Air Content

UKAS Accredited

Standard(s): BS EN 12350-7:2019
Site Test
Lab Test
The air content test measures the amount of entrained air within freshly mixed concrete. Air-entrained concrete intentionally contains microscopic air bubbles distributed throughout the mix. Measuring the air content ensures the concrete has the correct level of air to achieve the desired durability and performance.

Enquire about this test

The Process

A sample of fresh concrete is placed into a calibrated air meter in layers and compacted to remove large voids. The equipment is then sealed and pressurised, allowing the device to measure the volume of air within the concrete. The resulting reading provides the percentage of air present in the mix.

The Reason

Air entrainment improves concrete durability by creating tiny air voids that allow water to expand when it freezes. Without sufficient air content, concrete exposed to freezing and thawing conditions may crack or deteriorate over time. Testing confirms the mix meets the specified air content requirements.

The Application

Air content testing is commonly performed on site during concrete delivery or placement. It is particularly important for structures exposed to freeze–thaw cycles, de-icing salts, or harsh environmental conditions. The test helps verify that the supplied concrete meets specification before it is placed in structural elements such as pavements, bridge decks, and external slabs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Amtest provide documentation of the test results?

Yes. Amtest provides clear test records and reports confirming the measured air content, helping contractors and engineers demonstrate compliance with project specifications.

View more Concrete testing services:

View all

Air Content

Air content test for air-entrained concrete.
BS EN 12350-7:2019
Concrete
UKAS Accredited
Lab Test
Site Test
View Test

Pull Out Test

Evaluates the strength and security of fixings by applying tension to the desired load level.
Concrete
Lab Test
Site Test
View Test

Polypropylene Fibres

Measures density of steel, polypropylene, or glass fibers by washing and weighing sample.
BS EN 14488-7 & BS EN 14721
Concrete
Lab Test
Site Test
View Test

Residual Flexural Tensile Strength (RFTS) of Concrete Beams

Flexural strength tested through application of load through upper and lower roller.
BS EN 12390‑5, BS EN 14651: 2005
Concrete
Lab Test
View Test

Young's Modulus

Young’s Modulus is a measure of a material’s stiffness, indicating how much it will deform under a given stress.
Concrete
Lab Test
View Test

Chloride Migration

This procedure determines the chloride migration using non-steady-state experiments.
NT BUILD 492.1999-11
Concrete
UKAS Accredited
Lab Test
Site Test
View Test

Water Permeability

Measures water penetration depth under pressure in concrete samples.
EN 12390-8
Concrete
Lab Test
View Test

Slump / Flow / Slump-Flow

Tests include slump, flow table, degree of compactability, setting time, and air content.
BS EN 12350-2, BS EN 12350-5, BS EN 12350-10
Concrete
UKAS Accredited
Lab Test
Site Test
View Test

Compressive Strength - Cylinders

Cores are taken and tested to assess concrete strength.
BS EN 12504-1:2019
Concrete
Lab Test
Site Test
View Test

Compressive Strength - Cubes

Evaluates concrete’s load-bearing capacity, ensuring compliance with construction standards and structural integrity.
BS EN 12390-1:2021, BS EN 12390-2:2019, BS EN 12390-3:2019
Concrete
UKAS Accredited
Lab Test
View Test
Site Test
Lab Test
Air Content

At Amtest UK, we provide expert air content testing to ensure the performance and durability of air-entrained concrete. This critical test evaluates the volume of air voids within fresh concrete, a key factor for achieving freeze-thaw resistance and enhanced workability.

What is Air Content Testing?

Air content testing, conducted in accordance with BS EN 12350-7, measures the air content in fresh concrete. Air-entrained concrete is specifically designed with controlled air voids to improve durability under challenging environmental conditions, such as frost and de-icing salts. Ensuring the correct air content is crucial for meeting project specifications and achieving long-term structural integrity.

Applications of Air Content Testing

  • Freeze-Thaw Durability: Ensures concrete can withstand cycles of freezing and thawing, critical for outdoor and exposed structures.
  • Optimised Mix Design: Verifies that the air-entraining agent is performing as expected, achieving the desired workability and strength balance.
  • Compliance: Confirms that the concrete mix complies with project specifications and regulatory standards.

Partner with Amtest UK

Choosing Amtest UK means you are partnering with a leader in construction materials testing. Whether you are working on infrastructure, commercial developments, or bespoke projects, we are here to help you ensure the quality and performance of your concrete. Contact us today to schedule your air content testing or to learn more about our comprehensive range of concrete testing services.

Make Amtest UK your first choice for air content testing—trusted by professionals, proven by results.

BS EN 12350-7:2019