This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: E3134 − 17

Standard Specification for

Transportation Tunnel Structural Components and Passive
Fire Protection Systems1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3134; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

INTRODUCTION

Fire poses a serious threat to the structural stability of tunnels as shown by real fires in tunnels over
the last decade. The damage is a serious threat to life safety and results in costly repairs and lost
service time. The damage is mitigated with heat-resistant concrete and passive fire-resistive materials
and systems. The result is limited spalling of concrete, limited structural damage of the concrete via
cracks to the cold zone, and limited temperature increases of the reinforcing steel. Further, the
fire-resistive methods employed are also optionally evaluated against common environmental
exposures, which could adversely affect the performance or fire-resistance rating.

1. Scope applied to the anchor. This requirement results in a single

1.1 This specification is applicable to the fire resistance of
concrete tunnel linings, fire-resistive materials, and structural
tunnel members.
1.2 Concrete mix design, tunnel linings, and passive fire
protection methods are specific to each tunnel project. There-
fore results of the spalling test are only valid for the specific
materials and systems employed during each test, notwith-
standing maximum and minimum limitations.
1.3 Tunnels are potentially exposed to ground water, even
those passing through elevated terrain, such as mountains, road
salt, and maintenance surface washing. Consideration shall be
given to potential adverse effects that result, such as material
degradation due to these exposures.
1.4 Movement joints shall be considered and their impact on
the overall fire resistance shall be assessed by testing. Tests
shall be conducted as a system.
1.5 This specification does not address mechanical attach-
ment methods for equipment due to the vast variety of possible
methods and loads. However, consideration shall be given to
methods that appreciably affect the concrete temperature dur-
ing the heating conditions. Consideration shall be given to a
second test conducted with the attachment to evaluate the
effect. The attachment test shall include the largest diameter
anchor, the deepest installed anchor, and the largest load
1
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E05 on Fire
Standards and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E05.11 on Fire
Resistance.
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2017. Published March 2018. DOI: 10.1520/
E3134-17.
anchor being tested or multiple anchors being tested. If
multiple anchors are required to be tested, then each shall be
tested under its maximum load.
1.6 This specification requires testing of both horizontal and
vertical orientations. For fire-resistive materials, it is generally
accepted that the horizontal orientation represents the worst
case test scenario.
1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to inch-pound units that are provided for informa-
tion only and are not considered standard.
1.8 This standard is used to measure and describe the
response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and
flame under controlled conditions, but does not, by itself,
incorporate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk
assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under
actual fire conditions.
1.9 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safe-
guards for personnel and property shall be employed in
conducting these tests.
1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.11 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

1
 E3134 − 17
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:2
C109 Test Method for Compressive Strength of Hydraulic
Cement Mortars (Using 2-in. or [50-mm] Cube Speci-
mens)
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of
Building Materials
E119 Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction
and Materials
E176 Terminology of Fire Standards
E1966 Test Method for Fire-Resistive Joint Systems
G85 Practice for Modified Salt Spray (Fog) Testing
2.2 Other Standard:3
2008-Efectis-R0695 Fire testing procedure for concrete tun-
nel linings
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms found in this
specification, refer to Terminology E176.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 Different fire protection approaches are chosen in the
design and construction of tunnels. The approaches addressed
in this specification are limited to concrete mix design and
fire-resistive materials, and the potential impact of environ-
mental exposures (optional). A minimum of one fire test is
required for each assembly, configuration, and orientation. For
cases where the concrete mix design is intended to address the
fire load independent of fire-resistive materials, the Spalling
Test in accordance with 9.1 is applicable. For cases where
standard or general concrete design mix is intended and
protected by fire-resistive materials, the Fire-Resistive Material
Test is applicable. For cases where both the concrete design
mix and fire-resistive materials are combined to address the fire
load, both test criteria are applicable but can be accomplished
with one fire test for each assembly, configuration, and
orientation.
4.1.1 Surface Burning Test:
4.1.1.1 Flame Spread Index (FSI) and Smoke Developed
Index (SDI) in accordance with Test Method E84 are provided
for fire-resistive materials.
4.1.2 Environmental Tests (Optional):
4.1.2.1 Ground Water Test is a means to assess the effect of
water and moisture on concrete tunnel lining and fire-resistive
materials.
4.1.2.2 Road Salt Test assesses the effect of salt on concrete
tunnel lining and fire-resistive materials.
2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website.
3
Available from efectis nederland, P.O. Box 554, 2665 ZN Bleiswijk, Brand-
puntlaan Zuid 16, 2665 NZ Bleiswijk, The Netherlands, http://efectis.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/07/RWSProcedureFireProtectionforTunnels.pdf.
2
4.1.2.3 Tunnel Interior Surface Washing assesses the effects
of repeated washing on concrete tunnel lining and fire-resistive
materials.
4.1.2.4 Spalling Test—The Spalling Test is intended to
assess the spalling behavior of concrete mix designs specific to
tunnel project specification. The test assesses the reinforcing
steel by means of temperature and temperature of other critical
locations, such as post tension sleeves.
4.1.2.5 Fire-Resistive Material Test—The Fire-Resistive
Material Test is intended for materials whose purpose is to
protect the concrete by limiting the temperature at the interface
with the concrete and limiting reinforcing steel temperatures
within the concrete.
4.1.3 Fire-Resistive Joint Test—When movement joints are
used as part of the tunnel construction, they shall be assessed
for fire resistance and the ability to undergo movement without
reducing the fire rating.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 The test methods described in this specification are used
to determine the performance of tunnel construction elements
with respect to exposure to a standard time-temperature fire
test. The performance of the elements is dependent upon the
specific assembly of materials tested.
5.2 The test exposes a specimen to the selected fire
exposure, as described in this specification, controlled to
achieve specified temperatures throughout a specified time
period.
5.3 The test standard provides for the following:
5.3.1 Flame Spread—Comparative measurements of flame
spread and smoke developed in accordance with Test Method
E84.
5.3.2 Environmental Considerations—Potential effects on
the fire resistance from environmental conditions expected
within a transportation tunnel.
5.3.3 Spalling—Susceptibility of concrete design mixes to
spalling when exposed to the fire exposure, as described in this
specification.
5.3.4 Transmission of Heat—The ability to limit tempera-
tures at critical locations such as reinforcing steel and interface
of fire-resistive materials and concrete.
5.3.5 Fire-Resistive Joints—The ability to maintain fire
resistance continuity when the assembly requires a joint to
mitigate the effects of movement.
5.4 The test standard does not provide the following:
5.4.1 Evaluation of active fire protection methods or sys-
tems or other techniques not appropriate for evaluation by this
specification.
5.4.2 Information as to performance of specimens con-
structed with components or lengths other than those tested.
5.4.3 Evaluation of the degree by which the specimen
contributes to the fire hazard by generation of smoke, toxic
gases, or other products of combustion.
5.4.4 Measurement of the degree of control or limitation of
the passage of smoke or products of combustion through the
specimen.
 E3134 − 17
6. Flame Spread TABLE 2 Tunnel Fire Test Cool Down,
Time Interval Versus Temperature Decrease
6.1 Fire-resistive materials shall be tested in accordance
Furnace Temperature [°C (°F)]
with Test Method E84. The FSI shall be ≤25 and SDI ≤50. Added Time (min) from
Decrease from Time of
Time of Desired Rating Period
Desired Rating Period
7. Environmental Tests +10 –100 (–180)
+20 –200 (–360)
7.1 Environmental tests shall be conducted when the test +30 –300 (–540)
sponsor, design professional, or authority having jurisdiction +40 –400 (–720)
has a concern about the impact on fire resistance from the +50 –500 (–900)
+60 –600 (–1080)
presence of water, road salt, or repeated surface washing, or +70 –700 (–1260)
combinations thereof. The environmental tests are performed +80 –800 (–1440)
+90 –900 (–1620)
in advance of the fire testing to evaluate environmental impact. +100 –1000 (–1800)
Included are ground water test, road salt test, and tunnel
interior surface washing. For more details on the environmen-
tal tests, see Appendix X1. 8.2.3 For samples in the horizontal orientation, place the
junction of the thermocouple 305 mm (12.0 in.) away from the
8. Control of Fire Tests for Fire Resistive Materials exposed face of the sample.
8.1 Time-Temperature Curve: 8.2.4 For samples in the vertical orientation, place the
8.1.1 The fire exposure shall be controlled to conform to the junction of the thermocouple 152 mm (6.0 in.) away from the
modified Rijkswaterstaat (RWS) curve, taken from 2008- exposed face of the sample.
Efectis-R0695, presented in Tables 1 and 2, and as shown in 8.2.5 Read and record the temperature at intervals not
Fig. 1. exceeding 1 min.
8.1.2 As an option, an alternate time-temperature curve is 8.2.6 The accuracy of the furnace control shall be such that
presented in Annex A1. The alternative time-temperature curve the area under the temperature-time curve, obtained by aver-
presented incorporates the highest temperatures of the various aging the results from the furnace thermocouple readings, is
furnace fire exposures known at the time this document was within 15 % of the corresponding area under the standard
written. The intent is to provide a worst case test to allow for temperature-time curve presented in Tables 1 and 2, and as
multiple approvals from one test. shown in Fig. 1, for the time period between 5 and 10 min,
8.1.3 The samples shall undergo a cool down period by 10 % for the time period between 10 and 30 min and 5 % from
decreasing the furnace temperature by 10 °C (18 °F) per 30 min to the end of the test.
minute for 100 min, see Table 2. NOTE 1—The spalling of concrete will expose new, cold concrete
surfaces that will increase the need for energy input in order to maintain
8.2 Furnace Temperature: furnace control within tolerance.
8.2.1 The temperature fixed by the curve shall be the
8.3 Furnace Pressure:
average temperature obtained from the readings of thermo-
8.3.1 Measure the differential pressure between the exposed
couples symmetrically distributed within the test furnace to
and unexposed surfaces of the test assembly. The pressure shall
show the temperature near all parts of the assembly. Use a
be measured using a tee-shaped probe, or a tube probe, as
minimum of three thermocouples, with no fewer than five
shown in Fig. 2, manufactured from stainless steel, or other
thermocouples per 9.3 m2 (100 ft2) of exposed floor surface,
suitable material.
and no fewer than nine thermocouples per 9.3 m2 (100 ft2) of
8.3.2 Measure the pressure by means of a manometer or
exposed wall surface.
equivalent transducer. The manometer or transducer shall be
8.2.2 The furnace thermocouples shall be Type B, platinum-
capable of reading 2.5-Pa (0.01-in. H2O) increments with a
rhodium, 0.81 mm (0.032-in.) wire, exposed junction thermo-
measurement precision of 1.25 Pa (0.005 in. H2O).
couples. One conductor contains 30 % rhodium and the other
8.3.3 Horizontal Specimen—The required differential pres-
conductor contains 6 % rhodium.
sure plane shall be located within the furnace 305 mm (12 in.)
below the specimen.
8.3.4 Vertical Specimen—The required differential pressure
TABLE 1 Tunnel Fire Test Time-Temperature Curve for Control of plane shall be located within the furnace at the mid-height of
Fire Tests the specimen.
Time (min) Temperature [°C (°F)] 8.3.5 Following the first 5 min of the test, the pressure shall
0 20 (68) be controlled at below 50 Pa (0.2 in. H2O), then following the
3 891 (1635)
5 1141 (2085) first 10 min, the pressure shall be controlled at 20 6 4 Pa (0.08
10 1199 (2190) 6 0.016 in. H2O).
30 1299 (2370)
60 1349 (2460) NOTE 2—It is recognized that the dynamic nature of the furnace limits
90 1299 (2370) the ability of pressure control within the furnace, so there is a greater
$120 1199 (2190) tolerance for the first 10 min of startup. However, the goal is to achieve a
stable pressure of 20 Pa as quickly as possible.

3
 E3134 − 17
FIG. 1 Tunnel Fire Test Time-Temperature
9. Test Specimen for Fire Resistive Materials
9.1 Spalling Test:
9.1.1 The orientation of the specimen for the test is based on
the element it represents. Walls shall be tested vertically and
ceilings tested horizontally. If the specimen represents both
vertical and horizontal application, it shall be tested in both
orientations.
9.1.2 The concrete mix design, casting, and finishing shall
be to the sponsor’s specifications or subject to certification
listing. This includes aggregate type and size, additives, added
fibers, other fillers, cement type and quantity, water cement
ratio, etc., and application and bonding, fastening, attachment,
etc., of external fire-resistive materials.
9.1.3 Reinforcement type, size, spacing, location, minimum
concrete cover, etc., shall be to the sponsor’s specifications or
subject to certification listing.
9.1.4 The sample shall be large enough to avoid edge
effects. At a minimum, the horizontal sample size shall expose
16.75 m2 (180 ft2) with no area dimension less than 3050 mm
(10 ft). Vertical sample size shall expose 9.3 m2 (100 ft2) with
no area dimension less than 2750 mm (9 ft). Sample thickness
shall be the actual thickness in the intended applications but
limited to 610 mm (24 in.).
9.1.5 Preparation:
9.1.5.1 Concrete casting shall be the intended end-use
condition including type of formwork and orientation. Speci-
mens for ceiling locations shall be cast in a horizontal
4
orientation such that the bottom, formwork side, is exposed to
the furnace conditions. Wall specimens shall be cast vertically.
9.1.5.2 Thermocouples for internal measurement of steel
and the concrete temperature gradient shall be placed in the
specimen prior to casting of concrete. Care must be taken to
assure that the locations are not altered during casting.
9.1.5.3 There shall be a minimum of nine thermocouples
positioned within the slab, evenly distributed on the reinforcing
steel closest to the heating conditions. If the slab is protected
with fire-resistive material on the exposed face, a minimum of
nine additional thermocouples shall be positioned and evenly
distributed at the fire-resistive material and concrete interface,
to record the concrete surface temperature. Care must be taken
with the application of the thermocouples so casting of the
concrete or installation of the fire-resistive material does not
lead to inadequate contact of the thermocouple junction with
the concrete surface. If the system has joints, an additional five
thermocouples shall be located behind the joints. If post-
tensioning is used for compressive loading, one thermocouple
shall be located at the center of each post-tensioning sleeve
included with the concrete casting, positioned closest to the
heating condition. The thermocouples shall be type-K,
chromel-alumel and shall be firmly affixed so as to not move
during the casting. The thermocouples shall be capable of
being cast into the concrete without disturbing their operation.
Route the thermocouple leads parallel to the isothermal planes
 E3134 − 17

FIG. 2 Pressure Sensing Probe

for a distance of 150 mm (6 in.) from the measuring junction
to minimize error associated with cooling from the leads.
9.1.5.4 Compressive loading shall be accomplished with
post-tensioning or hydraulic jacks bearing against a reaction
frame. If post-tensioning is used, sleeves shall be installed prior
to casting the concrete. Exact positioning of the sleeves is
important and consideration shall be given to potential loss of
load due to thermal expansion of the steel. The compressive
load and eccentricity shall be equal to the design value as
provided by the tunnel lining design engineer.
9.1.6 Any externally applied fire-resistive material shall be
applied in the same manner as it is in the intended end-use
application. This includes surface preparation, attachments,
application orientation, thickness, and joints.
9.2 Fire-Resistive Material Test:
9.2.1 Fire-resistive material is not specific to a single
system; therefore, qualification for application over different
systems is necessary. A standardized concrete slab is used for
fire-resistive material qualification.

5
 E3134 − 17
9.2.2 The standardized concrete slab shall be cast with
normal weight, 27.6-N/mm2 (4000-psi) strength concrete. At a
minimum, the horizontal sample size shall expose 16.75 m2
(180 ft2) with no area dimension less than 3050 mm (10 ft).
Vertical sample size shall expose 9.3 m2 (100 ft2) with no area
dimension less than 2750 mm (9 ft), with a thickness of 6 in.
(150 mm).
9.2.3 The standardized concrete slab shall be reinforced
with 10M, nominal diameter 11.3 mm, (No. 4, nominal
diameter 1⁄2 in.) reinforcing steel, spaced 305 mm (12 in.) on
center in perpendicular directions. The center of the reinforcing
steel shall be located at the mid-depth between the exposed and
unexposed surfaces of the slab.
9.2.4 There shall be a minimum of nine thermocouples
positioned within the horizontal, or vertical, standardized
concrete slab, evenly distributed on the reinforcing steel closest
to the heating conditions and a minimum of nine evenly
distributed at the interface between the concrete and the
fire-resistive material. If the system has joints, an additional
five thermocouples shall be located behind the joints. The
thermocouples shall be type-K, chromel-alumel and shall be
firmly affixed so as to not move during the casting. The
thermocouples shall be capable of being cast into the concrete
without disturbing their operation. Route the thermocouple
leads parallel to the isothermal planes for a distance of 150 mm
(6 in.) from the measuring junction to minimize error associ-
ated with cooling from the leads.
9.2.5 The fire-resistive materials shall be attached or ad-
hered to the slab in the same manner as is in intended
applications.
9.2.6 Any surface preparation shall be as in intended appli-
cations.
9.2.7 Representative joints shall be included if the fire-
resistive material system includes joints.
9.2.8 When spray applied materials are used, the horizontal
or vertical structural assembly shall be positioned for applica-
tion in the same orientation as it would be in the tunnel. For
example, if the spray applied material is to be applied to the
ceiling, the test slab shall be suspended and the material spray
applied from underneath.
9.2.9 Fire-resistive materials shall not be tested until nomi-
nal moisture content equilibrium has been achieved. Samples
prepared in accordance with 9.2.10 shall be used for determin-
ing nominal moisture content equilibrium described in 9.2.11.
9.2.10 In addition to the fire test specimen, prepare three
305 × 305 mm (12 × 12 in.) samples of the material. For
materials other than boards, blankets, etc., that are cut to size,
use a 305 × 305 mm (12 × 12 in.) pan that prevents moisture
from leaving the sample from all but one face. The thickness
shall be the same thickness as applied to the slab.
9.2.11 The three prepared samples for determining moisture
equilibrium shall be kept with the fire test specimen so they are
exposed to the same environmental conditions. The material
shall be weighed at the time of preparation, and periodically
thereafter. The weights shall be recorded and percent weight
change calculated. Nominal moisture content equilibrium is
obtained when the weight of each of the three samples does not
change 65 % over a 5-day period.
6
9.2.12 Thickness and density of the fire-resistive materials
shall be measured and reported. Density shall be determined at
the nominal moisture content equilibrium condition.
9.3 Protection and Conditioning of the Test Specimen—The
test specimen shall be protected and conditioned in accordance
with requirements of Test Methods E119.
10. Conduct of Test
10.1 The furnace exposure shall be conducted for a length
of time designated by the sponsor. The samples shall undergo
a cool down period. During the cool down period, any applied
load shall be maintained and sample temperatures shall con-
tinue to be recorded. Ratings shall be assigned as per Test
Methods E119 based on the amount of furnace exposure, not
including the cool down period, even though the cool down
period is considered part of the test.
10.2 The orientation shall be as intended in applications.
Ceilings shall be tested in the horizontal position with the fire
conditions from the underneath. Walls shall be tested in the
vertical position.
10.3 The testing laboratory shall terminate the test when-
ever the laboratory determines conditions to be unsafe due to
severe spalling of concrete, heating of the post tensioning steel,
or near collapse.
10.4 The Spalling Test and the Fire-Resistive Material Test
are separate tests.
10.5 Loading:
10.5.1 The compressive level for the test shall be equal to
the compressive level of the exposed face on the intended
applications.
10.5.2 Eccentric loading is permitted so long as the eccen-
tricity is not greater than in intended applications and the
compressive level on the exposed face is at least as great as that
in intended applications.
10.5.3 The Fire-Resistive Material Test is conducted with-
out any applied load.
10.6 Conditions of Acceptance:
10.6.1 For both the Spalling Test and the Fire-Resistive
Material Test, the temperatures on the reinforcing steel, or at
25 mm (1 in.) from the heated surface of the concrete shall be
limited to 250 °C (482 °F) for any single measurement. This is
applicable for both the furnace exposure period and the cool
down period.
10.6.2 For the Fire-Resistive Material Test, the temperatures
on the concrete/fire-resistive material interface shall be limited
to 380 °C (716 °F) for any single measurement. This is
applicable for both the furnace exposure period and the cool
down period. Sacrificial concrete systems shall be designed
such that this criterion is met at the designed concrete cover
depth into the concrete.
NOTE 3—The temperature criteria related to the concrete and steel are
explained in the referenced literature, which suggest that concrete heated
above 300 to 400 °C will sustain permanent damage, both for strength
properties as well as durability, and with a view to limit the risk of
irreversible deformations (with exorbitant high repair costs) temperatures
in reinforcing steel should be limited to 250 °C. In the Netherlands, design
limits have been set therefore, 380 °C as the maximum concrete surface
 E3134 − 17
temperature and 250 °C at the reinforcing steel.
10.6.2.1 Spalling Test shall be limited to superficial damage.
For example, it is acceptable for the cement-rich layer of the
exposed concrete to have been removed as a result of the fire
exposure. Spalling shall not dislodge any aggregate. This is
applicable for both the furnace exposure period and the cool
down period.
11. Fire-Resistive Joints
11.1 Where expansion or construction joints are part of the
tunnel, they shall be tested using Test Method E1966.
11.2 The furnace time-temperature curve shall be as de-
scribed in 8.1 of this specification.
11.3 The joint shall be subjected to the maximum rated
dimension for cyclic movement at the minimum rated depth of
joint prior to the fire test.
11.4 The test is conducted for the desired rating duration.
11.5 The cool down period is not applicable for fire-resistive
joints.
12. Overall Conditions of Acceptance
12.1 Surface burning characteristics in accordance with Test
Method E84: FSI ≤ 25 and SDI ≤ 50
12.2 Environmental Tests—The test specimen shall comply
with the requested environmental tests in accordance with 7.1.
12.3 Spalling—Damage following the test shall be limited
to superficial damage in accordance with 10.6.1 and 10.6.2.1.
12.4 Transmission of Heat:
12.4.1 The temperatures on the reinforcing steel, or at 25
mm (1 in.) from the heated surface of the concrete shall be
limited to 250 °C (482 °F) for any single measurement. This is
applicable for both the furnace exposure period and the cool
down period.
12.4.2 The temperatures on the concrete/fire resistive mate-
rial interface shall be limited to 380 °C (716 °F) for any single
measurement. This is applicable for both the furnace exposure
period and the cool down period.
12.4.3 Fire Resistive Joints—The joints shall comply with
the desired fire resistance rating after testing to Test Method
E1966, in accordance with 11.
7
13. Report
13.1 At a minimum, the report shall contain the following
information:
13.1.1 Name of tunnel project where applicable.
13.1.2 List of all suppliers of test materials.
13.1.3 Trade names of all materials.
13.1.4 Manufacturing dates of all materials.
13.1.5 Material identification.
13.1.6 Material geometrical properties to include, thickness,
diameter, density, etc.
13.1.7 Material mechanical properties to include, concrete
compressive strength, steel grade, etc.
13.1.8 Specifications of concrete mix or indication of pro-
prietary certification program.
13.1.9 Mass ratio of mixture or indication of proprietary
certification program.
13.1.10 Date concrete was cast.
13.1.11 Detailed time line for the concrete that includes
removing the forms, application of fire protective materials,
accelerated drying, etc.
13.1.12 Details of any accelerated drying.
13.1.13 Moisture content of concrete and fire protection
material prior to test.
13.1.14 Full construction details of test assemblies.
13.1.15 Dates of tests.
13.1.16 Identify if the alternative time-temperature curve is
used.
13.1.17 Observations during the test.
13.1.18 Measured spalling depths.
13.1.19 Recorded data in graphical and tabular form.
13.1.20 Results obtained from Surface Burning Test, Envi-
ronmental Tests, Spalling Test, Fire-Resistive Material Test,
Fire-Resistive Joint Test.
14. Precision and Bias
14.1 No comprehensive test program has been conducted to
develop data on which to derive statistical measures of
repeatability (within-laboratory variability) and reproducibility
(among-laboratory variability). The limited data indicate that
there is a degree of repeatability and reproducibility for some
types of assemblies. Results depend on factors, such as the type
of assembly and materials being tested, the characteristics of
the furnace, the nature of the boundary conditions, and details
of workmanship during assembly.
 E3134 − 17
ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. ALTERNATIVE TIME-TEMPERATURE CURVE

A1.1 General TABLE A1.2 Tunnel Fire Test Cool Down,

Time Interval Versus Temperature Decrease
A1.1.1 At the sponsor’s option, the alternative furnace
Furnace Temperature [°C (°F)]
time-temperature curve, presented in Tables A1.1 and A1.2, Added Time (min) from
Decrease from Time of
Time of Desired Rating Period
and as shown in Fig. A1.1, shall be used. Desired Rating Period
+10 –100 (–180)
NOTE A1.1—The alternative furnace time-temperature curve is a +20 –200 (–360)
combination of the worst case conditions, being the highest temperature +30 –300 (–540)
+40 –400 (–720)
+50 –500 (–900)
TABLE A1.1 Alternative Tunnel Fire Test Time-Temperature Curve +60 –600 (–1080)
for Control of Fire Tests +70 –700 (–1260)
+80 –800 (–1440)
Time (min) Temperature [°C (°F)] +90 –900 (–1620)
0 20 (68) +100 –1000 (–1800)
3 1047(1917)
5 1200 (2192)
10 1222 (2232)
30 1300 (2372) versus time points combined from various curves used in other countries.
60 1350 (2462) Use of this alternate exposure condition provides a single exposure that
90 1300 (2372) meets multiple exposure requirements. This only addresses the furnace
$120 1300 (2372) time-temperature curve and is not intended to address other requirements,
such as instrumentation, loading, or criteria.

8
 E3134 − 17

FIG. A1.1 Tunnel Fire Test Time-Temperature—Alternative

A2. ENVIRONMENTAL TESTS

A2.1 Introduction A2.2 Ground Water Test

A2.1.1 At the sponsor’s option, the following environmen- A2.2.1 Test Sample:
tal tests are performed on the fire test materials in advance of A2.2.1.1 A minimum 305- × 305- × 51-mm (12- × 12- ×
the fire testing. The purpose is to evaluate environmental
2-in.) sample of the concrete, or other proprietary structural
impact to the structural elements (that is, concrete, reinforcing
material, with one reinforcing carbon steel No. 4 bar traversing
bar materials) and non-structural elements (that is, fire-resistive
the center of the sample, as well as any fire-resistive materials
materials) whereby an environmental condition will adversely
affect the structural elements or the fire-resistive materials, or intended to accompany the structural material is required.
both, before a fire takes place.

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 E3134 − 17
A2.2.2 Conduct of Test:
A2.2.2.1 The sample shall be placed under a 1219-mm
(48-in.) column of tap water with 6 % concentration of salt per
Practice G85, at 10 to 45 °C (50 to 115 °F), for one year. The
material, thickness, or any protective barrier, or combinations
thereof, surrounding the reinforcing steel shall be as intended
for the end use.
A2.2.2.2 The sample and water column test rig shall be left
undisturbed for the test duration or until failure is reached.
A2.2.2.3 The water levels and checks of the underside for
signs of white or red deposits shall occur on minimum intervals
of 96 h (4 days).
A2.2.3 Conditions of Acceptance:
A2.2.3.1 Failure occurs when white deposits from dissolved
cement stone or red deposits from reinforcing steel rust, or
both, appear on the bottom side. These deposits on the
underside of the sample shall be documented in writing as well
as by photograph and form part of the test report.
A2.2.3.2 Compression strength tests of samples cast from
the same batch and at the same time as the test sample shall be
performed in accordance with Test Method C109 on minimum
three unexposed cubes, as well as minimum three cubes cut
from the exposed test sample. The average compression
strength of the three exposed cubes shall not be less than 95 %
of the average of compression strengths of the three unexposed
cubes.
A2.3 Road Salt Test
A2.3.1 Test Sample:
A2.3.1.1 A minimum 305- × 305- × 51-mm (12- × 12- ×
2-in.) sample of the concrete, or other proprietary structural
material, with one reinforcing carbon steel No. 4 bar traversing
the center of the sample, as well as any fire-resistive materials
intended to accompany the structural material is required.
A2.3.2 Conduct of Test—Exposures shall be chosen by the
sponsor from available options stated in Practice G85. The test
procedure in Practice G85 shall be modified such that the
exposure chamber shall include the test sample as one wall or
a portion of the test chamber wall, suitably gasketed such that
only the sample surface that is meant to be exposed in tunnels
is, in fact, directly exposed to the chosen exposure conditions
from Practice G85.
A2.3.3 Conditions of Acceptance:
A2.3.3.1 At the end of the exposure period, the test sample
shall not be visibly deteriorated, including any delaminating of
materials. Any deterioration or delaminating shall be docu-
mented in writing as well as by photograph and form part of the
test report.
A2.3.3.2 Compression strength tests of samples cast from
the same batch and at the same time as the test sample shall be
10
performed in accordance with Test Method C109 on minimum
three unexposed cubes as well as minimum three cubes cut
from the exposed test sample. The average compression
strength of the three exposed cubes shall not be less than 95 %
of the average of compression strengths of the three unexposed
cubes.
A2.4 Tunnel Interior Surface Washing
A2.4.1 The submitter shall indicate whether or not a pro-
tective barrier or paint is required to safeguard the structural
elements or any exposed fire-resistive materials’ membrane(s),
or both. In the event that a protective membrane is mandated
by the sponsor, the type and application wet film and dry film
thickness(es) or applied sheet material(s), or both, shall be
designated by the sponsor and form part of the report.
A2.4.2 Test Sample—The test specimen size is dependent on
the method or equipment used, or both, but a minimum 305- ×
305- × 51-mm (12- × 12- × 2-in.) sample is required. The
sample shall be mounted, as necessary, such that only the
surface that is intended to be exposed in the tunnel application
will be washed.
A2.4.3 Conduct of Test:
A2.4.3.1 The sponsor shall designate the method, intensity,
and duration of the washing method.
A2.4.3.2 Prior to each washing cycle, 1.0 kg (2.2 lb)/0.37
m2 (4.0 ft2) of standard play sand shall be deposited and evenly
spread on the surface of the samples.
A2.4.3.3 The sample surface shall be cleaned as per the
method indicated by the sponsor.
A2.4.3.4 The sand deposit and cleaning cycles shall be
completed for 100 cycles with no more than 96 h (4 days)
between cycles. Sand removed via washing shall be re-used
and supplemented with fresh sand, as needed, to ensure the
deposit rate indicated above. The sand to be deposited will gain
the weight or the washing water and detergents but the weight
difference that cleaning fluids make up shall not be considered,
provided that recovered sand is placed for a minimum of 5 min
onto a suitable sieve prior to weighing the amount of recovered
plus added new sand for each cleaning cycle.
A2.4.4 Conditions of Acceptance:
A2.4.4.1 At the end of the washing exposure cycles,
samples shall not be visibly deteriorated or otherwise damaged.
A2.4.4.2 Cleaning, weighing, and re-cleaning shall be docu-
mented in writing and photographs in the report. The report, as
well as any certification listings resulting from testing to this
procedure, shall include the washing method to be employed,
including but not limited to, water pressure, application equip-
ment and method, if the washing water was heated and to what
temperature, and details of any detergents used.
 E3134 − 17
APPENDIX
(Nonmandatory Information)
X1. COMMENTARY ON ENVIRONMENTAL TESTS
X1.1 Introduction
X1.1.1 Environmental tests shall be conducted at the spon-
sor’s option. The environmental tests are performed on the fire
test materials in advance of the fire testing. The purpose is to
evaluate environmental impact to the structural elements (that
is, concrete, reinforcing bar materials) and non-structural
elements (that is, fire-resistive materials) whereby an environ-
mental condition will adversely affect the structural elements
or the fire-resistive materials, or both, before a fire takes place.
X1.2 Ground Water Test
X1.2.1 Traffic tunnels traversing underground are subject to
ground water and water run-off, which can access the tunnel.
When freezing conditions exist during the winter, ice will form
on the ceiling creating a hazard to traffic when it falls away.
Also, depending on the makeup of the water, in the event
chlorides or any other contaminants to concrete are present,
secondary efflorescence will occur, which becomes evident in
the formation of stalactites formed when cement stone is
leached from concrete or cementitious fire-resistive materials.
The contaminants and subsequent leaching weakens the overall
structure.
X1.3 Road Salt Test
X1.3.1 Road salt is a contaminant to cement and thus will
affect the stability and integrity of the cement, which in some
BIBLIOGRAPHY
(1) Annerel, E., “Assessment of the residual strength of concrete
structures after fire exposure,” Ghent, 2010.
(2) Brekelmans, Jan, BSc, and van den Bosch, René, BSc, “Summary of
Large Scale Fire Tests in the Runehamar Tunnel in Norway,”
Conducted in Association with the UPTUN Research Program,
September 2003.
(3) Breunese, A. J., Tensile properties of concrete during fire, Delft
University of Technology, 2001.
(4) Design Fires in Road Tunnels, A Synthesis of Highway Practice,
National Cooperative Highway Research Program; Transportation
Research Board; National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and
Medicine, 2011, http://www.nap.edu/read/14562/.
(5) EUREKA PROJECT 499 FIRETUN, http://
www.eurekanetwork.org.
11
cases is the active ingredient both in the structural element
(concrete) and in the fire-resistive materials.
X1.4 Tunnel Interior Surface Washing
X1.4.1 Some tunnel operators use lighting inside traffic
tunnels and depend upon light reflection of the surfaces on the
inside of the tunnel for improved illumination, for road safety
and camera use. Normal tunnel use deposits dirt and soot on
those surfaces, which impacts light reflection and thus road
safety. Therefore, some tunnel operators routinely wash the
inside surfaces of their tunnels. In that case, the inside exposed
surfaces must either be capable of withstanding the washing or
be periodically replaced or repaired and, possibly, repainted. If
the interior surface of the tunnel is a qualified structural
component, such as concrete, there is a solid surface for paint
to bond to. If the paint deteriorates or delaminates over time,
the tunnel operator shall remove and replace the paint without
concern regarding the integrity of the substrate. In the case of
softer fire-resistive materials remaining on the inside exposed
surfaces, cohesive failure occurs from excessive or repeated
pressure washing whereby the pressurized water penetrates and
dislodges the paint from the fire-resistive materials thus dam-
aging the fire-resistive materials or environmental exposure
protection provided by the paint.
(6) Ingason, I., Zhen Li, Y., Lönnermark, A., Tunnel Fire Dynamics,
Springer Science+Business Media, New York, NY, 2015.
(7) Joseph, A., “Residual Compressive Strength of Normal and High
Strength Concrete at Elevated Temperatures, International Journal
of Engineering Research & Technology (IJERT),” June 2013.
(8) Khoury, G. A., “Compressive strength of concrete at high tempera-
tures: A reassessment, Magazine Concrete Research,” 1992.
(9) Phan, L., “Spalling and mechanical properties of high strength
concrete at high temperature,” CONSEC, 2007.
(10) Schlüter, A., “Passive Fire Protection for Tunnels: Guidelines,
Parameters, Reality and Suitable Measures, Tunnel” 7, 2004.
(11) Tan, G. L., “The transport of dangerous cargo through tunnels –
practical application in road tunnels in the Netherlands,” KIVI, 1984.
 E3134 − 17
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