mix for your construction projects.