ASTM C1218

Standard Test Method for Water-Soluble Chloride in Mortar and Concrete

Applicability:

ASTM C1218 is a standard test method used to determine the water-soluble chloride content in mortar and concrete. This is crucial because water-soluble chlorides can initiate or accelerate the corrosion of embedded metals like steel reinforcement in concrete structures. ASTM C1218 is used in both new construction and for evaluating existing structures to assess the potential for corrosion and to monitor the effectiveness of corrosion mitigation strategies.

Purpose: The primary purpose of ASTM C1218 is to quantify the amount of chloride ions that are readily dissolved in water within a concrete or mortar sample. High concentrations of water-soluble chlorides can lead to corrosion of steel reinforcement in concrete, weakening the structure over time.