How is the suitability of water for concrete verified?

By conducting chemical tests as per IS 3025 parts and comparing the results against permissible limits in IS 456 Table 1.

Which part of IS 3025 is used to test chlorides?

Part 32 is used for chloride testing, ensuring levels stay below 500 mg/l for RCC work.

What is the procedure for testing pH of water?

Electrometric method using a pH meter as per IS 3025 Part 11; pH must not be less than 6.0 for concrete.

IS 3025

: 1993

Code of Practice for Use of Water in Concrete and Masonry

CurrentFrequently UsedTesting MethodEnvironmental · Masonry and Bricks

Archive.org BIS Portal Google

IS 3025 is a comprehensive, multi-part standard detailing the physical and chemical testing methods for water and wastewater. In civil engineering, its various parts are primarily used to test the suitability of mixing and curing water for concrete, ensuring impurities like chlorides and sulphates do not exceed limits defined in IS 456.

Provides guidelines for the quality of water to be used in mixing and curing concrete and mortar.

Quick Reference Values

permissible organic solids for concrete200 mg/l

permissible inorganic solids for concrete3000 mg/l

permissible sulphates for concrete400 mg/l

permissible chlorides for rcc500 mg/l

permissible suspended matter2000 mg/l

minimum pH for concrete water6.0

Practical Notes

When using borewell water or water from unverified sources for construction, it must be chemically tested using IS 3025 methods before approval.

Pay special attention to Chloride (Part 32) and Sulphate (Part 24) tests, as excessive levels lead to rapid reinforcement corrosion and concrete degradation.

Potable water is generally considered fit for concrete mixing and does not typically require extensive IS 3025 testing.