Testing Air Content in ConcreteTesting air-entrained concrete with an air meter (ASTM C231, ASTM C173)
A Type B pressure meter is used to determine the air content of normal-weight concrete. The air content is read at the dial, which is calibrated for each apparatus. The aggregate correction factor (explained in ASTM C 231) must be subtracted from your reading to obtain the net air content. (Photo courtesy of PCA.
Air-entrained concrete is typically specified in areas of the country where frost-related damage can occur. The measurement of air content in fresh concrete of normal density is typically performed using the pressure method (ASTM C 231). Another useful test is ASTM C 173. However, the pressure method is frequently preferred because it is relatively fast.
You should begin the test within 15 minutes after obtaining the composite sample. Start by filling the 0.25 ft3 base of the air-content test device in three equal layers, and rod each layer 25 times. After rodding, strike the outside of the base with a mallet 12 to 15 times to close any air voids. After completing the three equal layers, strike off the bowl flush at the top to completely fill the 0.25 ft3 volume. At this point, it can be weighed as part of the calculation to determine the fresh concrete unit weight.
Next, latch the top of the air-content test device over the base and fill the air gap between the top of the struck-off concrete and the underside of the top of air meter with water. The meter top is then pressurized with the built-in hand pump until zeroed out (or as calibrated). After a stabilization period, release the pressure in the top and read the air-void content on the dial on the top of the meter. Subtract the aggregate correction factor from the dial reading and report the final value.
Testing tip: A typical air content for concrete with a ¾-inch maximum-size aggregate is about 6%, and specified ranges in air content are typically minus 1 ½% and plus 1 ½% of the target value.