12390-2:2019 — Bs En
BS EN 12390-2:2019 recognises the equivalence of different curing environments. Curing specimens in a closely regulated humidity chamber is considered equivalent to curing in water, provided the correct conditions are maintained.
This part of the EN 12390 series applies to specimens made from concrete with a maximum aggregate size of 40 mm or less. It covers the preparation of cubes, cylinders, and prisms. The standard is used both for specimens made in a laboratory setting and those made on-site to verify the quality of concrete being delivered to a structure. Essential Equipment Requirements
Obtain a representative sample of concrete according to BS EN 12350-1. Fill the molds in layers. For standard cubes and cylinders, concrete is typically placed in two or three equal layers depending on the compaction method used. 3. Compaction bs en 12390-2:2019
Eliminating variables in sample preparation, allowing for accurate comparison between different batches of concrete. Conclusion
The 2019 edition adds clarity on transporting specimens from the site to the laboratory, stipulating that they must be protected from vibration, impact, and temperature extremes. Mishandling can induce micro-cracks that significantly reduce apparent strength. BS EN 12390-2:2019 recognises the equivalence of different
┌──────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ Freshly Cast Specimen │ └────────────────────┬─────────────────────┘ │ ▼ ┌──────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ Initial Curing │ │ • Leave in mould for 16 to 72 hours │ │ • Temperature: 20°C (± 2°C or ± 5°C) │ │ • Protect from wind, solar, and shock │ └────────────────────┬─────────────────────┘ │ ▼ ┌──────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ Demoulding Phase │ │ • Carefully remove without damage │ │ • Permanently mark the specimen ID │ └────────────────────┬─────────────────────┘ │ ▼ ┌──────────────────────────────────────────┐ │ Long-Term Curing │ │ • Submerge in water at 20°C (± 2°C) │ │ - OR - │ │ • Mist room at 20°C (± 2°C) & >95% RH │ └──────────────────────────────────────────┘ Initial Curing (In the Mould)
Executed using a standard compacting bar. The strokes must be distributed uniformly across the cross-section of the mould, penetrating through the layer being compacted into the underlying layer. Step 4: Topping and Leveling It covers the preparation of cubes, cylinders, and prisms
On the day of testing, specimens are removed from the curing water. The standard dictates the following: Specimens are weighed to determine density.
Great care must be taken when removing the moulds. If the concrete is damaged during this process, the specimen is compromised. Once demoulded, the specimens should be marked clearly and permanently.
Enhanced documentation requirements regarding the tracking of curing history. Testing and Documentation