ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

1 NOTES: This version of Chapter 22 includes the following:

2 1. Approved version of 11/07/28.
3 2. Changes approved for ACI 318-11.
4 3. Technical changes approved under CA026.
5 4. Editorial changes approved under CA114.
6 5. Commentary as approved on 318 LB12-03.
7
8
9 CHAPTER 2 (partial) — NOTATION AND TERMINOLOGY
10
11 2.2—Notation
12
13 w/cm = water-cementitious materials ratio.
14
15 f’cr = required average compressive strength of concrete used as the basis for selection
16 of concrete proportions, psi, Chapter 5
17
18 2.3—Terminology
19
20 water-cementitious materials ratio — the ratio of the mass of water, excluding that absorbed
21 by the aggregate, to the mass of cementitious materials in a mixture, stated as a decimal.
22
23 CHAPTER 3 (partial) – REFERENCED STANDARDS
24
25 3.3 – American Concrete Institute (ACI)
26
27 3.3.x -- Article 4.2.3 of “Specifications for Structural Concrete (ACI 301-10)” is declared to be part
28 of this Code as if fully set forth herein, for the purposes cited in 22.4.1.2. <~>
29
30 R3.3.x -- Article 4.2.3 of ACI 301-10 is referenced for the method of mixture proportioning. <~>
31
32 CHAPTER 22 — REQUIREMENTS FOR CONCRETE AND
33 GROUT
34
35 22.1 — Scope
36
37 22.1.1 — The provisions of this Chapter shall apply to materials and proportioning for concrete,
38 materials and proportioning for grout for bonded tendons, and acceptance of concrete. <~>

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

39
40 22.2 — General
41
42 22.2.1—The licensed design professional shall include in construction documents the applicable
43 requirements for concrete and grout for bonded tendons. <~>
44
45 22.2.2—The provisions of this Chapter shall apply to acceptance testing of concrete.
46
47 22.3 — Materials for concrete
48
49 22.3.1 — Cementitious materials
50
51 22.3.1.1 — Cementitious materials shall conform to the specifications in Table 22.3.1.1. <3.2.1>
52
53 Table 22.3.1.1 — Specifications for cementitious materials
Cementitious material Specification

Portland cement ASTM C150

Blended hydraulic cements ASTM C595, excluding Type IS (≥70)*

Expansive hydraulic cement ASTM C845

Hydraulic cement ASTM C1157

Fly ash and natural pozzolan ASTM C618

Slag cement ASTM C989

Silica fume ASTM C1240

*
Type IS (≥70) is not intended as principal cementing constituent of structural concrete.

54
55 R22.3.1.1— Type IS (≥70) is a blended cement under ASTM C595 that contains slag as an interground
56 component, or slag cement as a blended component, in a quantity equal to or exceeding 70 percent by
57 mass. <R3.2.1>
58
59 22.3.1.2 — All cementitious materials specified in 22.3.1 and the combinations of these
60 materials shall be included in calculating the w/cm of the concrete mixture. <4.1.1>
61
62 22.3.2 — Aggregates
63
64 22.3.2.1 —Aggregates shall conform to the following specifications: <3.3.1>
65
66 (a) Normalweight aggregate: ASTM C33
67
68 (b) Lightweight aggregate: ASTM C330
69

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

70 22.3.2.2—Aggregates not meeting the specifications in 22.3.2.1 are permitted if they have been
71 shown by test or actual service to produce concrete of adequate strength and durability and are
72 approved by the building official. <3.3.1>
73
74 R22.3.2.2 -- Aggregates conforming to ASTM specifications are not always economically
75 available and, in some instances, noncomplying materials may have a documented history of
76 satisfactory performance under similar exposure. Such nonconforming materials are permitted if
77 acceptable evidence of satisfactory performance is provided. If possible, aggregates conforming to the
78 designated specifications should be used. <R3.3.1>
79
80 22.3.2.3 — Nominal maximum size of coarse aggregate shall not exceed the least of (a), (b),
81 and (c):
82
83 (a) 1/5 the narrowest dimension between sides of forms;
84
85 (b) 1/3 the depth of slabs;
86
87 (c) 3/4 the minimum clear spacing between individual reinforcing bars or wires, bundles
88 of bars, individual tendons, bundled tendons, or ducts.
89
90 These limitations shall not apply if, in the judgment of the licensed design professional,
91 workability and methods of consolidation are such that concrete can be placed without
92 honeycombs or voids. <3.3.2>
93
94 R22.3.2.3 — The size limitations on aggregates are provided to facilitate placement of concrete around
95 the reinforcement without honeycombing due to blockage by closely-spaced reinforcement. <R3.3.2.>
96
97 22.3.3 — Water
98
99 22.3.3.1 — Mixing water shall conform to ASTM C1602. <3.4.1>
100
101 R22.3.3.1 — Almost any natural water that is drinkable (potable) and has no pronounced taste or odor is
102 satisfactory as mixing water for making concrete. Excessive impurities in mixing water may affect setting
103 time, concrete strength, and volume stability (length change), and may also cause efflorescence or
104 corrosion of reinforcement. < R 3.4.1>

105 Salts or other deleterious substances contributed from the aggregate or admixtures add to those that might
106 be contained in the mixing water. These additional amounts are to be considered in establishing the total
107 impurities that may be present in the concrete. < R 3.4.1>

108 ASTM C1602 allows the use of potable water without testing and includes methods for qualifying
109 nonpotable sources of water, such as from concrete production operations, with consideration of effects
110 on setting time and strength. Testing frequencies are established to ensure continued monitoring of water
111 quality. < R 3.4.1>

112 ASTM C1602 includes optional limits for chlorides, sulfates, alkalis, and solids in mixing water that can
113 be invoked if appropriate. < R 3.4.1>
114

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

115 22.3.3.2 — Mixing water, including that portion of mixing water contributed in the form of free
116 moisture on aggregates, for prestressed concrete, for concrete that will contain aluminum
117 embedments, or for concrete cast against stay-in-place galvanized steel forms shall not contain
118 deleterious amounts of chloride ion. <3.4.2>
119
120 22.3.4 — Admixtures
121
122 22.3.4.1 — Admixtures shall conform to the following specifications: <3.6.1> <3.6.2>
123
124 (a) For water reduction and setting time modification: ASTM C494;
125
126 (b) For producing flowing concrete: ASTM C1017;
127
128 (c) For air entrainment: ASTM C260.
129
130 22.3.4.2 — Admixtures that do not conform to the specifications listed in 22.3.4.1 shall be
131 subject to prior approval by the licensed design professional. <3.6.3>
132
133 22.3.4.3 — Calcium chloride or admixtures containing chloride from sources other than
134 impurities in admixture ingredients shall not be used in prestressed concrete, in concrete
135 containing embedded aluminum, or in concrete cast against stay-in-place galvanized steel
136 forms. <3.6.4>
137
138 R22.3.4.3— Calcium chloride is prohibited from use in prestressed concrete because corrosion of
139 prestressing steel is generally of greater concern than corrosion of nonprestressed reinforcement (ACI
140 222R).22.1 because of the possibility of lLocal reduction in the cross section and failure of the prestressing
141 steel may result in fracture of the steel (ACI 222R)22.3. The presence of chloride ions may cause corrosion
142 of embedded aluminum (e.g., conduit), especially if the aluminum is in contact with embedded steel and
143 the concrete is in a humid environment. Protection requirements for embedded aluminum are given in
144 23.6. Corrosion of galvanized steel sheet and galvanized steel stay-in-place forms may occur, especially
145 in humid environments or where drying is inhibited by the thickness of the concrete or coatings or
146 impermeable coverings. Specific limits on chloride ion concentration in concrete are given in 5.3.
147 <R3.6.4>
148
149 22.3.4.4 — Admixtures used in concrete containing expansive cements conforming to ASTM
150 C845 shall be compatible with the cement and produce no deleterious effects. <3.6.5>
151
152 R22.3.4.4 — In some cases, the use of admixtures in concrete containing ASTM C845 expansive cements
153 has resulted in reduced levels of expansion or increased shrinkage values. See ACI 223.22.2 <R3.6.5>
154
155 22.3.5 — Steel fiber reinforcement
156
157 22.3.5.1—Steel fiber reinforcement shall be deformed and conform to ASTM A820. Steel fibers
158 shall have a length-to-diameter ratio not smaller than 50 and not greater than 100. <3.5.8>
159
160 R22.3.5.1 — Deformations in steel fibers enhance mechanical anchorage with the concrete. The lower
161 and upper limits for the fiber length-to-diameter ratio are based on available test data.22.3 <R3.5.8>
162
163

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

164 22.4 — Proportioning of concrete mixtures

165
166 R22.4 – Proportioning of concrete mixtures
167
168 The 2014 edition of the Code does not include the statistical requirements for proportioning concrete that
169 were in previous editions. The Committee considers that this information is inappropriate in the Code
170 because it is not a responsibility of the licensed design professional to proportion concrete mixtures.
171 Further, this information is available in other ACI documents, such as ACI 301 and ACI 214R22.4.
172 Finally, the quality control procedures of some concrete producers allow meeting the acceptance criteria
173 of the Code without following the exact process included in previous editions of the Code. <~>
174
175 22.4.1 — Selection of concrete proportions
176
177 22.4.1.1 —Concrete mixture proportions shall be established so that the concrete
178 satisfies (a) through (c): <5.2.1>
179
180 (a) Can be placed readily without segregation into forms and around reinforcement
181 under placement conditions to be used;
182 (b) Meets requirements for assigned exposure classes of Chapter 5;
183 (c) Conforms to strength test requirements of 22.5.
184
185 R22.4.1 – Selection of concrete proportions
186
187 R22.4.1.1 — This section provides requirements for developing mixture proportions. The concrete has to
188 be workable and it has to meet the durability and strength requirements of the Code. The term "without
189 segregation" is intended to provide for a cohesive mixture in which aggregates remain well distributed
190 while the concrete is in its fresh state. It is recognized that some segregation in the form of bleeding will
191 occur. The required workability will depend on reinforcement congestion, member geometry, and the
192 placement and consolidation methods to be used. Construction requirements of the contractor should be
193 considered in establishing required workability of the concrete. <~>
194
195 The Code does not include provisions for especially severe exposures, such as chemical contact, high
196 temperatures, temporary freezing and thawing conditions during the construction period, abrasive
197 conditions, alkali-aggregate reactions, or other unique durability considerations pertinent to the structure.
198 The Code also does not address aesthetic considerations such as surface finishes. If applicable, these
199 items should be covered specifically in the construction documents. <R5.2.1>
200
201 22.4.1.2 -- Concrete mixture proportions shall be established in accordance with Article
202 4.2.3 of ACI 301 or by an alternative method acceptable to the licensed design
203 professional. Alternative methods shall have a probability of satisfying the requirements
204 of 22.5.3.2 that meets or exceeds the probability associated with the method in Article
205 4.2.3 of ACI 301.
206
207 R22.4.1.2 – Article 4.2.3 of ACI 301 contains the statistical procedures for selecting the required average
208 strength that were included previously in the Code. Alternatively, the concrete producer to is permitted to

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

209 provide evidence acceptable to the licensed design professional that the concrete can be proportioned by
210 an alternative another method to meet the project requirements and the acceptance criteria of 22.5. The
211 Code presumes that the probability of not meeting the acceptance criteria in 22.5.3.2 is not more than 1 in
212 100. Following the method of proportioning in ACI 301 will maintain this level of risk. A key factor in
213 evaluating any proposed alternative proportioning method would be its ability to preserve this presumed
214 level of risk. Refer to ACI 214R22.4 for additional information. <Mostly new and R5.3.2.1>
215
216 22.4.1.3 —Concrete materials used in the Work shall correspond to those used to
217 develop concrete mixture proportions. <3.2.2>
218
219 22.4.1.4 — If different concrete mixtures are to be used for different portions of
220 proposed Work, each mixture shall be comply with 22.4.1.1. <5.2.2>
221
222 R22.4.1.4—If more than one concrete mixture is used for the project, each mixture is required to satisfy
223 Code requirements. A change in concrete constituents, such as sources or types of cementitious materials,
224 aggregates, or admixtures, is considered a different mixture. A minor change in mixture proportions
225 made in response to field conditions is not considered a new mixture. <~>
226
227
228 22.4.2 – Documentation of concrete mixture characteristics

229 22.4.2.1 – Documentation of concrete mixture characteristics shall be reviewed by the

230 licensed design professional before the mixture is used and before making changes to
231 mixtures already in use. Evidence of the ability of the proposed mixture to comply with
232 the requirements of 22.4.1.1 shall be included in the documentation. The evidence shall
233 be based on field test records or laboratory trial batches. Field or laboratory data shall
234 be based on materials intended to be used in the proposed Work. Field test records
235 shall represent conditions similar to those anticipated during the proposed Work. <~>
236

237 R22.4.2.1 – Review of the proposed concrete mixture is necessary to ensure that it is appropriate for the
238 project and meets all of the requirements as established by the licensed design professional for strength
239 and durability. The licensed design professional typically reviews the documentation on a proposed
240 concrete mixture to evaluate the likelihood that the concrete will meet the acceptance requirements of
241 22.5 and that acceptable materials are used. The statistical principles discussed in ACI 214R22.4 can be
242 useful in evaluating the likelihood that a proposed mixture will meet the requirements of 22.5. <~>

243 22.4.2.2 – If field or laboratory data are not available, and f’c is not greater than 5,000
244 psi, concrete proportions shall be based on other experience or information, if approved
245 by the licensed design professional. If f’c exceeds 5,000 psi, test data documenting the
246 characteristics of the proposed mixtures are required. <based on 5.4.1>

247 R22.4.2.2— If f'c is not greater than 5000 psi and test data are not available, concrete mixture proportions
248 should be established to produce a sufficiently high average strength such that the likelihood that the
249 concrete would not meet the strength acceptance criteria would be acceptably low. Guidance on an
250 appropriate average strength is provided in ACI 214R.22.4 The purpose of this provision is to allow work to
251 continue when there is an unexpected interruption in concrete supply and there is not sufficient time for
252 testing and evaluation or for a small project where the cost of trial mixture data is not justified. <R5.4.1>

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

253

254 22.4.2.3.— As data become available during construction, it shall be permitted to modify
255 a mixture that consistently exceeds the acceptance criteria of 22.5, provided that
256 acceptable evidence is furnished to the licensed design professional to demonstrate
257 that the modified mixture will comply with the requirements of 22.4.1.1. <based on 5.5>

258 R22.4.2.3 — Often, at the beginning of a project, concrete mixtures will be proportioned conservatively
259 to ensure passing the acceptance criteria. As test data showing actual variability become available, it may
260 be appropriate to proportion the mixture less conservatively. See ACI 214 R22.4 for guidance. <~>
261
262 22.5 — Evaluation and acceptance of concrete
263
264 22.5.1 — General
265
266 22.5.1.1 — A strength test shall be the average of the strengths of at least two 6 x 12 in.
267 cylinders or at least three 4 x 8 in. cylinders made from the same sample of concrete and tested
268 at 28 days or at test age designated for f′c. <5.6.2.4>
269
270 R22.5.1.1 — Casting and testing more than the minimum number of specimens may be desirable in case
271 it becomes necessary to discard an outlying individual cylinder strength in accordance with ACI 214R.22.4
272 If individual cylinder strengths are discarded in accordance with ACI 214R, a strength test is valid
273 provided at least two individual 6 by 12 in. cylinder strengths or at least three 4 by 8 in. cylinders are
274 averaged. All individual cylinder strengths that are not discarded in accordance with ACI 214R are to be
275 used to calculate the average strength. The size and number of specimens representing a strength test
276 should be the same for each class of concrete. <R5.6.2.4>

277 Testing three instead of two 4 by 8 in. cylinders preserves the confidence level of the average strength
278 because 4 by 8 in. cylinders tend to have approximately 20 percent higher within-test variability than 6 by
279 12 in. cylinders.22.5 <R5.6.2.4>
280
281 22.5.1.2 — The testing agency performing acceptance testing shall comply with ASTM C1077.
282
283 R22.5.1.2 — ASTM C1077 defines the duties, responsibilities, and minimum technical requirements of
284 testing agency personnel and defines the technical requirements for equipment used in testing concrete
285 and concrete aggregates. Agencies that test cylinders or cores to determine compliance with Code
286 requirements should be accredited or inspected for conformance to the requirement of ASTM C1077 by a
287 recognized evaluation authority. <R5.6.1>

288
289 22.5.1.3 -- Qualified field testing technicians shall perform tests on fresh concrete at the job site,
290 prepare specimens for standard curing, prepare specimens for field curing, if required, and
291 record the temperature of the fresh concrete when preparing specimens for strength tests.
292 <5.6.1>
293
294
295 R22.5.1.3 — Technicians can establish qualifications by becoming certified through certification
296 programs. Field technicians in charge of sampling concrete; testing for slump, unit weight, yield, air
297 content, and temperature; and making and curing test specimens should be certified in accordance with

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

298 the requirements of the ACI Concrete Field Testing Technician—Grade 1 Certification Program, or the
299 requirements of ASTM C1077, or an equivalent program. <R5.6.1>

300 22.5.1.4 — Qualified laboratory technicians shall perform required laboratory tests. <5.6.1>
301
302 R22.5.1.4— Concrete testing laboratory personnel should be certified in accordance with the
303 requirements of the ACI Concrete Laboratory Testing Technician – Level 1 Certification Program, the
304 ACI Concrete Strength Testing Technician Certification Program, the requirements of ASTM C1077, or
305 an equivalent program. <R5.6.1>
306
307 22.5.1.5 – All reports of acceptance tests shall be provided to the licensed design professional,
308 contractor, concrete producer, and, when requested, to the owner and the building official.
309 <5.6.1>
310
311 R22.5.1.5— The Code requires testing reports to be distributed to the parties responsible for the design,
312 construction, and approval of the Work. Such distribution of test reports should be indicated in contracts
313 for inspection and testing services. Prompt distribution of testing reports allows for timely identification
314 of either compliance or the need for corrective action. A complete record of testing allows the concrete
315 producer to reliably establish appropriate mixture proportions for future Work. <R5.6.1>
316
317 22.5.2 — Frequency of testing
318
319 22.5.2.1 — Samples for preparing strength test specimens of each class of concrete placed
320 each day shall be taken in accordance with (a), (b), and (c): <5.6.2.1>
321
322 (a) At least once a day;
323
324 (b) At least once for each 150 yd3 of concrete;
325
326 (c) At least once for each 5000 ft2 of surface area for slabs or walls.
327
328 R22.5.2.1 — Samples for strength tests are to be taken on a strictly random basis if they are to measure
329 properly the acceptability of the concrete. To be representative within the period of placement, the choice
330 of times of sampling, or the batches of concrete to be sampled, is to be made on the basis of chance alone.
331 Batches are not sampled on the basis of appearance, convenience, or other possibly biased criterion,
332 because the statistical analyses will lose their validity. ASTM D366522.6 describes procedures for random
333 selection of the batches to be tested. Specimens for only one strength test (as defined in 22.5.1.1.) are to
334 be made from a single batch, and water may not be added to the concrete after the sample is taken.
335 <R5.6.2.2>

336
337
338 R22.5.2.1(c)—In calculating surface area, only one side of the slab or wall is considered. Criterion (c)
339 will require more frequent sampling than once for each 150 yd3 placed if average wall or slab thickness is
340 less than 9-3/4 in. <R5.6.2.1>
341
342 22.5.2.2 — On a given project, if total volume of concrete is such that frequency of testing
343 required by 22.5.2.1 would provide less than five strength tests for a given class of concrete,

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

344 strength test specimens shall be made from at least five randomly selected batches or from
345 each batch if fewer than five batches are used. <5.6.2.2>
346
347
348 22.5.2.3— If total quantity of a given class of concrete is less than 50 yd3, strength tests are not
349 required when evidence of satisfactory strength is submitted to and approved by the building
350 official. <5.6.2.3>
351
352 22.5.3 — Acceptance criteria for standard-cured specimens
353
354 22.5.3.1 — Specimens for acceptance tests shall be in accordance with (a) and (b):
355
356 (a) Sampling of concrete for strength test specimens shall be in accordance with ASTM
357 C172; <5.6.3.1>
358
359 (b) Cylinders for strength tests shall be made and standard-cured in accordance with
360 ASTM C31 and tested in accordance with ASTM C39. Cylinders shall be 4 x 8 in. or 6 x
361 12 in. <5.6.3.2>
362
363 R22.5.3.1—The cylinder size should be agreed upon by the owner, licensed design professional, and
364 testing agency before construction. <R5.6.3.2>
365
366 22.5.3.2 — Strength level of an individual class of concrete shall be acceptable if (a) and (b) are
367 satisfied: <5.6.3.3>
368
369 (a) Every arithmetic average of any three consecutive strength tests equals or exceeds
370 f′c;
371
372 (b) No strength test falls below f′c by more than 500 psi if f′c is 5000 psi or less; or by
373 more than 0.10 f′c if f′c is greater than 5000 psi.
374
375 R22.5.3.2—Evaluation and acceptance of the concrete can be judged immediately as test results are
376 received during the course of the Work. Strength tests failing to meet these criteria will occur
377 occasionally (probably about once in 100 tests)22.4 even though concrete strength and uniformity are
378 satisfactory. Allowance should be made for such statistically expected variations in deciding whether the
379 strength level being produced is adequate. <R5.6.3.3>
380
381 22.5.3.3 — If the requirements of 22.5.3.2 are not satisfied, steps shall be taken to increase the
382 average of subsequent strength test results. <5.6.3.4>
383
384 R22.5.3.3 —The steps taken to increase the average level of subsequent strength test results will depend
385 on the particular circumstances, but could include one or more of the following:
386 (a) Increase in cementitious materials content;
387 (b) Reduction in or better control of water content;
388 (c) Use of a water-reducing admixture to improve the dispersion of cementitious materials;
389 (d) Other changes in mixture proportions;
390 (e) Reduction in delivery time;
391 (f) Closer control of air content;
392 (g) Improvement in the quality of the testing, including strict compliance with ASTM C172,
393 ASTM C31, and ASTM C39. <R5.6.3.4>

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

394 Such changes in operating procedures, or small changes in cementitious materials content, or water
395 content should not require a formal resubmission; however, changes in sources of cement, aggregates, or
396 admixtures need to be accompanied by evidence that the average strength level will be improved.
397 <R5.6.3.4>

398
399 22.5.3.4 — Requirements of 22.5.6 shall apply if 22.5.3.2(b) is not satisfied. <5.6.3.4>
400
401 22.5.4 — Field-cured specimens for curing adequacy
402
403 22.5.4.1 — If required by the building official or licensed design professional, results of strength
404 tests of cylinders cured in accordance with (a) and (b) shall be provided in addition to standard-
405 cured cylinder strength tests required by 22.5.3.: <5.6.4.1> <5.11.4>
406
407 (a) Field-cured test cylinders shall be molded at the same time and from the same samples as
408 standard-cured test cylinders<5.6.4.3>
409
410 (b) Field-cured cylinders shall be cured under field conditions in accordance with ASTM
411 C31. <5.6.4.2>
412
413 R22.5.4.1 — Strength tests of cylinders cured under field conditions may be required to evaluate the
414 adequacy of curing and protection of concrete in the structure. <R5.6.4.1>

415 The Code provides a specific criterion in 22.5.4.2 for judging the adequacy of field curing. For a
416 reasonably valid comparison to be made, field-cured cylinders and companion standard-cured cylinders
417 are made from the same sample. Field-cured cylinders are cured under the same conditions as the
418 structure. <R5.11.4>

419 Cylinders related to members not directly exposed to weather should be cured adjacent to those members
420 and provided with the same degree of protection and method of curing. The field cylinders should not be
421 treated more favorably than the structural members they represent. < R5.11.4>
422
423 In evaluating test results of field-cured cylinders, it should be recognized that even if cylinders are
424 protected in the same manner as the structure they may not experience the same temperature history as
425 the concrete in the structure. This different temperature history occurs because heat of hydration may be
426 dissipated differently in a cylinder compared with the structural member. <~>
427
428 22.5.4.2 — Procedures for protecting and curing concrete shall be improved if strength of field-
429 cured cylinders at test age designated for determination of f'c is less than 85 percent of that of
430 companion standard-cured cylinders. No change in procedures is required if field-cured cylinder
431 strength exceeds f'c by more than 500 psi. <5.6.4.4>
432
433 R22.5.4.2— Guidance is provided in the Code concerning the interpretation of tests of field-cured
434 cylinders. Research22.7 has shown that the strength of cylinders protected and cured to simulate good field
435 practice should be at least about 85 percent of standard-cured cylinders if both are tested at the age
436 designated for f'c. Thus a value of 85 percent has been set as a rational basis for judging the adequacy of
437 field curing. The comparison is made between the measured strengths of companion field-cured and
438 standard-cured cylinders, not between the strength of field-cured cylinders and the specified value of f'c.
439 However, test results for the field-cured cylinders are considered satisfactory if the strength of field-cured

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

440 cylinders exceed the f'c by more than 500 psi, even though they fail to reach 85 percent of the strength of
441 companion standard-cured cylinders. <R5.6.4.4>

442 The 85 percent criterion is based on the assumption that concrete is maintained above 50 °F and in a
443 moist condition for at least the first 7 days after placement, or high-early-strength concrete is maintained
444 above 50 °F and in a moist condition for at least the first 3 days after placement. <based upon R5.11.4>

445 If the field-cured cylinders do not provide satisfactory strength by this comparison, steps need to be taken
446 to improve the curing. If the tests indicate a possible serious deficiency in strength of concrete in the
447 structure, core tests may be required, with or without supplemental wet curing, to evaluate the structural
448 adequacy, as provided in 22.5.6. <R5.11.4>
449
450 22.5.5 — Investigation of low strength-test results
451
452 R22.5.5 — Investigation of low strength-test results
453
454 Requirements are provided if strength tests have failed to meet the specified acceptance criteria,
455 specifically 22.5.3.2(b) or 22.5.4.1. These requirements are applicable only for evaluation of in-place
456 strength at the time of construction. Strength evaluation of existing structures is covered by Chapter 24.
457 The building official should apply judgment as to the significance of low test results and whether they
458 indicate need for concern. If further investigation is deemed necessary, such investigation may include in-
459 place tests as described in ACI 228.1R22.8 or, in extreme cases, strength tests of cores taken from the
460 structure. <R5.6.5>

461 In-place tests of concrete, such as by probe penetration (ASTM C803)22.9, rebound hammer (ASTM
462 C805)22.10, or pullout test (ASTM C900)22.11, may be useful in determining whether a portion of the
463 structure actually contains low-strength concrete. Unless these in-place tests have been correlated with
464 standard strength test results for the concrete in the structure, they are of value primarily for comparisons
465 within the same structure rather than as quantitative estimates of strength. <R5.6.5>

466 For cores, if required, conservative acceptance criteria are provided in 22.5.6.4 that should ensure
467 structural adequacy for virtually any type of construction.22.7, 22.12-22.14 Lower strength may be tolerated
468 under many circumstances, but this is a matter of judgment on the part of the licensed design professional
469 and building official. If the strengths of cores obtained in accordance with 22.5.6.3 fail to comply with
470 22.5.6.4, it may be practical, particularly in the case of floor or roof systems, for the building official to
471 require a load test (Chapter 24). Short of load tests, if time and conditions permit, an effort may be made
472 to improve the strength of the concrete in place by supplemental wet curing. Effectiveness of
473 supplemental curing should be verified by further strength evaluation using procedures previously
474 discussed. <R5.6.5>

475 The Code, as stated, concerns itself with assuring structural safety, and the requirements in 22.5.5 are
476 aimed at that objective. It is not the function of the Code to assign responsibility for strength deficiencies.
477 <R5.6.5>

478 Under the requirements of this section, it is recognized that cores taken to confirm structural adequacy
479 will usually be taken at ages later than those specified for f'c. <R5.6.5>
480
481 22.5.5.1 — If any strength test of standard-cured cylinders falls below f′c by more than the
482 values given in 22.5.3.2(b) or if tests of field-cured cylinders in accordance with 22.5.4 indicate

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

483 deficiencies in protection and curing, steps shall be taken to ensure that structural capacity of
484 the structure is not jeopardized. <5.6.5.1>
485
486 R22.5.5.1 -- If the strength of field-cured cylinders does not conform to 22.5.4.2, steps need to be taken to
487 improve the curing. If supplemental in-place tests (see R22.5.6) confirm a possible deficiency in strength
488 of concrete in the structure, core tests may be required to evaluate structural adequacy.
489
490 22.5.5.2 — If the likelihood of low-strength concrete is confirmed and calculations indicate that
491 load-carrying capacity is significantly reduced, tests of cores drilled from the area in question in
492 accordance with ASTM C42 shall be permitted. In such cases, three cores shall be taken for
493 each strength test that falls below the values given in 22.5.3.2(b). <5.6.5.2>
494
495 22.5.5.3 — Cores shall be obtained, moisture-conditioned by storage in watertight bags or
496 containers, transported to the laboratory, and tested in accordance with ASTM C42. Cores shall
497 be tested between 48 hours and 7 days after coring unless approved by the licensed design
498 professional. The specifier of tests referenced in ASTM C42 shall be the licensed design
499 professional. <5.6.5.3>
500
501 R22.5.5.3—The use of a water-cooled bit results in a core with a moisture gradient between the exterior
502 surface and the interior. This gradient lowers the apparent compressive strength of the core.22.25 The
503 requirement of at least 48 hours between the time of coring and testing provides a minimum time for the
504 moisture gradient to be reduced. The maximum time between coring and testing is intended to ensure
505 timely testing of cores if strength of concrete is in question. <R5.6.5>

506 Research22.15 has also shown that other moisture conditioning procedures, such as soaking or air drying,
507 affect measured core strengths and result in conditions that are not representative of the in-place concrete.
508 Thus, to provide reproducible moisture conditions that are representative of in-place conditions, a
509 standard moisture conditioning procedure that permits dissipation of moisture gradients is prescribed for
510 cores. ASTM C42 permits the specifier of tests to modify the default duration of moisture conditioning
511 before testing. <R5.6.5>

512
513 22.5.5.4 — Concrete in an area represented by core tests shall be considered structurally
514 adequate if (a) and (b) are satisfied:
515
516 (a) The average of three cores is equal to at least 85 percent of f′c;
517
518 (b) No single core is less than 75 percent of f′c. <5.6.5.4>
519
520 R22.5.5.4—An average core strength of 85 percent of the specified strength is realistic.22.7 It is not
521 realistic, however, to expect the average core strength to be equal to f'c, because of differences in the size
522 of specimens, conditions of obtaining specimens, degree of consolidation, and curing conditions. The
523 acceptance criteria for core strengths have been established with consideration that cores for
524 investigating low strength test results will typically be extracted at an age later than specified for
525 f'c. For the purpose of satisfying 22.5.5.4, this Code does not intend that core strengths be
526 adjusted for the age of the cores. <R5.6.5 plus ~>

527 22.5.5.4.1 — Additional testing of cores extracted from locations represented by erratic core
528 strength results shall be permitted. <5.6.5.4>
529

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

530 22.5.5.5 — If criteria of 22.5.6.4 are not met and if the structural adequacy remains in doubt, the
531 responsible authority shall be permitted to order a strength evaluation in accordance with
532 Chapter 24 for the questionable portion of the structure or take other appropriate action.
533 <5.6.5.5>
534
535 22.5.6 — Acceptance of steel fiber-reinforced concrete
536
537 22.5.6.1 — Steel fiber-reinforced concrete shall conform to ASTM C1116. <5.1.6>
538
539 22.5.6.2 — Acceptance of steel fiber-reinforced concrete used for shear resistance in beams
540 shall be determined by testing in accordance with ASTM C1609. In addition, fiber-reinforced
541 concrete shall satisfy the compressive strength test requirements of 22.5.3. <5.6.6.1>
542
543 22.5.6.3 — Steel fiber-reinforced concrete shall be considered acceptable for shear resistance if
544 conditions (a), (b), and (c) are satisfied:
545
546 (a) There are at least 100 lb of deformed steel fibers per cubic yard of concrete;
547 <5.6.6.2a>
548
549 (b) The residual strength obtained from flexural testing in accordance with ASTM C1609
550 at a midspan deflection of 1/300 of the span length is at least 90 percent of the
551 measured first-peak strength obtained from a flexural test or 90 percent of the strength
552 corresponding to fr from Eq. (5.2.2.1), whichever is greater; <5.6.6.2b>
553
554 (c) The residual strength obtained from flexural testing in accordance with ASTM C1609
555 at a midspan deflection of 1/150 of the span length is at least 75 percent of the
556 measured first-peak strength obtained from a flexural test or 75 percent of the strength
557 corresponding to fr from Eq.(5.2.2.1), whichever is greater. <5.6.6.2c>
558
559 R22.5.6.3 — The performance criteria are based on results from flexural tests22.16 conducted on steel
560 fiber-reinforced concretes with fiber types and contents similar to those used in the tests of beams that
561 served as the basis for 13.6..3.1. <R5.6.6.1>

562 The term “residual strength” is defined in ASTM C1609 and is related to the ability of cracked fiber-
563 reinforced concrete to resist tension. <R5.6.6.2(b), (c)
564
565
566
NOTE: Sub G is planning to rewrite, as new business, the provisions and
commentary dealing with grout for bonded tendons. Those provisions and
commentary, when available, will be proposed for replacing what is shown below.
567
568 22.6 — Grout for bonded tendons <18.18>
569
570 22.6.1 — Materials for grout <18.18.2>
571
572 R22.6.1—Materials for Grout

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

573 Past success with grout for bonded tendons has been with portland cement. A blanket endorsement of all
574 cementitious materials for use with this grout is inappropriate because of a lack of experience or tests with
575 cementitious materials other than portland cement and a concern that some cementitious materials might
576 introduce chemicals that are harmful to tendons. Use of finely graded sand in the grout should only be
577 considered with large ducts having large void areas.
578
579 22.6.1.1 — Grout shall consist of portland cement and water; or portland cement, sand, and
580 water.
581
582 22.6.1.2 — Materials for grout shall conform to the specifications listed in Table 22.6.1.2.
583
584 Table 22.6.1.2 — Materials for grout

Material Specification
Portland cement ASTM C150

Water ASTM C1602

Sand, if used ASTM C144*

*Gradation shall be permitted to be modified as necessary to obtain
satisfactory flowability.
585
586 22.6.1.3 — Admixtures conforming to 22.3.4 and known to have no injurious effects on grout,
587 steel, or concrete shall be permitted. Calcium chloride or admixtures containing chloride from
588 sources other than impurities in admixture ingredients shall not be used in grout for bonded
589 tendons.
590
591 R22.6.1.3—Substances known to be harmful to tendons, grout, or concrete are chlorides, fluorides,
592 sulfites, and nitrates. Aluminum powder or other expansive admixtures, if approved, should produce an
593 unconfined expansion of 5 to 10 percent. Neat cement grout is used in almost all building construction.
594
595 22.6.2 — Selection of grout proportions
596
597 R22.6.2 — Selection of grout proportions
598
599 Grout proportioned in accordance with these provisions will generally lead to 7-day compressive strength
600 on standard 2-in. cubes in excess of 2500 psi and 28-day strengths of about 4000 psi. The handling and
601 placing properties of grout are usually given more consideration than strength when designing grout
602 mixtures.
603
604 22.6.2.1 — Proportions of materials for grout shall be based on (a) or (b):
605
606 (a) Results of tests on fresh and hardened grout prior to beginning grouting operations;
607
608 (b) Prior documented experience with similar materials and equipment under
609 comparable field conditions.
610
611 22.6.2.2 — Cement used in the Work shall correspond to that on which selection of grout
612 proportions was based.
613

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

614 22.6.2.3 — Water content shall be minimum necessary for proper pumping of grout; however,
615 w/c shall not exceed 0.45 by weight.
616
617 22.6.2.4 — Water shall not be added to increase grout flowability that has been decreased by
618 delayed use of the grout.
619
620 End of current Chapter 22
621
622 Chapter 22 Commentary References
623

624 22.1. ACI Committee 222, “Protection of Metals in Concrete Against Corrosion (ACI 222R-01,
625 Reapproved 2010),” American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 2010, 42 pp.

626 22.2. ACI Committee 223, “Guide for the Use of Shrinkage-Compensating Concrete (ACI 223R-10),”
627 American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 2010, 16 pp.

628 22.3. Parra-Montesinos, G. J., “Shear Strength of Beams with Deformed Steel Fibers,” Concrete
629 International, V. 28, No. 11, Nov. 2006, pp. 57-66.

630 22.4. ACI Committee 214, “Guide to Evaluation of Strength Test Results of Concrete (ACI 214R-11),”
631 American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 2011, 16 pp.

632 22.5. Carino, N. J.; Guthrie, W. F.; Lagergren, E. S.; and Mullings, G. M., “Effects of Testing Variables
633 on the Strength of High- Strength (90 MPa) Concrete Cylinders,” High-Performance Concrete, SP-149,
634 V. M. Malhotra, ed., American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 1994, pp. 589-632.

635 22.6. ASTM D3665-07e1, “Standard Practice for Random Sampling of Construction Materials,” ASTM
636 International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2007, 13 pp.

637 22.7. Bloem, D. L., “Concrete Strength in Structures,” ACI JOURNAL, Proceedings V. 65, No. 3, Mar.
638 1968, pp. 176-187.

639 22.8. ACI Committee 228, “In-Place Methods to Estimate Concrete Strength (ACI 228.1R-03),”
640 American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 2003, 44 pp.

641 22.9. ASTM C803/C803M-03(2010), “Standard Test Method for Penetration Resistance of Hardened
642 Concrete,” ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2010, 5 pp.

643 22.10. ASTM C805/C805M-08, “Standard Test Method for Rebound Number of Hardened Concrete,”
644 ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2008, 3 pp.

645 22.11. ASTM C900-06, “Standard Test Method for Pullout Strength of Hardened Concrete,” ASTM
646 International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2006, 10 pp.

647 22.12. Bloem, D. L., “Concrete Strength Measurement—Cores vs. Cylinders,” Proceedings, ASTM, V.
648 65, 1965, pp. 668-696.

649 22.13. Malhotra, V. M., Testing Hardened Concrete: Nondestructive Methods, ACI Monograph No. 9,
650 American Concrete Institute/ Iowa State University Press, Farmington Hills, MI, 1976, 188 pp.

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 ACI 318-14 Chapter 22 Code & Commentary, Approved Version, 2012-09-10

651

652 22.14. Malhotra, V. M., “Contract Strength Requirements—Cores Versus In Situ Evaluation,” ACI
653 JOURNAL, Proceedings V. 74, No. 4, Apr. 1977, pp. 163-172.

654 22.15. Bartlett, M. F., and MacGregor, J. G., “Effect of Moisture Condition on Concrete Core Strengths,”
655 ACI Materials Journal, V. 91, No. 3, May-June 1994, pp. 227-236.

656 22.16. Chen, L.; Mindess, S.; Morgan, D. R.; Shah, S. P.; Johnston, C. D.; and Pigeon, M., “Comparative
657 Toughness Testing of Fiber Reinforced Concrete,” Testing of Fiber Reinforced Concrete, SP-155,
658 American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 1995, pp. 41-69.

659 End of Commentary References

660 Note: The following are cited in the Commentary but are also cited in the Code in the sections shown.

661 22.3.1.1. ASTM C595/C595-11, “Standard Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements,” ASTM
662 International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2011, 8 pp.

663 22.3.3.1. ASTM C1602/C1602M-06, “Standard Specification for Mixing Water Used in the Production of
664 Hydraulic Cement Concrete,” ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2007, 4 pp.

665 22.3.1.1. ASTM C845-04, “Standard Specification for Expansive Hydraulic Cement,” ASTM
666 International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2007, 3 pp.

667 22.4.1.2. ACI Committee 301, “Specifications for Structural Concrete (ACI 301-10),” American Concrete
668 Institute, Farmington Hills, MI, 2011, 82 pp.

669 22.5.1.2. ASTM C1077-11a, “Standard Practice for Agencies Testing Concrete and Concrete Aggregates
670 for Use in Construction and Criteria for Testing Agency Evaluation,” ASTM International, West
671 Conshohocken, PA, 2007, 9 pp.

672 22.5.3.1. ASTM C172/C172M-10, “Standard Practice for Sampling Freshly Mixed Concrete,” ASTM
673 International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2007, 3 pp.

674 22.5.3.1. ASTM C31/C31M-10, “Standard Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in
675 the Field,” ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2007, 6 pp.

676 22.5.3.1. ASTM C39/C39M-10, “Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical
677 Concrete Specimens,” ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2007, 7 pp.

678 22.5.5.2. ASTM C42/C42M-12, “Standard Test Method for Obtaining and Testing Drilled Cores and
679 Sawed Beams of Concrete,” ASTM International, West Conshohocken, PA, 2007, 6 pp.

680 22.5.6.2. ASTM C1609/C1609M-10, “Standard Test Method for Flexural Performance of Fiber-
681 Reinforced Concrete (Using Beam With Third-Point Loading),” ASTM International, West
682 Conshohocken, PA, 2007, 9 pp.

16