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 BRITISH STANDARD BS 1881-106:
1983
Reprinted,
incorporating
Amendments No. 1
and No. 2

Testing concrete —
Part 106: Methods for determination of
air content of fresh concrete
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UDC 666.972.017:691.32:620.1
 BS 1881-106:1983

Committees responsible for this

British Standard

This British Standard was published under the direction of the Cement,
Gypsum, Aggregates and Quarry Products Standards Committee CAB/–. Its
preparation was entrusted to Technical Committee CAB/4 upon which the
following bodies were represented:

British Aggregate Construction Materials Industries

British Precast Concrete Federation Ltd.
British Ready Mixed Concrete Association
Cement Admixtures Association
Cement and Concrete Association
Cement Makers’ Federation
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Concrete Society Limited

County Surveyor’s Society
Department of the Environment (PSA)
Department of the Environment (Building Research Establishment)
Department of the Environment (Transport and Road Research Laboratory)
Department of Transport
Electricity Supply Industry in England and Wales
Federation of Civil Engineering Contractors
Greater London Council
Institute of Concrete Technology
Institution of Civil Engineers
Institution of Highway Engineers
Institution of Municipal Engineers
Institution of Structural Engineers
Institution of Water Engineers and Scientists
National Federation of Building Trades Employers
Royal Institute of British Architects
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
Sand and Gravel Association Limited
Society of Chemical Industry

The following bodies were also represented in the drafting of the standard,
through subcommittees and panels:
This British Standard,
having been prepared under
the direction of the Cement, British Civil Engineering Test Equipment Manufacturers’ Association
Gypsum, Aggregates and Coopted members
Quarry Products Standards
Committee, was published
under the authority of the
Standards Board and comes
into effect on Amendments issued since publication
31 May 1983
Amd. No. Date of issue Comments
© BSI 12-1998
6068 July 1989
The following BSI references
relate to the work on this 6723 July 1991 Indicated by a sideline in the margin
standard:
Committee reference CAB/4
Draft for comment 81/12319 DC

ISBN 0 580 11925 4

 BS 1881-106:1983

Contents

Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
Foreword ii
1 Scope 1
2 Definitions 1
3 Sampling 1
4 Preparing the sample for test 1
5 Method A 1
6 Method B 5
7 Calculation and expression of results 9
8 Report 9
Figure 1 — Method A apparatus 3
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Figure 2 — Method B apparatus 7

Table 1 — Precision data for air content measurements 9
Publications referred to Inside back cover

© BSI 12-1998 i
 BS 1881-106:1983

Foreword

This Part of this British Standard, prepared under the direction of the Cement,
Gypsum, Aggregates and Quarry Products Standards Committee, is a revision of
clause 6 of BS 1881-2:1970. This revision includes two methods of measuring the
total air content, one of which is a revision of the method included in the 1970
edition.
Testing in accordance with both methods given in this Part of this standard will
comply with ISO 4848. Together with Parts 102, 103, 104 and 107, this Part of
BS 1881 supersedes BS 1881-2:1970, which is withdrawn.
No estimate of repeatability or reproducibility is given in this Part of this British
Standard. Reference should be made to BS 5497-1 for further information on the
determination of repeatability and reproducibility.
A British Standard does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users of British Standards are responsible for their correct application.
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Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity

from legal obligations.

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii,
pages 1 to 10, an inside back cover and a back cover.
This standard has been updated (see copyright date) and may have had
amendments incorporated. This will be indicated in the amendment table on
the inside front cover.

ii © BSI 12-1998
 BS 1881-106:1983

1 Scope b) Mixing the sample. The coning procedure is not suitable for
very high workability concrete and the following alternative
This Part of this British Standard describes two method of mixing is recommended. Having poured the
methods for determination of air content of concrete on to the sampling tray, use the shovel to turn the
concrete from the outside toward the centre, working
compacted fresh concrete, made with normal weight progressively once round all sides of the sampling tray.
or relatively dense aggregate having a nominal CAUTION. When cement is mixed with water,
maximum size of 40 mm or less. Neither of the alkali is released. Take precautions to avoid dry
methods is applicable to aerated concrete, very stiff cement entering the eyes, mouth and nose when
concrete which cannot be compacted by vibration mixing concrete. Prevent skin contact with wet
alone nor to concrete made with lightweight cement or concrete by wearing suitable protective
aggregates, air cooled blast-furnace slag or clothing. If cement or concrete enters the eye,
aggregates of high porosity. immediately wash it out thoroughly with clean
NOTE The titles of publications referred to in this standard are water and seek medical treatment without delay.
listed on the inside back cover.
Wash wet concrete off the skin immediately.
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2 Definitions 5 Method A
For the purposes of this Part of this British
5.1 General. In this method, the operational
Standard, the definitions given in BS 5328 and
principle consists of introducing water to a
BS 1881-101 apply.
predetermined height above a sample of concrete of
known volume and the application of a
3 Sampling predetermined air pressure over the water. The
Obtain the sample of fresh concrete by the reduction in volume of the air in the concrete sample
procedure given in BS 1881-101 or BS 1881-125. is measured by observing the amount the water
Commence the determination of air content as soon level is lowered under the applied pressure, the
as possible after sampling. latter amount being calibrated in terms of
percentage of air in the concrete sample.
4 Preparing the sample for test 5.2 Apparatus
4.1 Apparatus 5.2.1 General. The apparatus, one form of which is
4.1.1 Sampling tray, minimum shown diagrammatically in Figure 1, consists of the
dimensions 900 mm × 900 mm × 50 mm deep of following.
rigid construction and made from a non-absorbent 5.2.2 Container. A flanged cylindrical vessel of steel
material not readily attacked by cement paste. or other hard metal, not readily attacked by cement
4.1.2 Square mouthed shovel, size 2 in accordance paste, having a nominal capacity of at least 5 L and
with BS 3388. a ratio of diameter to height of not less than 0.75 nor
4.2 Procedure. Empty the sample from the more than 1.25. The outer rim and upper surface of
container(s) on to the sampling tray. Ensure that no the flange and the interior surfaces of the vessel
more than a light covering of slurry is left adhering shall be machined to a smooth finish. The container
to the container(s). shall be watertight and in addition it and the cover
assembly shall be suitable for an operating pressure
Thoroughly mix the sample by shovelling it to form of approximately 100 kN/m2 and be sufficiently rigid
a cone on the sampling tray and turning this over to limit the pressure expansion constant, D,
with the shovel to form a new cone, the operation (see 5.3.4) to not more than 0.1 % air content.
being carried out three times. When forming the
cones deposit each shovelful of the material on the 5.2.3 Cover assembly. A flanged rigid conical cover
apex of the cone so that the portions which slide fitted with a standpipe. The cover shall be of steel or
down the sides are distributed as evenly as possible other hard metal not readily attacked by cement
and so that the centre of the cone is not displaced. paste and shall have interior surfaces inclined at not
Flatten the third cone by repeated vertical insertion less than 10° from the surface of the flange. The
of the shovel across the apex of the cone, lifting the outer rim and lower surface of the flange and the
shovel clear of the concrete after each insertion. sloping interior face shall be machined to a smooth
finish. The cover shall have provision for being
NOTE The following modifications to the mixing procedures
may be necessary when preparing samples of very high clamped to the container to make a pressure seal
workability concrete (e.g. superplasticized concrete) for test. without entrapping air at the joint between the
a) Sampling tray. The vertical lips on the edges of the tray flanges of the cover and the container.
may have to be larger to contain the sample without spillage
during mixing.

© BSI 12-1998 1
 BS 1881-106:1983

The standpipe shall consist of a graduated glass 5.2.11 Compacting bar or vibrator. Compacting bar
tube of uniform bore, or a metal tube of uniform bore made from iron or steel, weighing 1.8 ± 0.1 kg,
with a glass gauge attached. The graduated scale at least 380 mm long and having a ramming
shall indicate air content from 0 % to at least 8 % face 25.0 ± 0.5 mm square, or a vibrating hammer
and preferable 10 %. The scale shall be graduated or table suitable for compacting the concrete in
with divisions every 0.1 % air content, the divisions accordance with 5.5.2 or 5.5.3.
being not less than 2 mm apart. A scale in 5.2.12 Container with spout. A container fitted with
which 25 mm represents 1 % of air content is a spout having a capacity of 2 L to 5 L to fill the
convenient. apparatus with water.
The cover shall be fitted with a suitable device for 5.2.13 Mallet. A soft-faced mallet with a mass of
venting of the air chamber, a non-return air inlet approximately 250 g.
valve and a small valve for bleeding off water. The
applied pressure shall be indicated by a pressure 5.2.14 Balances. A balance capable of weighing up
to 1 kg to an accuracy of ± 0.5 g over the range used
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gauge connected to the air chamber above the water

column. The gauge shall be graduated with in the test and a balance capable of weighing up
divisions every 5 kN/m2, the divisions not being less to 20 kg to an accuracy of ± 5 g over the range used
than 2 mm apart. The gauge shall have a full scale in the test.
reading of 200 kN/m2. These balances shall be calibrated on initial
5.2.4 Calibration cylinder. A hollow cylindrical commissioning and at least annually thereafter
measure of brass or other strong non-corrodible using weights of which the accuracy can be traced to
metal, having a capacity of approximately 0.3 L. the national standard of mass.
The rim of the cylinder shall be machined to a The balances shall be checked after relocation or
smooth plane surface at right angles to the axis of disturbance. A certificate stating the accuracy shall
the cylinder. be obtained from the organization carrying out the
5.2.5 Support. A support for the calibration cylinder check.
made of non-corrodible material and which will 5.3 Calibration of apparatus
allow free flow of water into and out of the cylinder 5.3.1 General. The calibration tests described
in the inverted position. in 5.3.2, 5.3.3, 5.3.4 and 5.3.5 shall be made at the
5.2.6 Spring. A non-corrodible coil spring or time of the initial calibration of the apparatus and
equivalent for retaining the calibration cylinder in at any time when it is necessary to check whether
place. the capacity of the calibration cylinder or container
5.2.7 Transparent plates. Two rigid transparent may have changed. The calibration test described
plates, one suitable for use as a closure for the in 5.3.6 and 5.3.7 shall be made as frequently as
calibration cylinder and one as a closure for the necessary to check the pressure gauge so as to
container. ensure that the proper gauge pressure, P, is being
used. Recalibration of the apparatus will also be
5.2.8 Deflecting plate or spray tube. A thin required when the location at which it is to be used
non-corrodible disc of not less than 100 mm varies in elevation by more than 200 m from that at
diameter to minimize disturbance of the concrete which it was last calibrated.
when water is added to the apparatus. Alternatively
a brass spray tube of appropriate diameter which 5.3.2 Capacity of the calibration cylinder. Using
may be an integral part of the cover assembly or the 1 kg balance, determine the capacity of the
provided separately. The spray tube shall be calibration cylinder by measuring the mass of water
constructed so that when water is added to the required to fill it. For this purpose, fill the weighed
container it is sprayed on to the walls of the cover in cylinder with water at ambient temperature (15 °C
such a manner as to flow down the sides causing to 25 °C) and carefully cover it with the previously
minimum disturbance to the concrete. weighed transparent plate, ensuring that no air
bubbles are trapped under the plate and that
5.2.9 Air pump. A hand pressure pump such as a surplus water is wiped away before weighing the
bicycle tyre pump with a lead facilitating connection assembly. By repeating this procedure, make a total
to the non-return air inlet valve on the cover of three weighings of the covered cylinder filled with
assembly. water. Calculate the average mass of water, m1,
5.2.10 Scoop, as described in 3.1 of contained in the full cylinder and record it to the
BS 1881-101:1983. nearest 0.5 g.

2 © BSI 12-1998
 BS 1881-106:1983
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Figure 1 — Method A apparatus

5.3.3 Capacity of the container. Using the 20 kg 5.3.5 Calibration constant, K. The calibration
balance, determine the capacity of the container by constant is the reading needed on the air content
measuring the mass of water required to fill it. For scale during the routine calibration procedure to
this purpose, smear a thin film of grease on the obtain the gauge pressure required to make the
flange of the container, and, after weighing empty, graduations on the air content scale correspond
fill with water at ambient temperature (15 °C directly to the percentage of air introduced into the
to 25 °C) and make a watertight joint by sliding the container by the calibration cylinder when the
weighed transparent plate over the top of the container is full of water.
container, ensuring that no air bubbles are trapped The constant, K, is generally calculated as follows
under the plate and that surplus water is wiped (see note):
away before weighing the assemply. By repeating
this procedure, make a total of three weighings of K = 0.98 R + e
the covered container filled with water. Calculate where
the average mass of water, m2, contained in the full
container and record it to the nearest 5 g. e is the pressure expansion constant
5.3.4 Pressure expansion constant, e. The pressure (see 5.3.4);
expansion constant is determined by filling the R is the capacity of the calibration cylinder
apparatus with water, making sure that all expressed relative to the capacity of the
entrapped air has been removed and the water level container and is calculated as follows:
is exactly on the zero mark, and applying an air
pressure of 100 kPa (100 kN/m2). The reading of the
m1
water column (in percent air content) will be the R = --------
m2
⋅ 100 % (see 5.3.2 and 5.3.3)
pressure expansion constant, e, for the apparatus.
NOTE Strictly speaking, the air pressure applied during this NOTE The factor 0.98 is used to correct for the reduction in the
procedure should be the required operating pressure P volume of air in the calibration vessel when it is compressed by a
determined as in 5.3.6. However, as the value of e is needed to depth of water equal to the depth of the container. This factor is
determine P by way of the calibration constant K a logically approximately 0.98 for a 200 mm deep container at sea level. Its
closed cycle of operations exists. In practice, the change in e due value decreases to approximately 0.975 at 1 500 m above sea
to a change in P is small enough to be ignored. As P is commonly level and 0.970 at 4 000 m above sea level. The value of the
about 100 kPa, this value is prescribed to overcome the problem. constant will decrease by about 0.01 for each 100 mm increase in
Its use will lead to a value of e that is sufficiently accurate for the bowl depth. Hence the term 0.98R represents the effective
test. volume of the calibration vessel expressed as a percentage of the
container under normal operating conditions.

© BSI 12-1998 3
 BS 1881-106:1983

5.3.6 Required operating pressure. Place the 5.4.2 Aggregate sample size. Determine the
calibration cylinder support centrally on the bottom aggregate correction factor by applying the
of the clean container and place the cylinder on the operating pressure on a combined sample of the
support with its open end downward. Place the coil coarse and fine aggregates in the approximate
spring on the cylinder and clamp the cover assembly proportions and moisture conditions that exist in
carefully in place. the concrete sample. Obtain the sample of
Fill the apparatus with water at ambient aggregates either by washing the cement from the
temperature to a level above the zero mark on the concrete sample tested for air content, through
air content scale. Close the air vent and pump air a 150 µm BS 410 sieve, or by using a combined
into the apparatus approximately to the operating sample of fine and coarse aggregate similar to that
pressure (about 100 kPa). Lightly tap the sides and used in the concrete. In the latter case calculate the
cover with the mallet to remove as much entrapped masses of fine and coarse aggregates to be used, mf
air as possible adhering to the interior surfaces of and mc, respectively as follows:
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the apparatus and gradually reduce the pressure by mf = VoDpf

opening the vent. Bring the water level exactly to mc = VoDpc
the zero mark by bleeding water through the small
valve in the conical cover and close the air vent. where
Apply pressure by means of the pump until the
reading of the water level equals the calibration pf and pc are the proportions of fine and coarse
constant, K (see 5.3.5). Record the pressure, P, aggregates, respectively, expressed as
indicated on the pressure gauge. Gradually release fractions by mass of the total concrete mix
the pressure by opening the vent until zero pressure (aggregates, cement and water);
is indicated. If the water level returns to a reading Vo is the capacity of the container (in m3)
less than 0.05 % air content, take the pressure, P, as (see 5.3.3);
the operating pressure. If the water level fails to
D is the density of the concrete to be tested
return to a reading below 0.05 % air content, check
(in kg/m3), determined in accordance with
the apparatus for leakage and repeat the procedure.
BS 1881-107 or calculated from the known
5.3.7 Alternative operating pressure. The range of proportions and densities of the materials
air contents which can be measured with a and the nominal air content.
particular apparatus can be extended by
determining an appropriate alternative operating 5.4.3 Filling the container. Partially fill the
pressure, e.g. if the range is to be doubled the container of the apparatus with water and introduce
alternative operating pressure, P1, is that for which the combined sample of aggregate in small
the apparatus indicates half of the calibration scoopfuls. This shall be done in such a manner as to
reading, K, (see 5.3.5). entrap as little air as possible and if necessary add
Exact calibration will require the determination of additional water to inundate all of the aggregate.
the pressure expansion constant, e (see 5.3.4) for the After the addition of each scoopful remove any foam
reduced operating pressure but, since the change in promptly then stir the aggregate with the
the pressure expansion constant can normally be compacting bar and tap the container with the
disregarded, the alternative operating pressure can mallet to release any entrapped air.
be determined during the determination of the 5.4.4 Determination of aggregate correction factor.
normal operating pressure (see 5.3.6). When all the aggregate has been placed in the
5.4 Aggregate correction factor container wipe clean the flanges of the container
and clamp the cover in position. Fill the apparatus
5.4.1 General. The aggregate correction factor will with water and tap lightly with the mallet to remove
vary with different aggregates and although it will air adhering to the interior surfaces of the
remain reasonably constant for a particular apparatus. Bring the level of the water in the
aggregate an occasional check should be carried out. standpipe to zero by bleeding through the small
The aggregate correction factor can be determined valve with the air vent open. Close the air vent and
only by test as it is not directly related to the water apply the operating pressure, P, by means of the air
absorption of the particles. pump.

4 © BSI 12-1998
 BS 1881-106:1983

Record the reading of the gauge tube as h1, release 5.5.3 Compacting with the vibrator. When
the pressure and take a further reading, h2. Repeat compacting each layer by means of the vibrating
the entire procedure once, obtaining a second pair of hammer or table use applied vibration of the
readings, h1 and h2. Take the average value minimum duration necessary to achieve full
of h1– h2 as the aggregate correction factor, G, compaction of the concrete. Over-vibration may
unless the two values of h1 – h2 differ by more cause excessive segregation and laitance or loss of
than 0.1 % air content in which case carry out entrained air, if present. The required duration of
further determinations until consistent results are vibration will depend upon the consistency of the
obtained. concrete and the effectiveness of the vibrator and
5.5 Compaction of the concrete vibration shall cease as soon as the surface of the
concrete becomes relatively smooth and has a glazed
5.5.1 General. Place the sample of concrete to be appearance. Record the duration of vibration.
tested in the container in such a way as to remove as
much entrapped air as possible (without 5.6 Procedure. Wipe the flanges of the container
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significantly reducing the amount of entrained air, and of the cover assembly thoroughly clean and in
if present) and to produce full compaction of the the absence of the spray tube, place the deflecting
concrete with neither excessive segregation nor plate, if used, centrally on the concrete and pressed
laitance. For this purpose, by means of the scoop, into contact with it. Clamp the cover assembly in
place the concrete in the container in three layers place, care being taken to ensure that there is a good
approximately equal in depth and compact each pressure seal between the cover and the container.
layer by using either the compacting bar or the Fill the apparatus with water and tap lightly with
vibrator in the manner described below in 5.5.2 the mallet to remove air adhering to the interior
or 5.5.3. If the concrete has a slump greater than surfaces of the cover. Bring the level of water in the
approximately 75 mm, do not use vibration. standpipe to zero by bleeding through the small
valve with the air vent open. Close the air vent and
The quantity of material used in the final layer shall apply the operating pressure, P, by means of the air
be, as nearly as possible, just sufficient to fill the pump.
container without having to remove excess material.
A small quantity of additional concrete may be Record the reading on the gauge tube, h1, and
added if necessary and further compacted in order release the pressure. Read the gauge tube again and
to just fill the container, but the removal of excess if the reading, h2 is 0.2 % air content or less record
material should be avoided. the value h1 – h2 as the apparent air content, A1, to
the nearest 0.1 % air content. If h2 is greater
5.5.2 Compacting with compacting bar. When than 0.2 % air content apply the operating pressure,
compacting each layer with the compacting bar, P, again, giving a gauge tube reading h3 and a final
distribute the strokes of the compacting bar in a reading h4 after release of the pressure. If h4 – h2
uniform manner over the cross section of the is 0.1 % air content or less record the value h3 – h4
container, and ensure that the compacting bar does as the apparent air content. If h4 – h2 is greater
not penetrate significantly any previous layer nor than 0.1 % air content it is probable that leakage is
forcibly strike the bottom of the container when occurring and the test shall be disregarded.
compacting the first layer. The number of strokes
per layer required to produce full compaction will 6 Method B
depend upon the consistence of the concrete but in
no case shall the concrete be subjected to fewer 6.1 General. In this method the operational
than 25 strokes per layer. In order to remove principle consists of merging a known volume of air
pockets of entrapped air but not the entrained air, at a known pressure in a sealed air chamber with
after compaction of each layer tap the sides of the the unknown volume of air in the concrete sample,
container smartly with the mallet until large the dial on the pressure gauge being calibrated in
bubbles of air cease to appear on the surface and terms of percentage of air for the resultant pressure.
depressions left by the compacting bar are removed.
Record the number of strokes.

© BSI 12-1998 5
 BS 1881-106:1983

6.2 Apparatus 6.2.9 Mallet. A soft-faced mallet with a mass of

6.2.1 General. The apparatus, one form of which is approximately 250 g.
shown diagrammatically in Figure 2 consists of the 6.2.10 Syringe. A rubber syringe, suitable for
following. injecting water into the container either through
6.2.2 Container. A flanged cylindrical vessel of steel valve A or valve B.
or other hard metal, not readily attacked by cement 6.2.11 Balance. A balance capable of weighing up
paste, having a nominal capacity of at least 5 L and to 1 kg to an accuracy of ± 0.5 g for use in calibrating
a ratio of diameter to height of not less than 0.75 or the apparatus.
more than 1.25. The outer rim and the interior The balance shall be calibrated on initial
surfaces of the vessel shall be machined to a smooth commissioning and at least annually thereafter
finish. The container shall be watertight and in using weights of which the accuracy can be traced to
addition it and the cover assembly shall be suitable the national standard of mass. The balance shall be
for an operating pressure of checked after relocation or disturbance. A certificate
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approximately 200 kN/m2. stating the accuracy shall be obtained from the
6.2.3 Cover assembly. A flanged rigid cover of steel organization carrying out the check.
or other hard metal not readily attacked by cement Fill the container with water at ambient
paste. The outer rim and lower surface of the flange temperature and place the transparent plate over it
as well as the interior surfaces shall be machined to to eliminate any convex meniscus. Smear a thin film
a smooth finish. The cover shall have provision for of grease on the flange of the container to effect a
being clamped to the container to make a pressure water tight joint between the transparent plate and
seal without entrapping air at the joint between the top of the container. Wipe away surplus water
flanges of the cover and the container. and determine the mass of the container filled with
The cover assembly shall be fitted with a pressure water by weighing on the balance. Screw the
gauge calibrated to indicate air content from 0 % to extension tubing (see Figure 2) into the threaded
at least 8 % and preferably 10 %. Up to an air hole beneath valve A on the underside of the cover
content of 6 % the scale of the gauge shall be assembly and clamp the cover assembly into place,
graduated with divisions every 0.1 % air content. care being taken to ensure that there is a good
6.2.4 Calibration cylinder. A hollow cylindrical pressure seal between cover and container. Close
measure of brass or other non-corrodible metal the main air valve and open valves A and B. Add
water through valve A until all trapped air has been
having a capacity of approximately 0.3 L, which may
expelled through valve B. Pump air into the air
be integral with the cover assembly.
chamber until the pressure reaches the indicated
6.2.5 Transparent plate. A rigid transparent plate, initial pressure line. After allowing a few seconds for
suitable for use as a closure for the container. the compressed air to cool to ambient temperature,
6.2.6 Air pump. A hand pressure pump such as a stabilize the hand on the pressure gauge at the
bicycle tyre pump with a lead facilitating connection initial pressure line by further pumping in or
to the non-return air inlet valve on the cover bleeding off air as necessary. During this process
assembly. lightly tap the gauge and close valve B.
6.2.7 Scoop, as described in 3.1 of Remove water from the apparatus to the calibration
BS 1881-101:1983. cylinder in just sufficient quantity to fill it full or up
to a predetermined line marked on it, then
6.2.8 Compacting bar or vibrator. Compacting bar
determine the mass of water displaced, m3, by
made out of straight steel bar weighing on the balance.
weighing 1.8 kg, 380 mm long and having a
ramming face 25 mm square, or a vibrating hammer
or table suitable for compacting the concrete in
accordance with 6.5.

6 © BSI 12-1998
 BS 1881-106:1983
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Figure 2 — Method B apparatus

Depending upon the particular apparatus design, 6.4 Aggregate correction factor
control the flow of water either by opening valve A 6.4.1 General. The aggregate correction factor will
and using the main air valve to control flow, or by vary with different aggregates and although
opening the main air valve and using valve A to ordinarily it will remain reasonably constant for a
control flow. Then release the pressure in the particular aggregate an occasional check is
container by opening valve B (if the apparatus recommended. The aggregate correction factor can
employs an auxiliary tube for filling the calibration be determined only by test as it is not directly
cylinder, open valve A so that the tube is drained related to the water absorption of the particles.
back into the container, or alternatively if the
calibration cylinder is an integral part of the cover 6.4.2 Aggregate sample size. Determine the
assembly close valve A immediately after filling the aggregate correction factor by applying the
calibration vessel and leave it closed until the test operating pressure on a combined sample of the
has been completed). The volume of air in the coarse and fine aggregates in the approximate
container is now equal to the volume of the amounts, proportions and moisture conditions that
displaced water; close all valves, pump air into the exist in the concrete sample. Obtain the sample of
air chamber until the pressure reaches the initial aggregates either by washing the cement through
pressure line, and then open the main air valve. The a 150 µm BS 410 sieve from the concrete sample
air content indicated by the pressure gauge tested for air content or by using a combined sample
corresponds to the percentage of air, A1, determined of fine and coarse aggregate similar to that used in
to be in the container, where A1 = m3/m2 × 100 %. If the concrete. In the latter case calculate the masses
two or more determinations show the same of fine and coarse aggregates to be used, mf and mc
variation from the correct air content, reset the respectively, as follows:
hand on the pressure gauge to the correct air mf = VoDpf
content and repeat the test until the gauge reading
mc = VoDpc
corresponds to the calibrated air content
within 0.1 % air content.
6.3

© BSI 12-1998 7
 BS 1881-106:1983

where 6.5 Compaction of the concrete

6.5.1 General. Place the sample of concrete to be
Pf and Pc are the proportions of fine and coarse tested in the container in such a way as to remove as
aggregates, respectively, expressed as much entrapped air as possible (without
fractions by mass of the total concrete mix significantly reducing the amount of entrained air,
(aggregates, cement and water); if present) and to produce full compaction of the
Vo is the capacity of the container (in m3) concrete with neither excessive segregation nor
determined as described in 6.3.2; laitance. For this purpose, by means of the scoop,
place the concrete in the container in three layers
D is the density of the concrete to be tested
approximately equal in depth and compact each
(in kg/m3), determined in accordance with
layer by using either the compacting bar or the
BS 1881-107 or calculated from the known
vibrator in the manner described in 6.5.2 or 6.5.3. If
properties and densities of the materials
the concrete has a slump greater than
and the nominal air content.
Licensed Copy: lbocvzr lbocvzr, University of Loughborough, 22 March 2004, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

approximately 75 mm, do not use vibration.

6.4.3 Filling the container. Partially fill the The quantity of material used in the final layer shall
container of the apparatus with water and introduce be, as nearly as possible, just sufficient to fill the
the combined sample of aggregate in small container without having to remove excess material.
scoopfuls. This shall be done in such a manner as to A small quantity of additional concrete may be
entrap as little air as possible. added if necessary and further compacted in order
If necessary add additional water to inundate all of to just fill the container, but the removal of excess
the aggregate. After the addition of each scoopful material should be avoided.
remove any foam promptly and stir the aggregate 6.5.2 Compacting with compacting bar. When
with the compacting bar and tap the container with compacting each layer with the compacting bar,
the mallet to release any entrapped air. distribute the strokes of the compacting bar in a
6.4.4 Determination of aggregate correction factor. uniform manner over the cross section of the
When all the aggregate has been placed in the container, and ensure that the compacting bar does
container wipe clean the flanges of the container not penetrate significantly any previous layer nor
and the cover assembly thoroughly and clamp the forcibly strike the bottom of the container when
cover assembly into position so that a pressure-tight compacting the first layer. The number of strokes
seal is obtained. Close the main air valve and open per layer required to produce full compaction will
valves A and B. Using the rubber syringe, inject depend upon the consistence of the concrete but in
water through either valve A or valve B until water no case shall the concrete be subjected to fewer
emerges from the other valve. Tap the apparatus than 25 strokes per layer. In order to remove
lightly with the mallet until all entrapped air is pockets of entrapped air but not the entrained air,
expelled from this same valve. Remove a volume of after compaction of each layer tap the sides of the
water from the container approximately equivalent container smartly with the mallet until large
to the volume of air that would be contained in a bubbles of air cease to appear on the surface and
typical concrete sample of a size equal to the volume depressions left by the compacting bar are removed.
of the container. Remove the water in the apparatus Record the number of strokes.
in the manner described in 6.3.2 for the calibration 6.5.3 Compacting with vibrator. When compacting
test. Complete the test using the procedure each layer by means of the vibrating hammer or
described in 6.6. table use applied vibration of the minimum
The aggregate correction factor, G, is equal to the duration necessary to achieve full compaction of the
reading on the air content scale minus the volume of concrete. Over-vibration may cause excessive
water removed from the container expressed as a segregation and laitance or loss of entrained air, if
percentage of the capacity of the container. present. The required duration of vibration will
depend upon the consistence of the concrete and the
effectiveness of the vibrator and vibration shall
cease as soon as the surface of the concrete becomes
relatively smooth and has a glazed appearance.
Record the duration of vibration.

8 © BSI 12-1998
 BS 1881-106:1983

6.6 Procedure. Wipe the flanges of the container where

and of the cover assembly thoroughly clean. Clamp
the cover assembly in place, care being taken to Vm is the absolute volume of the ingredients of
ensure that there is a good pressure seal between the mortar fraction (i.e. cement, water and
the cover and the container. Close the main air valve fine aggregate) of the concrete, air free, as
and open valve A and valve B. Using a rubber determined from the original batch masses
syringe, inject water through either valve A or (in m3);
valve B until water emerges from the other valve. Vc is the absolute volume of the ingredients of
Lightly tap the apparatus with the mallet until all the concrete, air free, as determined from
entrapped air is expelled from this same valve. the original batch masses (in m3).
Close the air bleeder valve on the air chamber and
pump air into the air chamber until the hand on the Express the air content as a percentage to the
pressure gauge is on the initial pressure line. After nearest 0.1 %.
Licensed Copy: lbocvzr lbocvzr, University of Loughborough, 22 March 2004, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

allowing a few seconds for the compressed air to cool 7.3 Precision. Precision data are given in Table 1.
to ambient temperature stabilize the hand on the These apply to air content measurements made by
pressure gauge at the initial pressure line by method A on concrete taken from the same sample
further pumping in or bleeding off air as necessary. when each test result is obtained from a single air
During this process lightly tap the gauge. Close both content determination
valve A and valve B and then open the main air Table 1 — Precision data for air content
valve. Tap the sides of the container sharply.
measurements
Lightly tap the pressure gauge to stabilize it and
then the reading of the pressure gauge is equal to Repeatability Reproducibility
Level
conditions conditions
the apparent percentage of air, A. Open valves A
and B in order to release the pressure before the sr r sR R
cover assembly is removed. % % % % %
7 Calculation and expression of results 5.6 0.16 0.4 0.45 1.3
NOTE 1 The precision data were determined as part of an
7.1 Air content of the sample tested. Calculate experiment carried out in 1987 in which precision data were
the air content of the concrete in the container, Ac, obtained for several of the tests described in BS 1881. The
from the formula: experiment involved 16 operators. The concretes were made
using an ordinary Portland cement, Thames Valley sand, and
Ac = A1 – G Thames Valley 10 mm and 20 mm coarse aggregates.
where NOTE 2 The difference between two tests results from the
same sample by one operator using the same apparatus within
the shortest feasible time interval will exceed the repeatability
A1 is the apparent air content of the sample value r on average not more than once in 20 cases in the normal
and correct operation of the method.
tested, to the nearest 0.1 % (see 5.6 and 6.6); NOTE 3 Test results on the same sample obtained within the
G is the aggregate correction factor to the shortest feasible time interval by two operators each using
their own apparatus will differ by the reproducibility value R
nearest 0.1 % (see 5.4.4 and 6.4.4). on average not more than once in 20 cases in the normal and
correct operation of the method.
Express the air content as a percentage to the NOTE 4 For further information on precision, and for
nearest 0.1 %. definitions of the statistical terms used in connection with
precision, see BS 5497-1.
7.2 Air content of the mortar fraction. If
required, calculate the air content of the mortar
8 Report
fraction of the concrete, Am, from the formula:
8.1 General. The report shall affirm that the air
100Ac Vc
Am = ---------------------------------------------------------- content was determined in accordance with this
100V m + A c ( Vc – V m ) Part of this British Standard. The report shall state
whether or not a certificate of sampling is available.
If available, a copy of the certificate shall be
provided.
8.2 Information to be included in the test
report
8.2.1 Mandatory information. The following
information shall be included in the test report:

© BSI 12-1998 9
 BS 1881-106:1983

a) date, time and place of sampling and sample

identity number;
b) time and place of test;
c) type of apparatus used (method A or B);
d) date of latest calibration check;
e) aggregate correction factor;
f) method of compaction (by hand or vibration)
including type of equipment used and the number
of strokes of the compacting bar or the duration of
vibration;
g) measured air content of sample tested;
h) name of person carrying out test.
Licensed Copy: lbocvzr lbocvzr, University of Loughborough, 22 March 2004, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

8.2.2 Optional information. If requested the

following information shall be included in the test
report:
a) name of project and place where concrete used;
b) name of supplier and source of concrete;
c) date and time of production of concrete or
delivery to site;
d) specification of concrete mix (e.g. strength
grade and nominal air content);
e) temperature of the concrete at the time of
sampling;
f) density of the concrete;
g) workability of the concrete;
h) calculated air content of mortar fraction of the
concrete.

10 © BSI 12-1998
 BS 1881-106:1983

Publications referred to

BS 410, Specification for test sieves.

BS 1881, Testing concrete.
BS 1881-101, Method of sampling fresh concrete on site.
BS 1881-102, Method for determination of slump1).
BS 1881-103, Method for determination of compacting factor1).
BS 1881-104, Method for determination of Vebe time1).
BS 1881-107, Method for determination of density of compacted fresh concrete.
BS 1881-125, Methods for mixing and sampling fresh concrete in the laboratory.
BS 3388, Forks, shovels and spades.
BS 5328, Methods for specifying concrete, including ready-mixed concrete.
BS 5497, Precision of test methods1).
Licensed Copy: lbocvzr lbocvzr, University of Loughborough, 22 March 2004, Uncontrolled Copy, (c) BSI

BS 5497-1, Guide for the determination of repeatability and reproducibility for a standard test method.
ISO 4848, Concrete – Determination of air content of freshly mixed concrete – Pressure method1).

1) Referred to in the foreword only.

© BSI 12-1998
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