Title: Testing pH of Concrete

Author(s): Jennifer A. Grubb, Hemant S. Limaye, and Ashok M. Kakade

Publication: Concrete International

Volume: 29

Issue: 4

Appears on pages(s): 78-83

Keywords: adhesive; flooring; pH; slabs; test procedure

DOI:

Date: 4/1/2007

Abstract:
Adhesives used to install flooring can be damaged when applied to substrates with pH values exceeding 9, and many flooring manufacturers won’t issue a warranty unless the pH has been verified to be within acceptable ranges. Although ASTM F 710-05 indicates a procedure to test concrete floors for alkalinity, the procedure is not well defined, and it’s often difficult to accurately interpret the results. Following a discussion of an investigation of the major variables influencing pH test results, alternate standard procedures are proposed for use in the field and in the lab.