: Procedures for finishing the top surface and clearly identifying each specimen for tracking.
Dimensions are verified to ensure they meet tolerance standards.
Once cured, the specimens must be transported to the testing machine (such as a compression testing rig) with care to avoid any impact or damage that could compromise the test results.
To prevent moisture loss from the exposed top surface, the moulds must be covered with a plastic sheet, steel plate, or wet burlap. They must be protected from direct sunlight, wind, and mechanical vibrations (e.g., from heavy site traffic). Demoulding bs en 12390-2:2019
Store the specimens in a moist chamber or room maintained at a temperature of 20°C ± 2°C with a relative humidity of ≥ 95% .
Curing is arguably the most critical phase after casting. The concrete must be kept moist and at a controlled temperature to allow the proper hydration reactions to occur, which develop its strength. The standard specifies that specimens should be kept in a curing environment at a temperature of , typically in a water curing tank or a fog room. They should be covered initially to prevent surface evaporation and stored away from direct heat or cold. Proper curing is non-negotiable; it directly influences the reliability of the strength test.
Compaction is arguably the most critical step in specimen preparation, as improper compaction can significantly underestimate concrete strength. The standard specifies different compaction procedures depending on the specimen dimensions. : Procedures for finishing the top surface and
The process begins with obtaining a representative sample of fresh concrete according to EN 12309-1. Once the sample is ready, the molds are prepared by applying a thin film of non-reactive release agent to the internal surfaces.
For civil engineers, quality control personnel, laboratory professionals, and contractors alike, a thorough understanding and faithful implementation of BS EN 12390-2:2019 is to ensuring that concrete structures perform as intended – safely, durably, and reliably – for their entire service life.
The concrete must be filled in layers to ensure full density without segregation. Acceptable compaction methods include: To prevent moisture loss from the exposed top
This is sometimes used for – initial slow heat development followed by standard curing. The standard allows this, but the precise regime must be agreed between the specifier and the tester.
The standard mandates that moulds must be rigid, non-absorbent, and dimensionally accurate to within specified tolerances. For cubes, the most common specimen in the UK, the internal dimensions must be precise. Sampling fresh concrete must follow BS EN 12350-1, ensuring a representative batch.
The BS EN 12390-2:2019 standard is a critical document for civil engineers, laboratory technicians, and construction professionals involved in concrete quality control. This European Standard specifies the methods for making and curing test specimens for strength tests on hardened concrete. Compliance with this standard ensures that concrete strength results are accurate, repeatable, and representative of the material's true potential. Understanding the Significance of the Standard