Bs En 12390-2:2019 Official

Report: BS EN 12390-2:2019 - Testing Hardened Concrete: Part 2 - Making and Curing Specimens

Introduction

BS EN 12390-2:2019 is a European Standard that outlines the procedures for making and curing specimens of hardened concrete. This standard is part of a series of standards for testing hardened concrete, and it provides guidelines for the preparation of concrete specimens for testing. This report provides an overview of the standard, its significance, and key aspects of making and curing specimens.

Scope and Significance

The standard BS EN 12390-2:2019 covers the procedures for making and curing specimens of hardened concrete for testing. The standard is applicable to concrete made with normal weight aggregates, lightweight aggregates, and heavyweight aggregates. The standard provides guidelines for:

The significance of this standard lies in its ability to ensure that concrete specimens are made and cured in a consistent and controlled manner, which is essential for obtaining reliable and accurate test results.

Key Aspects of Making and Curing Specimens

The standard BS EN 12390-2:2019 covers several key aspects of making and curing specimens, including:

Requirements for Making Specimens

The standard outlines specific requirements for making specimens, including:

Requirements for Curing Specimens

The standard outlines specific requirements for curing specimens, including:

Conclusion

In conclusion, BS EN 12390-2:2019 provides guidelines for making and curing specimens of hardened concrete for testing. The standard ensures that specimens are made and cured in a consistent and controlled manner, which is essential for obtaining reliable and accurate test results. By following this standard, manufacturers and testing laboratories can ensure that their concrete specimens are prepared in accordance with European standards, which is essential for ensuring the quality and safety of concrete structures.

Recommendations

Based on the requirements of BS EN 12390-2:2019, it is recommended that:

Limitations

This report provides a general overview of BS EN 12390-2:2019 and should not be considered a substitute for the actual standard. It is essential to consult the standard and relevant regulatory requirements for specific guidance on making and curing concrete specimens.

BS EN 12390-2:2019 defines critical standards for molding, compacting, and curing concrete test specimens to ensure structural integrity and reliable strength evaluations. By establishing uniform procedures for specimen preparation, it enables accurate quality assurance and enhanced durability for concrete structures. For more details, visit en-standard.eu. BS EN 12390-2:2019 Concrete Testing | PDF - Scribd

BS EN 12390-2:2019 defines the standardized methods for making and curing concrete test specimens, such as cubes, cylinders, and prisms, to ensure accurate compressive and flexural strength results. The standard outlines specific procedures for molding, compaction, and environmental curing controls required for quality assurance and regulatory compliance. For more details, visit BSI Knowledge. BS EN 12390-2:2019 - TC | 31 Jul 2019 | BSI Knowledge

BS EN 12390-2:2019!

That's a British Standard (BS) and European Norm (EN) that outlines the testing methods for hardened concrete. Specifically, Part 2 of the standard focuses on the "Determination of compressive strength of test specimens".

Here's a brief overview:

Title: BS EN 12390-2:2019 - Testing hardened concrete - Part 2: Determination of compressive strength of test specimens

Summary: This standard specifies the method for determining the compressive strength of hardened concrete test specimens, including cubes, cylinders, and other shapes. The test is used to evaluate the strength of concrete in structures, and it's an essential aspect of quality control and assurance in construction.

Key aspects:

Why is it interesting?

Well, concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials in the world, and its compressive strength is a critical parameter in ensuring the safety and durability of structures. The BS EN 12390-2:2019 standard provides a widely accepted and reliable method for determining the compressive strength of concrete, which helps engineers, contractors, and researchers to:

The standard is an essential tool for anyone involved in the construction industry, from engineers and architects to contractors and materials scientists.

What specific aspects of BS EN 12390-2:2019 would you like to discuss or explore further?

BS EN 12390-2:2019 is the British Standard that dictates the procedures for making and curing specimens for strength tests on hardened concrete. It is a critical document for ensuring the consistency and reliability of compressive strength results in construction projects. Key Procedures in BS EN 12390-2:2019

The standard provides a step-by-step framework to ensure that test samples (cubes, cylinders, and prisms) accurately represent the concrete used on-site:

Apparatus & Equipment: Specifies the requirements for molds, compacting equipment (such as vibrating tables), and finishing tools like floats.

Molding & Compaction: Outlines how to fill molds and compact concrete to remove entrapped air, which is vital for achieving a representative strength profile.

Curing Protocols: Sets strict parameters for curing, typically requiring specimens to remain in their molds for at least 16 to 24 hours before being transferred to a water tank or mist room at a controlled temperature of

Handling & Transport: Includes guidelines for marking and transporting specimens to the laboratory to prevent damage that could compromise test results. Why This Standard Matters bs en 12390-2:2019

Following BS EN 12390-2:2019 is essential for Quality Assurance. If curing or molding is done incorrectly, the resulting strength tests—performed under BS EN 12390-3—may show "false failures," leading to unnecessary project delays or costly investigative work.

For professionals looking to stay compliant, the full standard can be accessed via BSI Knowledge or official Standard Distributors. BS EN 12390-2:2019 - TC | 31 Jul 2019 | BSI Knowledge

BS EN 12390-2:2019 the British and European standard that defines the procedures for making and curing concrete specimens for strength tests

. By standardizing how test cubes, cylinders, and prisms are handled, it ensures that the physical properties of the hardened concrete are measured accurately and consistently across different construction projects. Scope and Purpose

The standard provides a rigorous framework for preparing specimens used primarily for compressive and flexural strength testing. It covers the entire lifecycle of a test specimen, including: Preparation : Using non-reactive release agents to prevent sticking. : Layering concrete based on consistency. Compaction

: Prescribing specific mechanical (vibrating tables, internal vibrators) or hand methods (compacting rods).

: Establishing precise temperature and moisture requirements. Key Technical Procedures

Adhering to these steps is critical, as minor deviations can lead to significant variations in reported strength. Compaction

: The standard allows for multiple methods but warns against over-vibration, which can cause the loss of entrained air and lead to segregation. For hand compaction, it typically suggests 25 strokes per layer to remove entrapped air without disturbing entrained air. Initial Curing

: Specimens must remain in their molds for at least 16 hours but no more than three days at a temperature of

C. They must be protected from shock, vibration, and moisture loss (e.g., covered with polyethylene sheeting). Final Curing

: Once demolded, specimens are typically cured in a water tank at

C or in a humidity-controlled chamber with relative humidity

: When moving specimens to a laboratory, they must be protected from dehydration and temperature extremes using wet sand, sawdust, or sealed plastic bags. Significance in Construction The 2019 version supersedes the earlier 2009 edition and aligns with the broader EN 12390 series

for hardened concrete testing. Its implementation is vital for: Quality Control

: Verifying that the concrete delivered to a site meets the specified design strength.

: Ensuring structural integrity by identifying substandard batches before they become critical failures. Traceability

: Requiring detailed reporting of sampling, compaction, and curing conditions to maintain accountability.

For professionals like civil engineers and laboratory technicians, following the BS EN 12390-2:2019

standard is not just a regulatory requirement but a fundamental practice for building durable and safe infrastructure. comparative breakdown of the specific changes between the 2009 and 2019 versions?

BS EN 12390-2:2019 is the British and European standard that dictates the procedures for making and curing concrete specimens for strength testing. It is a critical document for ensuring that concrete samples (typically cubes or cylinders) are prepared consistently so that strength results are accurate and comparable. What This Standard Covers

The document outlines specific laboratory and field procedures to maintain the integrity of concrete samples from the moment they are cast until they are tested for hardened strength:

Preparation & Filling: Instructions for preparing moulds and the systematic filling process to avoid segregation.

Compaction: Standardized methods for compacting the concrete within the moulds using mechanical or manual tools to remove air pockets.

Surface Leveling & Marking: Procedures for finishing the top surface and clearly identifying each specimen for tracking.

Curing: Strict requirements for temperature and humidity—often involving water tanks or humidity chambers—to allow the concrete to gain strength properly before testing.

Transport: Guidelines for safely moving specimens from the site to the laboratory without causing internal damage. Why It’s Important

Standardization: It ensures that a 28-day strength test in one lab is directly comparable to a test in another.

Reliability: Improper curing (e.g., letting a specimen dry out too quickly) can lead to artificially low strength readings, potentially causing a project to fail inspection unnecessarily.

Safety: Adhering to these methods ensures that the concrete used in buildings and infrastructure truly meets the design's structural requirements. Key Resources BS EN 12390-2:2019 Concrete Testing | PDF - Scribd

BS EN 12390-2:2019 Testing Hardened Concrete: Making and Curing Specimens for Strength Tests

The BS EN 12390-2:2019 standard is a critical document for civil engineers, laboratory technicians, and construction professionals involved in concrete quality control. This European Standard specifies the methods for making and curing test specimens for strength tests on hardened concrete. Compliance with this standard ensures that concrete strength results are accurate, repeatable, and representative of the material's true potential. Understanding the Significance of the Standard

Concrete is a heterogeneous material, and its measured strength is highly sensitive to how it is handled in its plastic state and how it is treated during the early stages of hardening. BS EN 12390-2:2019 provides a rigorous framework to minimize variables during the sampling and preparation process. By standardizing the size of the molds, the compaction methods, and the temperature and humidity of the curing environment, the industry can compare results across different projects and regions with confidence. Scope and Application

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

To adhere to the standard, specific equipment must be used. Molds must be made of a non-absorbent, rigid material that does not react with cement paste. They must be watertight and capable of maintaining their shape under the pressure of compaction. Common materials include steel, cast iron, and certain high-density plastics. Report: BS EN 12390-2:2019 - Testing Hardened Concrete:

The standard also specifies the tools for compaction. Depending on the consistency of the concrete, this may include internal vibrators (poker vibrators), vibrating tables, or manual tamping rods. For manual compaction, the rod must be circular in cross-section, straight, and made of steel with a smooth finish. The Making of Test Specimens

The process begins with obtaining a representative sample of fresh concrete according to EN 12309-1. Once the sample is ready, the molds are prepared by applying a thin film of non-reactive release agent to the internal surfaces.

The concrete is placed in the molds in layers. The number of layers and the duration of vibration or number of tamps depend on the dimensions of the specimen and the workability of the mix. Over-vibration must be avoided as it can cause segregation, while under-compaction leads to voids that artificially lower the recorded strength. After compaction, the top surface is leveled using a trowel or float to create a smooth, flat finish. The Curing Process: A Critical Phase

Curing is perhaps the most vital step in the preparation of concrete specimens. BS EN 12390-2:2019 outlines strict parameters for both initial and long-term curing. Initial Curing

Specimens must remain in the molds for at least 16 hours but no longer than 3 days. During this time, they must be protected from shock, vibration, and dehydration. The temperature during this initial phase must be maintained between 20°C and 25°C in temperate climates, or higher in hot climates if specified. Covering the molds with plastic sheeting or wet burlap is a common practice to prevent moisture loss. Standard Curing

After removal from the molds (demolding), the specimens must be cured in water or in a mist room. If water curing is used, the specimens must be fully submerged in a tank. The water temperature must be maintained at a constant 20°C (± 2°C). If a mist room is used, the relative humidity must be kept above 95%. This controlled environment ensures that the hydration of the cement continues optimally, allowing the concrete to gain strength at a predictable rate. Marking and Documentation

Every specimen must be clearly and indelibly marked so that it can be traced back to its specific batch, location in the structure, and date of manufacture. Accurate record-keeping is a requirement of the standard, including details of the sampling procedure, the compaction method used, and the duration and conditions of the curing period. Differences Between Laboratory and Site Curing

While the standard primary focus is on "standard curing" to verify the potential strength of a mix design, it also acknowledges "site curing." Site-cured specimens are treated as closely as possible to the actual structure they represent. These are often used to determine when formwork can be safely removed or when post-tensioning can occur. However, site-cured results cannot be used for official compliance with the 28-day characteristic strength requirements unless specifically permitted. Conclusion

The BS EN 12390-2:2019 standard is a cornerstone of modern concrete technology. By following its detailed procedures for making and curing specimens, the construction industry ensures that the data used to make safety and structural decisions is robust and reliable. Whether you are a technician in a commercial lab or a site manager overseeing a major pour, a deep understanding of this standard is essential for maintaining the integrity of the built environment.

Title: Understanding BS EN 12390-2:2019: The Standard for Concrete Specimen Curing

Introduction

In the construction industry, the compressive strength of concrete is the primary metric for structural quality. However, the accuracy of this metric relies heavily on consistency. How a concrete sample is treated between the time it is cast and the time it is tested can drastically alter the results.

BS EN 12390-2:2019 (Testing hardened concrete – Part 2: Making and curing specimens for strength tests) is the European standard that governs this critical preparatory phase. It ensures that when concrete is tested in a laboratory, the results reflect the material's true potential, free from variables caused by poor handling.

This article provides an informative overview of the standard, its scope, and the key technical requirements for industry professionals.

Understanding the differences between the 2009 and 2019 versions is critical for laboratories seeking to maintain UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) accreditation or simply follow best practice.

| Aspect | BS EN 12390-2:2009 | BS EN 12390-2:2019 | |--------|--------------------|--------------------| | Mould material | Specified materials (metal, rigid plastic) | More detailed requirements for mould rigidity, dimensional tolerance, and re-use limits. | | Compaction methods | Vague guidance on rodding, vibration, etc. | Clarified compaction energy and process, especially for different consistence classes (slump classes S1 to S5). | | Surface finish | Minimal guidance. | Added requirement to record surface flatness deviation. | | Curing temperature | 20°C ± 2°C for water tanks. | Tightened to 20°C ± 1°C for sensitive applications (e.g., high-strength concrete >80 MPa). | | Transport of fresh specimens | Not detailed. | New clause on minimizing disturbance, vibration, and temperature change during transport from batching to lab. | | Demoulding time | 24 hours ± 4 hours typical. | More prescriptive: 24 hours ± 2 hours unless otherwise agreed, with justification for early demoulding. | | Curing records | Basic temperature checks. | Mandatory logging of temperature and relative humidity at defined intervals (every 4 hours if automated, or at least twice daily if manual). |

The 2019 version is more rigorous, less open to operator interpretation, and emphasizes traceability and documentation.

Introduction

Concrete is the most widely used construction material globally, and its compressive strength is the primary property governing structural design and safety assessment. However, the strength of a concrete sample is not an intrinsic, fixed value; it is profoundly influenced by how the test specimen is prepared, handled, and stored prior to testing. Recognizing this, the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) has developed a suite of standards under EN 12390. Among these, BS EN 12390-2:2019 – “Testing hardened concrete – Part 2: Making and curing specimens for strength tests” is a critical document. This standard provides the definitive methodology for producing consistent, representative, and reliable concrete test specimens, directly impacting quality control, compliance verification, and structural safety across the construction industry.

Scope and Purpose

BS EN 12390-2:2019 supersedes the 2009 edition and specifies procedures for making and curing test specimens from fresh concrete. Its primary purpose is to minimize variability introduced during specimen preparation, ensuring that the measured strength reflects the actual quality of the concrete in the structure, rather than artifacts of sample handling. The standard applies to specimens intended for compressive, flexural, or splitting tensile strength tests, covering both laboratory-cured specimens (for quality control and acceptance testing) and field-cured specimens (for assessing when formwork can be removed or when a structure can be loaded).

Key Requirements and Methodological Rigor

The standard is methodical in its approach, addressing every stage from molding to the moment before testing.

Changes Introduced in the 2019 Edition

Compared to the 2009 version, BS EN 12390-2:2019 includes several technical refinements:

Practical Importance and Industry Impact

The consequences of ignoring BS EN 12390-2:2019 can be severe. If specimens are not properly compacted, low strength results may lead to unnecessary rejection of acceptable concrete. Conversely, if specimens are cured under ideal water conditions while the structure dries in the sun, the results will be dangerously optimistic, potentially leading to premature removal of formwork or early loading, resulting in cracking or collapse.

For quality control laboratories, accredited testing firms, and construction contractors, adherence to this standard is often a condition of certification under ISO/IEC 17025. It enables repeatable, comparable, and legally defensible test data. Disputes over concrete strength are frequently traced back to non-compliance with specimen preparation and curing protocols, making this standard a cornerstone of forensic structural analysis.

Conclusion

BS EN 12390-2:2019 is more than a procedural checklist; it is a scientific framework that transforms a heterogeneous, wet material into reliable, testable specimens whose results can be trusted. By rigorously defining moulds, compaction, finishing, and—most critically—curing regimes, the standard ensures that the measured strength of a concrete cylinder or cube faithfully represents the structural material’s potential. For engineers, technicians, and quality managers, mastering and adhering to this standard is not merely a bureaucratic requirement but a fundamental duty to ensure safety, durability, and economic efficiency in concrete construction. As concrete technology evolves with new admixtures and sustainability targets, standards like BS EN 12390-2:2019 provide the essential stability and reproducibility needed to benchmark progress and guarantee performance.

Technical Overview: BS EN 12390-2:2019 BS EN 12390-2:2019 is a European standard adopted by the British Standards Institution (BSI) that specifies the methods for making and curing specimens for strength tests

of hardened concrete. It is a critical component of the EN 12390 series, which governs the testing of hardened concrete to ensure structural integrity and compliance with design specifications. 1. Scope and Application

The standard provides a rigorous framework for preparing concrete test specimens, such as cubes, cylinders, and prisms, from fresh concrete. These specimens are later used to determine mechanical properties like compressive and flexural strength. Primary Focus

: Standardizing the laboratory and site conditions for specimen preparation to minimize variability in test results. Relationship to Other Standards : It is often used in conjunction with BS EN 12350-1 (sampling fresh concrete) and BS EN 12390-3 (compressive strength testing). 2. Key Procedures for Making Specimens The significance of this standard lies in its

The preparation process is strictly defined to ensure homogeneity and representativeness of the concrete mix. Mould Preparation

: Specimens are typically cast in steel or rigid moulds that meet specific dimensional tolerances. Filling and Compaction

: Concrete is placed into moulds in layers and compacted using methods such as a vibrating table

, internal vibrator, or tamping rod to remove entrapped air. Surface Finishing

: After compaction, the top surface is leveled using a float or trowel to ensure a flat, smooth surface for testing. 3. Standard Curing Requirements

Curing is arguably the most critical phase, as it directly impacts the hydration process and ultimate strength development. BS EN 12390.2 - 2000 (Testing Hardened Concrete - Scribd

Uploaded by. ... Scope: Defines the scope of the standard, covering test specimen molding and curing for strength tests. Foreword:

✅ Before casting: Verify mould calibration and cleanliness.
✅ During filling: Use appropriate compaction method for slump class.
✅ After casting: Cover immediately; record time.
✅ Storage before demoulding: Maintain 20°C ± 5°C; protect from vibration.
✅ Demoulding: At 24 h ± 2 h; mark clearly; check for defects.
✅ Curing: Use lime-saturated water at 20°C ± 1°C (or ±2°C). Log continuously.
✅ Transport to test lab: Keep protected and avoid temperature shock.
✅ Documentation: Keep all logs for at least 10 years (as per project records).

By following BS EN 12390-2:2019 meticulously, you ensure that the compressive strength result reflects the concrete – not the mistakes of the technician. That is the essence of standardized testing.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Always refer to the full text of BS EN 12390-2:2019, available from BSI Group (British Standards Institution), for complete and legally binding requirements.

BS EN 12390-2:2019 defines strict, standardized procedures for making and curing hardened concrete specimens to ensure accurate, consistent strength test results. It mandates specific guidelines for mould preparation, compaction methods, and environmental controls for specimens during initial and final curing stages. For more details, visit BSI Knowledge

BS EN 12390-2:2019 dictates the standardized procedures for making and curing concrete test specimens to ensure accurate strength verification. The process involves precise preparation of moulds, compaction, and controlled curing at 20°C (± 2°C) to simulate real-world concrete performance. Learn more about these standards through BS EN 12390.2 - 2000 (Testing Hardened Concrete - Scribd

BS EN 12390-2:2019 is the definitive British and European standard for making and curing concrete test specimens. Published by the British Standards Institution (BSI), it ensures that cubes, cylinders, and prisms are prepared consistently so that strength tests—such as compressive and flexural strength—accurately reflect the concrete's quality. 🏗️ Core Purpose of the Standard

The main goal of BS EN 12390-2:2019 is to eliminate variables in the preparation process. If specimens are made or cured incorrectly, the resulting strength data may be falsely low, leading to unnecessary project delays or costly structural disputes. Key functions include:

Standardizing Preparation: Defining exactly how to fill and compact molds.

Controlling Curing: Specifying temperature and moisture conditions for hydration.

Ensuring Accuracy: Providing a reliable framework for Quality Control (QC) and compliance with structural designs. 🛠️ Key Procedures and Requirements 1. Apparatus and Molds

Specimens must be cast in molds that comply with BS EN 12390-1. Molds should be: Non-reactive: Materials must not affect the concrete.

Watertight: To prevent loss of cement paste or water during casting.

Lubricated: Treated with a non-reactive release agent for easy demolding. 2. Filling and Compaction

The concrete must be filled in layers to ensure full density without segregation. Acceptable compaction methods include:

Mechanical Vibration: Using a vibrating table or internal "poker" vibrator. Hand Compaction: Using a standard tamping rod or bar.

Surface Leveling: The top surface must be finished flat to ensure even loading during testing. 3. Initial Curing and Demolding Timeframe: Specimens typically remain in the mold for Environment: They must be kept at a temperature of 15∘C15 raised to the composed with power C 22∘C22 raised to the composed with power C 20∘C20 raised to the composed with power C

) and protected from moisture loss by covering them with plastic or wet burlap.

Demolding: Careful removal is required to avoid edge damage, which can weaken the specimen during a compression test. 4. Final Curing Conditions

Once demolded, specimens must be cured until the time of testing. Standard methods include:

BS EN 12390-2:2019 is the British Standard that specifies methods for making and curing test specimens for concrete strength tests. It provides a standardized framework to ensure that concrete cubes, cylinders, and prisms are prepared consistently, which is critical for accurate compressive strength assessments. 🏗️ Key Procedural Steps

The standard outlines the lifecycle of a test specimen from the moment it is cast until it is ready for testing:

Mould Preparation: Moulds must conform to BS EN 12390-1 and be coated with a non-reactive release agent to prevent sticking.

Filling and Compaction: Concrete is filled in layers and compacted using methods like: Mechanical: Internal poker vibrators or vibrating tables.

Manual: Compacting rods or bars (typically at least 25 tamps per layer).

Surface Leveling: After compaction, the top surface is leveled using a steel trowel or float to ensure a smooth, flat finish.

Initial Curing: Specimens remain in their moulds for 16 hours to 3 days at a temperature of in hot climates), protected from shock and dehydration.

Final Curing: After demoulding, specimens are typically stored in water at or in a humidity chamber with relative humidity until the test date. 📋 Reporting Requirements A formal test report must be generated, including: Unique identification of the test sample. The exact date and time the specimens were made. The specific method of compaction used. Details of the curing conditions and duration. Any deviations from the standard procedures. 🛡️ Why This Standard Matters

Consistency: Standardizing preparation ensures that variations in test results are due to the concrete mix itself, not how the specimen was handled.

Safety: Accurate strength data is fundamental to verifying the structural integrity of buildings and infrastructure.

Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to this standard—which supersedes the 2009 version—is often a contractual or legal requirement for European construction projects. SLOVENSKI STANDARD SIST EN 12390-2:2019