How to Measure Air in Concrete

Air is important in freshly mixed concrete. The proper amount of air bubbles provides better workability while mixing and a better freeze-and-thaw cycle resistance when set. Two ways of measuring the air content are with a pressure-type "B" meter or with a volumetric air meter, both which require equipment normally beyond the reach of a homeowner. For someone mixing concrete for a home project, a simple air indicator kit is adequate and is available for less than $50 at the time of publication.

Things You'll Need

• Air indicator kit
• Isopropyl alcohol

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Place the sample size of fresh concrete as required by the kit instructions into the cup.

   • 2

     Place the cup into the vial and fill the vial with alcohol.

   • 3

     Put the lid on the vial and shake vigorously.

   • 4

     Measure the percentage the alcohol drops in the vial by reading the graduation marks on the vial side.

   • 5

     Compare the percentage the alcohol dropped with the chart in the instruction manual to determine the amount of air in the concrete.