BS EN 12390-11:2015

BSI Standards Publication

Testing hardened concrete

Part 11: Determination of the chloride
resistance of concrete, unidirectional
diffusion
BS EN 12390-11:2015 BRITISH STANDARD

National foreword
This British Standard is the UK implementation of EN 12390-11:2015.
It supersedes DD CEN/TS 12390-11:2010 which is withdrawn.
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted to Technical
Committee B/517/1, Concrete production and testing.
A list of organizations represented on this committee can be
obtained on request to its secretary.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary
provisions of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct
application.
© The British Standards Institution 2015. Published by BSI Standards
Limited 2015
ISBN 978 0 580 88230 2
ICS 91.100.30
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal obligations.
This British Standard was published under the authority of the
Standards Policy and Strategy Committee on 31 August 2015.
Amendments issued since publication
Date Text affected
 BS EN 12390-11:2015

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 12390-11

NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM August 2015

ICS 91.100.30 Supersedes CEN/TS 12390-11:2010

English Version

Testing hardened concrete - Part 11: Determination of the

chloride resistance of concrete, unidirectional diffusion

Essais pour béton durci - Partie 11 : Détermination de la Prüfung von Festbeton - Teil 11: Bestimmung des
résistance du béton à la pénétration des chlorures, diffusion Chloridwiderstandes von Beton - Einseitig gerichtete
unidirectionnelle Diffusion

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 19 June 2015.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national
standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the same
status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and United
Kingdom.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels

© 2015 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 12390-11:2015 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Contents Page

European foreword .............................................................................................................................................3

Introduction .........................................................................................................................................................5
1 Scope ......................................................................................................................................................6
2 Normative references ............................................................................................................................6
3 Term, definitions symbols and abbreviated terms.............................................................................6
3.1 Terms and definitions ...........................................................................................................................6
3.2 Symbols and abbreviated terms ..........................................................................................................7
4 Principle ..................................................................................................................................................8
5 Reagents and apparatus .......................................................................................................................8
5.1 Reagents .................................................................................................................................................8
5.2 Apparatus ...............................................................................................................................................9
6 Preparation of specimens .................................................................................................................. 10
6.1 Preparing sub-specimens .................................................................................................................. 10
6.2 Conditioning and preparation of profile specimen for chloride testing ....................................... 11
7 Procedure ............................................................................................................................................ 13
7.1 Exposure conditions .......................................................................................................................... 13
7.2 Exposure method................................................................................................................................ 14
7.3 Exposure period.................................................................................................................................. 14
7.4 Determination of initial chloride content (Ci) ................................................................................... 14
7.5 Profile grinding ................................................................................................................................... 15
7.6 Chloride analysis ................................................................................................................................ 16
8 Regression procedure and expression of results ........................................................................... 16
9 Test report ........................................................................................................................................... 19
10 Precision .............................................................................................................................................. 19
Annex A (informative) Diffusion coefficients ................................................................................................ 21
Annex B (informative) Core test specimen .................................................................................................... 22
Annex C (informative) Typical equipment and procedure for vacuum saturation .................................... 23
Annex D (normative) Immersion method for large specimens.................................................................... 25
Annex E (informative) Guidance on the test procedure ............................................................................... 26
Annex F (informative) Examples for calibration of the calculation procedure for regression
analysis ................................................................................................................................................ 28
Bibliography ..................................................................................................................................................... 33

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EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

European foreword

This document (EN 12390-11:2015) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 104 “Concrete and
related products”, the secretariat of which is held by DIN.

This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical
text or by endorsement, at the latest by February 2016 and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn
at the latest by February 2016.

Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. CEN [and/or CENELEC] shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.

This document supersedes CEN/TS 12390-11:2010.

In comparison to CEN/TS 12390-11:2010, the following changes have been made:

— In Clause 2, the normative references have been updated;

— In Clause 8, a minimum value of the coefficient of determination has been added and further guidance on
the calculations has been added;

— In Clause 9, a graph and details of points included and excluded plus the coefficient of determination
have been added;

— In Clause 10, Table 3 has been added;

— A new Annex E (informative) "Guidance on test procedure" has been added;

— A new Annex F (informative) "Examples for calibration of the calculation procedure for regression
analysis" has been added;

— The Bibliography has been reviewed;

— The standard has been revised editorially.

The drafting of this European Standard was delegated to CEN/TC 51(CEN/TC104)/JWG12/TG5.

This test method is one of a series concerned with testing concrete. At the behest of CEN, RILEM reviewed
chloride testing methods [1] and this European Standard is based on their recommendations. In addition, this
th
European Standard draws on recommendations from the EU-project “Chlortest” 5 Framework Programme
(GRD1-2002-71808/G6RD-CT-2002-00855) [2] immersion test recommendation as well as the Nordtest
Method NT Build 443 Concrete, hardened: Accelerated Chloride penetration [3].

The series EN 12390, Testing hardened concrete includes the following parts:

— Part 1: Shape, dimensions and other requirements of specimens and moulds

— Part 2: Making and curing specimens for strength tests

— Part 3: Compressive strength testing of specimens

— Part 4: Compressive strength - Specification of testing machines

— Part 5: Flexural strength of test specimens

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EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

— Part 6: Tensile splitting strength of test specimens

— Part 7: Density of hardened concrete

— Part 8: Depth of penetration of water under pressure

— Part 9: Freeze-thaw resistance - Scaling (Technical Specification)

— Part 10: Determination of the relative carbonation resistance of concrete (Technical Specification)

— Part 11: Determination of the chloride resistance of concrete, unidirectional diffusion

— Part 13: Determination of the secant modulus of elasticity in compression

According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following
countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech
Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece,
Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal,
Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom.

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EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Introduction

Steel reinforced concrete structures exposed to the ingress of chloride, either from seawater or other sources,
need to be durable for at least the intended working life. The possibility of reinforcement corrosion is
significantly increased as the chloride level at the embedded reinforcement increases. For this reason the
chloride diffusivity or penetrability of the concrete is an important property to measure and this European
Standard sets out a test method that may be applied to specimens cast or core specimens to assess the
potential chloride resistance properties of a concrete mix.

Specifications regarding the test procedure with core specimens are given in Annex B.

NOTE This test method takes a minimum of 119 d comprising a minimum age of the specimen prior to testing of
28 d, a minimum of one day to prepare and condition the specimen and then 90 d to expose the specimen to the chloride
solution.

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1 Scope

This European Standard is a method for determining the unidirectional non-steady state chloride diffusion and
surface concentration of conditioned specimens of hardened concrete. The test method enables the
determination of the chloride penetration at a specified age, e.g. for ranking of concrete quality by comparative
testing. Since resistance to chloride penetration depends on the ageing, including the effects of continual
hydration, then the ranking may also change with age.

The test procedure does not apply to concrete with surface treatments such as silanes and it may not apply to
concrete containing fibres (see E.1).

2 Normative references

The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.

EN 12390-2, Testing hardened concrete - Part 2: Making and curing specimens for strength tests

EN 14629, Products and systems for the protection and repair of concrete structures - Test methods -
Determination of chloride content in hardened concrete

3 Term, definitions symbols and abbreviated terms

For the purposes of this document, the following terms, definitions, symbols and abbreviated terms apply.

3.1 Terms and definitions

3.1.1
as-cast surface
surface of a concrete element exposed in the construction works to a chloride environment

3.1.2
chloride content
amount of acid-soluble chloride expressed in percent by mass of concrete

3.1.3
chloride penetration
ingress of chlorides into concrete due to exposure to external chloride sources

3.1.4
diffusion
movement of molecules or ions under a concentration gradient, that is movement from a zone of high
concentration to a zone with a lower concentration

3.1.5
diffusion coefficient
proportionality between the molecular flux (e.g. rate of flow of chloride ions) and the concentration gradient in
the diffusion equation

Note 1 to entry: In this European Standard Fick’s Law is adopted.

Note 2 to entry: See Annex A.

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3.1.6
initial chloride content
Ci
chloride content at a distance sufficiently remote from the exposed surface as to not have been influenced by
penetration of the chloride exposure solution

Note 1 to entry: It reflects the initial chloride content that came from the constituents when the concrete was mixed.

3.1.7
non-steady state diffusion coefficient
Dnss
diffusion coefficient that takes into account simultaneous chloride binding

Note 1 to entry: The steady-state chloride diffusion coefficient is measured on water saturated specimens where
chloride diffuses through a thin specimen between two reservoirs of chloride solution, where one reservoir is at a higher
concentration than the other. This steady state chloride diffusion is not covered by this test method. The steady-state
chloride diffusion coefficient only reflects the ionic transport diffusion through concrete, as the concrete is unable to bind
any more chloride ion.

Note 2 to entry: See Annex A.

3.1.8
profile grinding
dry process grinding a concrete specimen in thin successive layers

3.1.9
vacuum saturated condition
specimen that is vacuum saturated with water

3.2 Symbols and abbreviated terms

Ci Initial chloride content, % by mass of concrete;

Cm,j Measured chloride content of concrete layer j, % by mass of concrete

Cr,j Chloride content of layer j calculated according to Formula (1) using the most suitable
combination of Cs and Dnss, % by mass of concrete

Cs Calculated chloride content at the exposed surface, % by mass of concrete

Cx Chloride content measured at average depth x and exposure time t, % by mass of

concrete
2 -1
Dnss Non-steady state chloride diffusion coefficient, m s ;

F Sum of squares of the residuals

-2
FR Flow rate (flux) in mol m ·s

j1 to Ground layer defined in terms of the number of layers from the exposed surface, the
jn surface layer being j1

r Repeatability

R Reproducibility
2
R Coefficient of determination

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sr Repeatability standard deviation

sR Reproducibility standard deviation

S Sum of squares

t Exposure time, seconds.

u Variable of the integral with no units

x Depth below the exposed surface to the mid-point of the ground layer j, m;

z Adimensional parameter with no units

3
∂c / ∂x Gradient of concentration with the concentration expressed in mol/m

4 Principle

A specimen, either a cylinder or cube, shall be cast and cured in accordance with EN 12390-2, with a curing
period of not less than 28 d.

Annex B gives guidance on the testing of core specimens, where the core may be sampled from a test
element, a precast concrete element or a structure.

The specimen is divided into two sub-specimens, a ‘profile specimen’ that is used to determine the chloride
profile after exposure to unidirectional chloride ingress, and an initial chloride sub-specimen that is used to
determine the initial chloride level, Ci. This initial figure is taken as the chloride level of the cast concrete.

The profile specimen is vacuum saturated with distilled or demineralized water, coated on all sides but one
and then the uncoated face is exposed to a chloride exposure solution. The exposure is achieved by either
complete immersion, ponding the uncoated face or inverting the specimen and having the uncoated face
immersed in the chloride exposure solution. The reference solution is a 3 % by mass sodium chloride (NaCl)
solution, for a period of 90 d (other concentrations or solutions, e.g. artificial seawater, are permitted as are
different exposure periods). The use of large fully immersed specimens is described in Annex D.

After 90 d of exposure, at least 8 parallel layers of the chloride exposed surface are ground off the profile
specimen. The acid-soluble chloride content of each layer and the average depth of the layer from the surface
of the concrete exposed to the chloride solution are determined. The initial chloride content is determined by
grinding a sample from the other sub-specimen and the acid-soluble chloride content determined.

By non-linear regression analysis by least squares curve fitting, the surface chloride content (Cs) and the non-
steady state chloride diffusion coefficient (Dnss) are determined.

Because of the high coefficient of variation, ~ 15 – 30 % for Dnss for the test, the number of specimens should
be increased until the required precision is achieved. The results shall be reported separately and the average
value.

NOTE 1 The chloride diffusion coefficient varies with the age of the concrete and the period of exposure.

NOTE 2 The diffusion test described in this European Standard is only valid for a constant initial chloride content.

5 Reagents and apparatus

5.1 Reagents

Reagents of analytical quality shall be used.

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NOTE Unless otherwise stated ‘percent’ means percent by mass.

5.1.1 Calcium hydroxide, Ca(OH)2.

5.1.2 Chloride exposure solution.

5.1.2.1 Reference solution

Dissolve 30 g of analytical quality NaCl in 970 g of distilled or demineralized water having an electrical
-1
conductivity ≤ 0,5 mSm at 20 °C to produce a 3 % by mass NaCl solution. Store it in a clean container.

NOTE This NaCl solution has a similar chloride concentration to that of Atlantic seawater.

5.1.2.2 Other exposure solutions

Where the concentration of the chloride exposure solution is other than that in 5.1.2.1, the concentration shall
be recorded and reported. Where a different solution is used the composition of the solution shall be recorded
and reported.

NOTE 1 Natural and artificial seawater have been used to reflect the exposure of the construction works.

NOTE 2 Higher concentrations of NaCl, such as 16,5 %, and shorter exposure periods (e.g. 35 d) have been used to
accelerate the development of a chloride profile.

5.1.3 Chloride ion diffusion proof two-component polyurethane or epoxy-based paint or other
equivalent barrier system.

5.1.4 Chemicals for chloride analysis, to EN 14629.

-1
5.1.5 Distilled or demineralized water, having an electrical conductivity ≤ 0,5 mSm .

5.2 Apparatus

5.2.1 Water cooled diamond saw.

5.2.2 Balance for weighing NaCl and water, capable of weighing to an accuracy of ± 0,1 g.

5.2.3 Thermometer, capable of measuring to an accuracy of ± 1 °C.

5.2.4 Temperature controlled chamber capable of keeping a temperature of 20 °C ± 2 °C.

5.2.5 Where used, a polyethylene container with airtight lid for immersion of the profile specimen.
The volume of the exposure solution shall exceed the volume of the specimen by not less than 12,5 ml per
2
cm of exposed surface. A container may contain more than one specimen provided at least the minimum
ratio of exposure solution to exposed surface is achieved. The ratio of exposure solution to exposed surface
shall be recorded and reported.

During the test, the chloride concentration of the chloride exposure solution reduces and if the ratio of the
volume of chloride exposure solution to exposure surface varies, the rate of reduction will vary with nominally
identical concrete. For this reason if a direct comparison of results from different specimens is required, the
ratio of the volume of chloride exposure solution to exposed surface should be constant.

5.2.6 Where used, pond to be attached to profile specimen. The ponds shall have a constant diameter
and initial depth not less than 125 mm.

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5.2.7 Equipment for grinding off and collecting concrete powder in layers less than 2 mm deep,
2
capable of grinding a surface area of at least 40 cm and not grinding within 10 mm of the edge of the test
area.

5.2.8 Compressed air or air blower, to clean dust from specimen and equipment between grinding layers.

5.2.9 Dust collecting bags.

5.2.10 Equipment for chloride content testing, in accordance with EN 14629.

5.2.11 Calliper, measuring to an accuracy of ± 0,1 mm.

5.2.12 Vacuum container, capable of containing at least three specimens.

5.2.13 Vacuum pump, capable of maintaining an absolute pressure of less than 50 mbar (5kPa) in the
container, e.g. a water-jet pump.

6 Preparation of specimens

6.1 Preparing sub-specimens

A specimen size shall be selected such that after cutting, the minimum dimension of the sub-specimens used
to determine a chloride profile are at least three times the nominal maximum aggregate size. At least two
specimens, either 100 mm diameter or more cylinders or 100 mm or more cubes, are cast and cured in a
water filled bath with a temperature of 20 °C ± 2 °C in accordance with EN 12390-2, where the curing period is
not less than 28 d.

NOTE 1 The aim of the test will normally be to assess the potential resistance to chloride ingress for a concrete mix.
Where the concrete contains secondary cementing materials, such as fly ash or ground granulated blastfurnace slag, then
it may be appropriate to increase the minimum age at testing as it is known that chloride resistance may increase
significantly at ages greater than 28 d.

After at least 28 d of standard curing, each cylinder, cube or prism is cut into two sub-specimens using the
water cooled diamond saw. Cylindrical specimens are cut in the direction parallel to the flat surface and
cubical specimens are cut in the direction parallel to the top (trowelled) surface as shown in Figure 1. The
tested surface should be free of voids and visible cracks. No dimension of the sub-specimens used to
determine a chloride profile shall be less than three times the nominal maximum aggregate size. One sub-
specimen (called the ‘profile specimen’) is used to determine the chloride profile, and the initial chloride sub-
specimen is used to determine the initial chloride content. This initial chloride content is taken as being the
chloride content of the cast concrete. The adjacent sawn faces are used to determine these values.

NOTE 2 Where a chloride profile is required that incorporates the effect of a formed surface then a formed surface from
a cube specimen may be specified as the surface for chloride exposure. However, the results from such a procedure are
difficult to interpret due to variations in the concentration of cement paste and chloride at the formed surface. The use of
this approach will be reported under sub-clause 9 m), as it is a non-standard test condition.

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Key
1 trowelled surface
2 cut to separate specimens and produce exposure surface

Figure 1 — Specimen preparation

After sawing, the sub-specimen to be used to determine the initial chloride content shall be placed in a close
fitting sealed plastic bag or tested immediately.

Where needed, the sub-specimens may be sawn to reduce their size to aid handling, but the sub-specimen for
determining the chloride profile shall not have any dimension less than three times the nominal maximum
aggregate size.

6.2 Conditioning and preparation of profile specimen for chloride testing

6.2.1 Vacuum saturation of the profile specimens

After sawing the specimens, vacuum saturate the profile specimens with water. Annex C shows a typical
arrangement for vacuum saturation. Place the profile specimens in the vacuum container and reduce the
absolute pressure to a value between 10 mbar to 50 mbar (1 kPa to 5 kPa) within a few minutes of closing the
container. Maintain this absolute pressure for 3 h and then with the vacuum pump still running, fill the
container with distilled or demineralized water until that all the profile specimens are completely immersed.
Maintain the absolute pressure for a further hour before allowing air to re-enter the container.

Leave the profile specimens immersed in either this water or normal curing tank water until the process of
surface sealing starts, see E.2.

6.2.2 Sealing surfaces other than the surface to be exposed

Start the sealing within 24 h of completing the vacuum saturation. All surfaces of the profile specimen except
for the sawn face shall be sealed, see Annex D for an exception. After sealing the surfaces, place the
specimens in saturated calcium hydroxide solution for 18 h.

NOTE 1 The purpose of sealing the faces other than the face exposed to the chloride solution is to ensure that the
ingress of chloride ions into the concrete is a pure unidirectional diffusion process and not a mixture of diffusion and other
processes, e.g. capillary suction.

The requirement to seal the faces may be achieved in a number of ways. The following techniques have
established suitability.

a) Sealing technique for immersion, ponding or inversion

The profile specimen shall be dried in laboratory air until its surface is ‘white-dry’.

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NOTE 2 This usually takes between 2 h to 4 h.

All faces except the face to be exposed to the chloride solution shall be coated with a layer of epoxy or
polyurethane, paraffin wax, or equivalent making sure that the surface to be tested remains free of the coating
material. The coating material shall be applied and cured in accordance with the recommendations of the
manufacturer.

NOTE 3 Not all epoxy resins and polyurethanes are suitable for this application.

b) Alternate sealing technique for ponding

This technique is only applicable to specimens that are to be ponded. Dry the surfaces with a cloth to remove
free water and wrap all faces except the face to be exposed to the chloride solution with insulating tape
ensuring sufficient overlap of joints.

6.2.3 Profile specimen for immersion

After storage in saturated calcium hydroxide solution, the specimen shall be transferred directly to exposure
without surface drying. A suitable arrangement is shown in Figure 2.

Key
2
1 chloride solution not less than 12,5 ml per cm of exposed surface
2 seal surfaces
3 exposed surface

Figure 2 — Example of an immersed specimen and sealed surfaces

6.2.4 Profile specimen for ponding

After storage in saturated calcium hydroxide solution, a pond is sealed to the surface of the specimen in a
manner that prevents leakage of the chloride exposure solution. A suitable arrangement is shown in Figure 3,
noting that the volume of the pond is as defined in 5.2.6. The external border between the plastic tube and
specimen is sealed to prevent leakage. The diameter of the tube used to form the pond may be 10 mm to
20 mm less than the diameter of the specimen to allow the formation of a watertight seal.

NOTE At the edge of such specimens there will not be unidirectional chloride ingress.

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An alternative technique is to use a slightly larger tube and a rubber gasket between the tube and the sealed
side of the specimen.

Key
1 pond
2 seal
3 profile specimen

Figure 3 — Example of a profile specimen and pond sealed to surface

6.2.5 Profile specimen for inversion

After sealing in accordance with 6.2.2 and storage in the calcium hydroxide solution, the specimen shall be
transferred directly to the inversion exposure apparatus without surface drying. A suitable arrangement is
2
shown in Figure 4. The volume of the exposure solution shall not be less than 12,5 ml per cm of exposed
surface.

Dimensions in millimetres

Key
1 sealant on specimen
2 NaCI solution

Figure 4 — Example of an inversion specimen arrangement

7 Procedure

7.1 Exposure conditions

7.1.1 Chloride exposure solution

Unless specified otherwise, the chloride exposure solution shall be a 3 % NaCl solution in accordance with
5.1.2.1. If the chloride exposure solution is other than the reference solution (see 5.1.2.2), it shall be reported.
The chloride exposure solution concentration after use shall be measured, recorded and reported.

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Where testing is related to the intended use in a specific exposure condition, the chloride exposure solution
should reflect the anticipated exposure conditions taking into account the expected depletion of chloride (see
E.3).

NOTE 1 During the test period the concentration of the chloride exposure solution will reduce. The volume of chloride
exposure solution has been selected so that it does not have to be replaced during a test lasting 90 d. If a longer test
period is required, it is advised to replace the chloride exposure solution at 91-day intervals.

NOTE 2 Fick’s Law is based on the assumption that the external chloride concentration remains constant during the
duration of the test. In the normal test situation, the error introduced by assuming that the chloride concentration remains
constant at the initial concentration is small.

7.1.2 Exposure temperature

Where used, the temperature of the water bath for the immersion specimen, the temperature of the chloride
exposure solution in the inversion method and the temperature of the chamber used to store the ponded
specimen shall be maintained at 20 °C ± 2 °C and confirmed at least once per day and the mean and range
over the duration of the test reported.

7.2 Exposure method

7.2.1 General

The exposed (sawn) surface of the profile specimens shall be in direct and continuous contact with the
chloride exposure solution either by immersion, ponding or inversion. The age of the specimen when it is first
exposed to the chloride exposure solution shall be recorded and reported.

7.2.2 Immersion

Profile specimens to be immersed shall be placed within the container containing the chloride exposure
solution and the container completely filled with the solution and sealed. This sealed container shall be placed
in the water bath.

7.2.3 Ponding

For ponded specimens, the pond shall be completely filled with chloride exposure solution and then sealed
with a plastic film. The whole assembly is then placed within a closed chamber maintaining a relative humidity
≥ 95 %. If the high relative humidity is achieved by partial filling of the chamber with water, the specimens
shall be kept in a manner that prevents direct contact with this water.

7.2.4 Inversion

The profile specimen is turned upside down and placed with the exposure surface immersed in the chloride
exposure solution. It shall be fixed in a manner that ensures the whole exposed surface being in contact, and
remaining in contact, with the solution, e.g. supported on an open mesh that is fixed below the surface of the
chloride exposure solution. The specimens shall be placed in the solution in a manner that minimises the risk
of entrapped air. The chamber shall be sealed to prevent evaporation.

7.3 Exposure period

The reference period of chloride exposure is 90 d.

7.4 Determination of initial chloride content (Ci)

Recover the initial chloride content specimen from the plastic bag. A 1 mm layer shall be ground from the
sawn surface of the initial chloride content specimen and discarded. The same surface is then ground to

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obtain a 20 g sample of dust for chloride analysis. The acid-soluble chloride content is determined in
accordance with EN 14629 and expressed as percentage by mass of concrete and it is designated Ci.

The initial chloride content may be determined from a single specimen per mix. The content obtained shall be
evaluated based on the mix design and the source of the materials.

NOTE The user of the test results needs to be aware of the initial chloride content being unrealistically high or low.

7.5 Profile grinding

After 90 d and within 2 h of removing the specimen from the exposure solution at least eight parallel layers of
the profile specimen shall be dry ground where each layer gives a sample of not less than 5 g of dry concrete,
and where layer 1 (surface layer) also has a thickness of not less than 1,0 mm. The thickness of the layers
shall be adjusted according to the expected chloride profile so that a minimum of 6 points covers the profile
between the exposed surface and a depth where the chloride content is above the initial chloride content.
Table 1 gives recommended depth intervals for CEM I concrete and Table 2 depth intervals for concretes
containing fly ash, ground granulated blastfurnace slag or silica fume. Both tables are based on specimens
that have been exposed for 28 d of standard curing followed by 90 d exposure to a chloride solution.

NOTE 1 The values in Tables 1 and 2 may not be appropriate for more mature concrete or concrete taken from
existing structures.

NOTE 2 In normal circumstances all seven layers would be included in the profile (the surface layer value is not
included in the profile). The criterion for a minimum of six points is to prevent the whole test being made invalid if one layer
is shown to be an outlier.

NOTE 3 Further guidance on the procedure for profile grinding is given in reference [4].

After grinding, keep the remainder of the profile specimen in a close fitting sealed plastic bag until the profile
has been calculated. If the chloride content in the deepest layer is more than Ci % by mass of concrete
+ 0,015 % by mass of concrete, grind off further layers so that a complete profile is established. To ensure
that a complete profile has been achieved, i.e. the exposure solution has not penetrated the whole profile
specimen, the last layer shall be at a depth of not less than the profile specimen thickness less 10 mm.

The concrete specimens shall be dry ground and grinding shall be performed over a surface area of at least
2
40 cm and within a boundary that is 10 mm inside the boundary of the contact zone to avoid edge effects and
disturbances from the coating.

The profile specimen shall be securely fixed parallel to the grinder and a dust collection bag, e.g. a plastic
bag, shall be fixed in position to collect the dust. Each layer should produce at least 5 g of dust. After grinding
each layer, clean the equipment and profile specimen surface of any residual dust with compressed air or an
air blower, then measure the depth of the layer. The depth of the layer is calculated as the mean of five evenly
distributed measurements using the calliper rule.

The concrete dust of each layer is collected in marked plastic bags to be analysed for chloride content. Each
bag shall be clearly marked with the sub-specimen reference, depth interval and date.

15
BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Table 1 — Recommended depth intervals (millimetres) of profile grinding for CEM I concrete

Water/cement ratio 0,30 0,35 0,40 0,50 0,60 0,70

Layer 1 0~1 0~1 0~1 0~1 0~1 0~1
Layer 2 1~2 1~2 1~3 1~3 1~3 1~5
Layer 3 2~3 2~3 3~5 3~5 3~6 5~10
Layer 4 3~4 3~5 5~7 5~8 6~10 10~15
Layer 5 4~6 5~7 7~10 8~12 10~15 15~20
Layer 6 6~8 7~9 10~13 12~16 15~20 20~25
Layer 7 8~10 9~12 13~16 16~20 20~25 25~30
Layer 8 10~12 12~16 16~20 20~25 25~30 30~35

Table 2 — Recommended depth intervals (millimetres) of profile grinding

for concrete containing ggbs, fly ash or silica fume
a
Water/cement ratio 0,30 0,35 0,40 0,50 0,60 0,70
Layer 1 0~1 0~1 0~1 0~1 0~1 0~1
Layer 2 1~2 1~2 1~2 1~3 1~3 1~3
Layer 3 2~3 2~3 2~3 3~5 3~5 3~6
Layer 4 3~4 3~4 3~5 5~7 5~8 6~10
Layer 5 4~5 4~6 5~7 7~10 8~12 10~15
Layer 6 5~6 6~8 7~9 10~13 12~16 15~20
Layer 7 6~8 8~10 9~12 13~16 16~20 20~25
Layer 8 8~10 10~12 12~16 16~20 20~25 25~30
a
Where the concrete contains a Type II addition, the w/c ratio is replaced with a w/(c + k.a)
ratio.

7.6 Chloride analysis

The acid-soluble chloride content of each ground sample shall be determined in accordance with EN 14629
and expressed as percentage by mass of concrete.

8 Regression procedure and expression of results

The chloride content of the first concrete layer, i.e. the surface layer, is discarded for the regression analysis.

The chloride content of the second concrete layer (j = 2), is the first data point to be used in the regression
analysis.

Determine the concrete layer where the measured chloride content first reaches a value between Ci and
Ci + 0,015 %, with Ci equal to the initial chloride content of the concrete as determined according to 7.4. The
first concrete layer which demonstrates a chloride content Ci < C < Ci + 0,015 % provides the last data point
(j = n) to be used in the regression analysis and it is called the ‘zero point’. If this point has not been found,
deeper layers shall be ground from the profile specimen until the zero point has been reached. Layers deeper
than the zero point are excluded from the regression analysis as is the surface layer.

In order to verify the suitability of the chosen mathematical model against the available dataset, i.e. the
2
measured chloride profile, the coefficient of determination (R ) shall be calculated.

16
 BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

The coefficient of determination shall be more than 0,950 to be confident that the measured chloride profile is
properly modelled by Formula (1) and confident in the output of the regression procedure expressed in terms
of Dnss and Cs.

NOTE 1 See E.4 for guidance as to where this limit on the coefficient of determination may not be applicable and
guidance on the situation where this requirement is not satisfied.

NOTE 2 To achieve the necessary number of data points, a twin specimen may have to be ground with more layers or
a new part of the original sample ground.

The calculated chloride content at the exposed concrete surface (Cs) and the non-steady state diffusion
coefficient (Dnss) shall be determined by fitting Formula 1 to the relevant data points by means of non-linear
least squares regression analysis, as illustrated in Figure 5, and where the surface layer (j = 1) of the
measured chloride profile is omitted.

  x 
C x = Ci + (C s − Ci )1 − erf   (1)
 2 Dnss t  
 

where

Cx is the chloride content measured at average depth x and exposure time t, % by mass of concrete;

Cs is the calculated chloride content at the exposed surface, % by mass of concrete;

Ci is the initial chloride content, % by mass of concrete;

x is the depth below the exposed surface to the mid-point of the ground layer, m;
2 -1
Dnss is the non-steady state chloride diffusion coefficient, m s ;

t is the exposure time, seconds.

erf is the error function defined in Formula 2, where

∫ exp(− u )du
2 2
erf z = (2)
p 0

Values for erf z are given in widely available software packages.

NOTE 3 It is not advised to use the values of Cs and Dnss to estimate chloride penetration for conditions other than
those used in the test.

NOTE 4 The results of this test may be expressed in different ways, e.g. as a penetration parameter or the depth at
which the critical chloride content is reached.

17
BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Key
Y chloride content, mass %
X depth, mm
1 the first point is always excluded from curve-fitting
2 this is the first point used in the regression analysis
3 the "zero-point"
4 points after "zero-point" are excluded from curve-fitting

Figure 5 — Illustration of regression analysis

Out of all possible combinations of Cs and Dnss, the least-squares regression line is the one that has the
2
smallest possible value for the sum of the squares of the residuals, expressed by S(Cm,j – Cr,j) , with Cm,j the
measured chloride content of concrete layer j and Cr,j the chloride content of layer j calculated according to
Formula (1) using the most suitable combination of Cs and Dnss.

For the execution of the regression analysis the solver option available in most commercial spreadsheet
j=n

programs provides a convenient and practical way to minimize ∑ (C

j=2
m,j − Cr,j )2 .

2
The coefficient of determination (R ) shall be calculated.
2
NOTE 5 The standard symbol for the coefficient of determination is R and that for the reproducibility of the test
procedure (R) have been adopted in this standard, but they are not related.

NOTE 6 Most regression analysis packages provide the coefficient of determination as a standard output.

If the coefficient of determination is not greater than 0,950, new specimens shall be manufactured and tested
as to achieve an acceptable confidence level.
2
NOTE 7 Annex F provides a number of chloride profiles and values of Cs, Dnss and R calculated by committee
members. These examples may be used to check that the software being used and method of calculation give the same
output as other experts.

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 BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

9 Test report

The test report shall include:

a) identification of the test specimens;

b) description/composition and density of the specimen including its age at the start of the test when known;

c) date at start of the test;

d) duration of the test;

e) chloride exposure solution if other than a 3 % NaCl solution;

f) method of exposure (by immersion, ponding or inversion);

g) mean temperature plus highest and lowest temperature of the chloride exposure solution;
-2
h) volume of chloride solution per exposed surface (ml cm );

i) initial and final chloride ion concentration of test solution;

j) the determined initial chloride ion concentration in % by mass of concrete;

k) graph of each chloride profile indicating points included in the analysis, the calculated profile and the
2 -1 2
calculated values of Cs (%), Dnss (m s ) and R ;

l) Where more than one specimen was tested, average value of the non-steady state chloride diffusion
coefficient, Dnss, and of the calculated chloride concentration at the exposed surface, Cs;

m) any deviation from the standard test method;

n) a declaration by the person technically responsible for the test that it was carried out in accordance with
EN 12390-11 except as noted in l).

10 Precision

The precision estimates are given in Table 3. These data relate to a single determination of the diffusion
coefficient and surface concentration.

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BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Table 3 — Precision data

Repeatability conditions [5] Reproducibility conditions [5]

Parameter Level
sr r sR R
2
Dnss (E-12) m /s 5,09 1,17 3,27 1,54 4,31
Cs m/m
0,45 0,20 0,23 0,20 0,24
(by concrete mass)
Precision expressed in terms of
CVr (%) r (%) CVR (%) R (%)
coefficient of variation
Dnss (E-12) ± 23 65 33 92
Cs % ± (by concrete mass) 13 37 19 54
NOTE These estimates are based on a precision exercise undertaken in 2011-2012 [6]. The results shown have
involved 12 laboratories using the same concrete samples (2 per test) made fulfilling EN 206 limiting values for concrete
composition with two types of cements and two w/c ratios (four variables). These data were obtained by averaging over
four concrete type mixes and three exposure type methods the values of Dnss and of Cs obtained by previously averaging
over the laboratories involved in each specific mix/exposure combination. There were insufficient data for two of the
exposure methods to determine the precision of each of the methods separately and to determine if there was any
significance difference between the methods (the data available indicate no significant difference). The values in the table
above apply to the three equivalent test methods described in this standard.

NOTE 1 These precision estimates are the reason why testing more than one specimen is recommended in Clause 4.

NOTE 2 Where the test result is the average of n tests, the precision of this test result is the value in Table 3 divided by
√n.

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EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Annex A
(informative)

Diffusion coefficients

Following Crank [7] the diffusion coefficient is defined (see Figure A.1) as the rate of transfer of the diffusing
substance across a unit area of a section divided by the space gradient of concentration at the section.

FR
( )
D m2 / s = −
∂c / ∂x
(A.1)

where FR the flow rate (flux) in mol m ·s and ∂c / ∂x the gradient of concentration with the concentration
-2
3
expressed in mol/m .

Figure A.1 — Unit section for defining chloride flow

This definition pays attention to the importance of the units of D and the coherence of them in the whole
expression. For concrete, chloride content is used instead of concentration, which is used for common
electrolytic solutions.

As some of the chloride ions may react with or get bound to the cement phases, it is necessary for the sake of
the testing to distinguish at least two kinds of diffusion coefficients:

— Steady state Diffusion Coefficient (Dss): this is where a constant flux of chloride ions is reached during the
3
time of testing. The concentration of chlorides is given in units of mol of chlorides per m of test solution.
Due the test conditions, the resulting calculated diffusion coefficient does not take into account the
potential of such a concrete to bind chloride ion.

— Non-steady state Diffusion Coefficient (Dnss): this is where the flow of chloride ions is not constant during
the time of testing. The concentration of chlorides is expressed as % by mass of cement or concrete, or in
-3
kg m of concrete. Due to the test conditions, the resulting calculated diffusion coefficient takes into
account the ability of the concrete to bind chlorides.

These two measures of diffusion resistance and not interchangeable and there is about an order of magnitude
difference between these values. Diffusion coefficients change, decreasing as the specimen gets older.

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EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Annex B
(informative)

Core test specimen

The age of the concrete in the structure from which the core specimens are to be obtained should not be less
than 28 maturity days, where one maturity day is the time to develop a maturity corresponding to curing under
water for one day at 20 °C. The age and any information on the curing of the element shall be recorded and
reported.

The core(s) shall be taken in accordance with EN 12504-1. Where a core is taken from an existing structure, it
is essential that the profile specimen is from a zone that has not been subject to external chloride ingress.

NOTE 1 If the purpose of the test is to be representative of durability performance of an existing structure it is important
that the concrete tested is taken from the cover zone, which is the concrete that covers the reinforcing steel. The outer
10 mm of a core (the cover) is known to have higher concentrations of cement paste that may influence the recorded Cs
and Dnss and it is often cut off and discarded and the test undertaken on the sawn surface 10 mm from the structure’s
surface. This also applies for cast specimens as shown in Figure B.1. It is essential to ensure that when testing the cover
of existing structures, the specimen does not already have a chloride gradient. Where this procedure is used, it is advised
to record the deviations from this test method.

NOTE 2 Profiles built up during the life of a structure may also be used to characterize the resistance of a concrete to
chloride ingress and the ageing factor for this concrete. Care is needed when interpreting such data as cements of the
same nominal type may not perform in an identical way.

Figure B.1 shows the relative positions of the as-cast surface, profile sub-specimen and initial chloride sub-
specimen for a core specimen when used to determine the diffusion coefficient of the cover zone of an
existing structure provided there is no existing chloride gradient.

Key
1 as-cast surface
2 discard outer 10 mm
3 for chloride profile
4 20 mm to establish initial chloride content
5 inner core

Figure B.1 — Specimen and sub-specimens from a core specimen

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 BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Annex C
(informative)

Typical equipment and procedure for vacuum saturation

C.1 Apparatus

Figure C.1 shows a typical set of equipment used to perform the vacuum saturation of concrete specimens.

Key
vacuum line 1 vacuum pump
water line 2 water trap
air line 3 valve
4 air connection
5 vacuum chamber
6 water reservoir
7 pressure gauge/manometer

Figure C.1 — Typical arrangement of equipment used for vacuum saturating concrete specimens

C.1.1 Water reservoir, bottom-draining container with sufficient capacity to cover all the specimens with
water.

C.1.2 Vacuum chamber, with an internal diameter of at least 250 mm fitted with three outlets to connect the
water reservoir, the vacuum pump and the atmosphere.

C.1.3 Pressure gauge/manometer, accuracy of 1 mbar.

C.1.4 Water trap, it should be used to protect the vacuum pump from water. If a water trap is not used, the
pump oil shall be changed after each operation.

C.1.5 Vacuum pump, capable of reducing the pressure to between 10 mbar to 50 mbar.

C.1.6 Three valves and fluid lines, to connect and control fluid flow.

C.2 Procedure

1) Place the profile specimens in the vacuum container and close the valves to the container;

23
BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

2) Open the vacuum line valve and turn on the vacuum pump to reduce the absolute pressure to 10 mbar to
50 mbar (1 kPa to 5 kPa), which should only take a few minutes, and maintain this absolute pressure for
3 h;

3) With the vacuum pump still running, open the water line valve for the time needed to fill the container with
distilled or demineralized water from the attached reservoir. All the specimens should be completely
immersed in water. During this operation ensure that air does not enter the vacuum pump through the
water line;

4) Maintain the vacuum for the further one hour;

5) Close the vacuum line valve and turn off the vacuum pump;

6) Open the vacuum line valve and allow air to re-enter the container.

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 BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Annex D
(normative)

Immersion method for large specimens

Large specimens are those that are sufficiently large for the zone from which the powder samples are ground
to be unaffected by two and three dimensional ingress of chloride ions when the whole specimen is immersed.
Where this technique is used, the ratio of the exposed area of the specimen to the volume of exposure
solution shall be as given in 5.2.5. An example of a suitable arrangement is shown in Figure D.1.

Where a large specimen has been used without sealing the non-test surfaces, the grinding shall be performed
within a boundary 50 mm inside specimen boundary to avoid edge effects.

Key
2
1 chloride solution not less than 12,5 ml per cm of exposed surface
2 profile grinding performed not less than 50 mm inside specimen boundary
3 surface unsealed

Figure D.1 — Example of a large immersed specimen

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BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Annex E
(informative)

Guidance on the test procedure

E.1 Guidance on suitable concretes types

Hydrophobic surface treatments such as silanes stop the conditions under which diffusion may take place, i.e.
they prevent the creation of an interlinked water-filled pore system. While the test may be used to determine
the chloride resistance of the base concrete, it cannot be used to determine the resistance of the combined
system.

Where the surface quality is being improved by the use of controlled permeability formwork, the test procedure
needs to be modified so that the chloride exposure solution is in contact with the surface that had the
controlled permeability formwork. Care is needed in the interpretation of the results from such concrete as
there will be a gradient in the resistance of concrete to chloride ions.

There is little experience with using this test procedure on fibre concretes and therefore it is not possible to
say whether this test is appropriate. It is not known if the chloride content of polymer fibres is self-correcting,
meaning the value measured in the initial chloride determination is valid for each layer in the profile zone.

E.2 Explanation of why water is used for saturation and curing

Vacuum saturation with saturated calcium hydroxide solution would lead to calcium hydroxide being taken into
the pore system where it may lead to a change in the pore structure and affect the chloride penetration and
lead to an over-estimate of the chloride diffusion.

If the specimens were to be cured in saturated calcium hydroxide solution, this could lead to them being
covered with residual lime particles and if these particles are not removed, they may carbonate if the
specimens are temporarily exposed to air, e.g. when preparing to seal some surfaces. This carbonate layer
may affect the rate of chloride penetration.

E.3 Guidance on the selection of the exposure solution

Where the specific exposure conditions are known, it is recommended that this solution is used in the test
procedure. It should be noted that all seawater is not the same and if the specific seawater is unavailable, its
analysis should be used to create artificial seawater. Different chloride exposure solutions with the same
chloride ion concentration, e.g. seawater and a pure sodium chloride solution, do not give the same rate of
ingress of chloride ions. For Highway structures, a solution of de-icing chemical, e.g. rocksalt, should be used.
Where there is not a specific exposure condition, the reference sodium chloride solution is recommended.

E.4 Curve-fitting to the error-function solution to Fick’s 2nd law

Curve-fitting is basically to find the desired parameters Cs and Dnss, which give the least sum of square
nd
differences between the measured experimental data and the error-function solution to Fick’s 2 law (the
principle of "least squares"). The following function expresses the sum of square differences:

F= ∑ ( yi − yi )2 (E.1)
i

where yi is the measured chloride content C(xi) at position xi (after subtraction of the initial chloride content Ci)
and yi is the error-function solution to Fick’s 2nd law, that is,

26
 BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

y i = C ( xi ) − C i (E.2)

and

  xi   xi 
y i = y 0 ⋅ 1 − erf   = y ⋅ erfc 
0
 (E.3)
  2 D t  2 D t 
  nss   nss 

where erf and erfc are the error-function and the error-function complement, respectively, and

y 0 = C s − Cini (E.4)

In the standard method, the chloride content in the first ground layer C(x1) shall not be included in the curve-
fitting. Therefore, the index j will be from 2 to n, the total number of the samples with the values C(xi) > Ci. To
make Formula (1) minimal, the following conditions are needed:

n   xi 
∑  y ⋅ erfc  2
i 
Dnss t  
∂F j= 2
 
=0 ⇒ y0 = 2
(E.5)
∂y 0 n  x 
∑ erfc 
j= 2 
i
2 D t


  nss 

and

 x
n    xi2  
∑  y
⋅ i
2 D t  i  ⋅ exp  − 
∂F j= 2
  nss   4Dnss t  
=0 ⇒ y0 = (E.6)
∂Dnss n 
xi   xi2   x 
∑ 

 ⋅ exp  −

j = 2  2 Dnss t 

4Dnss t 
⋅ erfc 
2 D t
i


   nss 

Therefore, the task is to select the best couple of values of y0 and Dnss to make the above Formulae (E.5) and
(E.6) equal. Afterwards the value Cs can be determined from Formula (E.4).

One may manually find the best couple of values y0 and Dnss in a MS Excel worksheet by making a matrix
comprising various values of y0 and Dnss and adjust these values to minimize the difference between
Formulae (E.5) and (E.6). This is a time-consuming approach. Another way is to use sophisticated
mathematical software, which may be costly. The better solution is to make your own computer program to do
this specific task.

The requirement to have a coefficient of determination ≥ 0,950 was based on examination of a large number
of profiles determined using this test procedure and judgment as to what are acceptable profiles. This
requirement may not be applicable to specimens taken from existing structures, as these specimens may
record the impact of a number of transport processes, not just diffusion.

Under standard test conditions a coefficient of determination ≥ 0,950 should be expected. If this is not
achieved, the reasons should be investigated and, ideally, the test should be repeated.

27
BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Annex F
(informative)

Examples for calibration of the calculation procedure

for regression analysis

F.1 Introduction

The following four examples are provided to check that the calculation procedure which has been selected for
the regression analysis provides consistent and sufficiently reliable output values for the non-steady state
diffusion coefficient, Dnss, and the chloride content of the exposed concrete surface, Cs.

According to 7.5, for regression analysis it is required that a measured chloride profile is covered by a
minimum of 6 relevant points. The regression analyses are performed on these measured chloride profiles
nd
using the error-function solution to Fick’s 2 law as expressed by Formula F.1:

  x 
C x = Ci + (C s − Ci )⋅ 1 − erf   (F.1)
 2 Dnss ⋅ t  
 

The initial chloride content, Ci, is determined according to 7.4. Consequently, Formula 1 includes 2 unknown
parameters, i.e. Cs and Dnss. The combination of Cs and Dnss is quantified by regression analysis in such a way
as to result in the best fit between measured and calculated chloride profile.

Each of the examples is presented through two tables and one or two graphs depending upon the software
being used. The first table contains the basic input, i.e. information on the depth intervals of the subsequent
concrete layers, x1 and x2, and the measured chloride content, Cm, for each layer, as well as information on
the determined initial chloride content, Ci, and the test duration, t. In the second table, the output of the
2
regression analysis is provided in terms of Cs, Dnss and the coefficient of determination, R .

The first graph shows both the measured and the fitted chloride profile; whereas in the example in F.3 the
second graph demonstrates that the ‘true’ Fmin has been achieved through a variation of Dnss and Cs in a small
interval around the optimum values. The best fit is obtained when the sum of squares is at its minimum value,
Fmin. The sum of squares for surface concentration is given by:

i=n 2
F= ∑ (Cf − Cm ) (F.2)
i=2

The x-axis is the ratio of the value (X) divided by its best fit value (Xf). In practice the second graph may be
used as a convenient check on the suitability of the calculation procedure that has been adopted. Even when
2
this software package is used, it is necessary to check that R ≥ 0,95.

When checking the intended software, the exact values given in the examples may not be achieved. If the
answers are close to these reference values, say within ± 2 %, the software may be regarded as giving the
same results.

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 BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

F.2 Chloride profile 1

Table F.1 — Input values for chloride profile 1

VALUES OF DEPTH AND CHLORIDE CONCENTRATION

Not taken
Experimental Accepted Calculated
into account
Layer
x
x (mm) %Cl- x (mm) %Cl- x (mm) %Cl- %Cl- (calc-exp)^2
(mm)
1 0,5 0,44 #N/A #N/A 0,5 0,44 #N/A #N/A 0
2 2 0,31 2 0,31 #N/A #N/A 2 0,315603344 3,13975E-05
3 4 0,23 4 0,23 #N/A #N/A 4 0,212672855 0,00030023
4 6 0,12 6 0,12 #N/A #N/A 6 0,131095315 0,000123106
5 8,5 0,05 8,5 0,05 #N/A #N/A 8,5 0,062677829 0,000160727
6 11,5 0,03 11,5 0,03 #N/A #N/A 11,5 0,021055494 8,00042E-05
7 14,5 0,03 14,5 0,03 #N/A #N/A 14,5 0,005601738 0,000595275
8 18 0,01 18 0,01 #N/A #N/A 18 0,000881821 8,31412E-05
NOTE Ci = 0,00 % by mass of concrete.
Layer 1 is not used in the calculation as required by Clause 8.

Key
Y %Cl
X mm
Accepted
Neglected
Calculated

Figure F.1 — Diagraph to Table F.1

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BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Table F.2 — Results for chloride profile 1

Cs 0,431 %
2
Dnss 2,19 E-12 m /s
2
R 0,9862
Number of layers 7

F.3 Chloride profile 2

Table F.3 — Input data for chloride profile 2

Test duration 90 d
Initial chloride ion content 0,012 % m/m concrete
Average chloride
Start of layer, mm, Finish of layer, Average depth of
ion content of
Layer from exposed mm, from layer, mm, from
layer, % m/m
surface exposed surface exposed surface
concrete
L01 0 1 0,5 1,161
L02 1 3 2,0 1,211
L03 3 5 4,0 0,986
L04 5 8 6,5 0,637
L05 8 9 8,5 0,294
L06 9 12 10,5 0,278
L07 12 16 14,0 0,187
L08 16 20 18,0 0,099
L09 20 25 22,5 0,021
NOTE Row L01 excluded from the calculation as required by Clause 8.

Table F.4 — Results regression analysis for profile 2

Cs 1,553483 [% of mass of concrete]

Ci 0,012 [% of mass of concrete]
2
Dnss 0,318423 [mm /d]
-12 2
Dnss 3,685454 [10 m /s]
Fmin 0,027992
2
R 0,97348

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 BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Key

Y %Cl
X mm
Accepted
Neglected
Calculated

Figure F.2 — Diagraph to Table F.3 and F.4

F.4 Chloride profile 3

Table F.5 — Input data for chloride profile 3

VALUES OF DEPTH AND CHLORIDE CONCENTRATION

Not taken
Experimental Accepted Calculated
into account
Layer
x
x (mm) %Cl- x (mm) %Cl- x (mm) %Cl- %Cl- (calc-exp)^2
(mm)
1 0,5 0,39 #N/A #N/A 0,5 0,39 #N/A #N/A 0
2 2 0,34 2 0,34 #N/A #N/A 2 0,359111696 0,000365257
3 4 0,31 4 0,31 #N/A #N/A 4 0,311857094 3,4488E-06
4 6 0,3 6 0,3 #N/A #N/A 6 0,2666559 0,001111829
5 8,5 0,2 8,5 0,2 #N/A #N/A 8,5 0,214336537 0,000205536
6 11,5 0,19 11,5 0,19 #N/A #N/A 11,5 0,159309504 0,000941907
7 14,5 0,1 14,5 0,1 #N/A #N/A 14,5 0,113856598 0,000192005
8 18 0,05 18 0,05 #N/A #N/A 18 0,0730912 0,000533204
NOTE Ci = 0,040 % by mass of concrete.
Layer 1 is excluded from the calculation as required by Clause 8.

31
BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Key

Y %Cl
X mm
Accepted
Neglected
Calculated

Figure F.3 — Diagraph to Table F.5

Table F.6 — Results regression analysis for profile 3

Cs 0,407 %
2
Dnss 1,16 E-11m R /s
2
R 0,954 9
Number of layers 7

32
 BS EN 12390-11:2015
EN 12390-11:2015 (E)

Bibliography

[1] CASTELLOTE M., ANDRADE C. Round-Robin Test on methods for determining chloride transport
parameters for concrete - RILEM Recommendation of TC-178-”Testing and modelling chloride
penetration in concrete”. Mater. Struct. 2006, 30 pp. 995–990

[2] CHLORTEST Testing Resistance of Concrete to Chloride Ingress - A proposal to CEN for
consideration an EN standard. Deliverable 22. April 2006

[3] Nt BUILD 443, Concrete, hardened, Accelerated chloride penetration. Nov 1996

[4] RILEM T.C. 178-TMC, Recommendation on methods for obtaining dust samples by means of grinding
concrete in order to determine the chloride concentration profile. Mater. Struct. 2013, 46 (3) pp. 337–
344

[5] ISO 5725-1, Accuracy (trueness and precision) of measurement methods and results - Part 1: General
principles and definitions

[6] Validation testing program of TC51/(CEN/TC104) /JWG12 on chloride penetration and carbonation

[7] CRANK J. The mathematics of diffusion. Clarendon, Oxford, Second Edition, 1975

[8] EN 12504-1, Testing concrete in structures - Part 1: Cored specimens - Taking, examining and testing
in compression

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