This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles

for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

Designation: E3134 − 17

Standard Specification for

Transportation Tunnel Structural Components and Passive
Fire Protection Systems1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3134; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

INTRODUCTION

Fire poses a serious threat to the structural stability of tunnels as shown by real fires in tunnels over
the last decade. The damage is a serious threat to life safety and results in costly repairs and lost
service time. The damage is mitigated with heat-resistant concrete and passive fire-resistive materials
and systems. The result is limited spalling of concrete, limited structural damage of the concrete via
cracks to the cold zone, and limited temperature increases of the reinforcing steel. Further, the
fire-resistive methods employed are also optionally evaluated against common environmental
exposures, which could adversely affect the performance or fire-resistance rating.

1. Scope applied to the anchor. This requirement results in a single

1.1 This specification is applicable to the fire resistance of anchor being tested or multiple anchors being tested. If
concrete tunnel linings, fire-resistive materials, and structural multiple anchors are required to be tested, then each shall be
tunnel members. tested under its maximum load.
1.2 Concrete mix design, tunnel linings, and passive fire 1.6 This specification requires testing of both horizontal and
protection methods are specific to each tunnel project. There- vertical orientations. For fire-resistive materials, it is generally
fore results of the spalling test are only valid for the specific accepted that the horizontal orientation represents the worst
materials and systems employed during each test, notwith- case test scenario.
standing maximum and minimum limitations.
1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
1.3 Tunnels are potentially exposed to ground water, even
standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
those passing through elevated terrain, such as mountains, road
conversions to inch-pound units that are provided for informa-
salt, and maintenance surface washing. Consideration shall be
given to potential adverse effects that result, such as material tion only and are not considered standard.
degradation due to these exposures. 1.8 This standard is used to measure and describe the
1.4 Movement joints shall be considered and their impact on response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and
the overall fire resistance shall be assessed by testing. Tests flame under controlled conditions, but does not, by itself,
shall be conducted as a system. incorporate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk
1.5 This specification does not address mechanical attach- assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under
ment methods for equipment due to the vast variety of possible actual fire conditions.
methods and loads. However, consideration shall be given to 1.9 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safe-
methods that appreciably affect the concrete temperature dur- guards for personnel and property shall be employed in
ing the heating conditions. Consideration shall be given to a conducting these tests.
second test conducted with the attachment to evaluate the
effect. The attachment test shall include the largest diameter 1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of the
anchor, the deepest installed anchor, and the largest load safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
1
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E05 on Fire mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Standards and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E05.11 on Fire 1.11 This international standard was developed in accor-
Resistance.
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2017. Published March 2018. DOI: 10.1520/ dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
E3134-17. ization established in the Decision on Principles for the

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

1
 E3134 − 17
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- 4.1.2.3 Tunnel Interior Surface Washing assesses the effects
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical of repeated washing on concrete tunnel lining and fire-resistive
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. materials.
4.1.2.4 Spalling Test—The Spalling Test is intended to
2. Referenced Documents assess the spalling behavior of concrete mix designs specific to
2.1 ASTM Standards:2 tunnel project specification. The test assesses the reinforcing
C109 Test Method for Compressive Strength of Hydraulic steel by means of temperature and temperature of other critical
Cement Mortars (Using 2-in. or [50-mm] Cube Speci- locations, such as post tension sleeves.
mens) 4.1.2.5 Fire-Resistive Material Test—The Fire-Resistive
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Material Test is intended for materials whose purpose is to
Building Materials protect the concrete by limiting the temperature at the interface
E119 Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction with the concrete and limiting reinforcing steel temperatures
and Materials within the concrete.
E176 Terminology of Fire Standards 4.1.3 Fire-Resistive Joint Test—When movement joints are
E1966 Test Method for Fire-Resistive Joint Systems used as part of the tunnel construction, they shall be assessed
G85 Practice for Modified Salt Spray (Fog) Testing for fire resistance and the ability to undergo movement without
2.2 Other Standard:3 reducing the fire rating.
2008-Efectis-R0695 Fire testing procedure for concrete tun-
nel linings 5. Significance and Use
3. Terminology 5.1 The test methods described in this specification are used
to determine the performance of tunnel construction elements
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms found in this with respect to exposure to a standard time-temperature fire
specification, refer to Terminology E176. test. The performance of the elements is dependent upon the
4. Summary of Test Method specific assembly of materials tested.

4.1 Different fire protection approaches are chosen in the 5.2 The test exposes a specimen to the selected fire
design and construction of tunnels. The approaches addressed exposure, as described in this specification, controlled to
in this specification are limited to concrete mix design and achieve specified temperatures throughout a specified time
fire-resistive materials, and the potential impact of environ- period.
mental exposures (optional). A minimum of one fire test is 5.3 The test standard provides for the following:
required for each assembly, configuration, and orientation. For 5.3.1 Flame Spread—Comparative measurements of flame
cases where the concrete mix design is intended to address the spread and smoke developed in accordance with Test Method
fire load independent of fire-resistive materials, the Spalling E84.
Test in accordance with 9.1 is applicable. For cases where 5.3.2 Environmental Considerations—Potential effects on
standard or general concrete design mix is intended and the fire resistance from environmental conditions expected
protected by fire-resistive materials, the Fire-Resistive Material within a transportation tunnel.
Test is applicable. For cases where both the concrete design 5.3.3 Spalling—Susceptibility of concrete design mixes to
mix and fire-resistive materials are combined to address the fire spalling when exposed to the fire exposure, as described in this
load, both test criteria are applicable but can be accomplished specification.
with one fire test for each assembly, configuration, and
5.3.4 Transmission of Heat—The ability to limit tempera-
orientation.
tures at critical locations such as reinforcing steel and interface
4.1.1 Surface Burning Test:
of fire-resistive materials and concrete.
4.1.1.1 Flame Spread Index (FSI) and Smoke Developed
5.3.5 Fire-Resistive Joints—The ability to maintain fire
Index (SDI) in accordance with Test Method E84 are provided
resistance continuity when the assembly requires a joint to
for fire-resistive materials.
mitigate the effects of movement.
4.1.2 Environmental Tests (Optional):
4.1.2.1 Ground Water Test is a means to assess the effect of 5.4 The test standard does not provide the following:
water and moisture on concrete tunnel lining and fire-resistive 5.4.1 Evaluation of active fire protection methods or sys-
materials. tems or other techniques not appropriate for evaluation by this
4.1.2.2 Road Salt Test assesses the effect of salt on concrete specification.
tunnel lining and fire-resistive materials. 5.4.2 Information as to performance of specimens con-
structed with components or lengths other than those tested.
2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
5.4.3 Evaluation of the degree by which the specimen
contact ASTM Customer Service at [email protected]. For Annual Book of ASTM contributes to the fire hazard by generation of smoke, toxic
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on gases, or other products of combustion.
the ASTM website.
3
5.4.4 Measurement of the degree of control or limitation of
Available from efectis nederland, P.O. Box 554, 2665 ZN Bleiswijk, Brand-
puntlaan Zuid 16, 2665 NZ Bleiswijk, The Netherlands, http://efectis.com/wp- the passage of smoke or products of combustion through the
content/uploads/2016/07/RWSProcedureFireProtectionforTunnels.pdf. specimen.

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 E3134 − 17
6. Flame Spread TABLE 2 Tunnel Fire Test Cool Down,
Time Interval Versus Temperature Decrease
6.1 Fire-resistive materials shall be tested in accordance
Furnace Temperature [°C (°F)]
with Test Method E84. The FSI shall be ≤25 and SDI ≤50. Added Time (min) from
Decrease from Time of
Time of Desired Rating Period
Desired Rating Period
7. Environmental Tests +10 –100 (–180)
+20 –200 (–360)
7.1 Environmental tests shall be conducted when the test +30 –300 (–540)
sponsor, design professional, or authority having jurisdiction +40 –400 (–720)
has a concern about the impact on fire resistance from the +50 –500 (–900)
+60 –600 (–1080)
presence of water, road salt, or repeated surface washing, or +70 –700 (–1260)
combinations thereof. The environmental tests are performed +80 –800 (–1440)
+90 –900 (–1620)
in advance of the fire testing to evaluate environmental impact. +100 –1000 (–1800)
Included are ground water test, road salt test, and tunnel
interior surface washing. For more details on the environmen-
tal tests, see Appendix X1. 8.2.3 For samples in the horizontal orientation, place the
junction of the thermocouple 305 mm (12.0 in.) away from the
8. Control of Fire Tests for Fire Resistive Materials exposed face of the sample.
8.1 Time-Temperature Curve: 8.2.4 For samples in the vertical orientation, place the
8.1.1 The fire exposure shall be controlled to conform to the junction of the thermocouple 152 mm (6.0 in.) away from the
modified Rijkswaterstaat (RWS) curve, taken from 2008- exposed face of the sample.
Efectis-R0695, presented in Tables 1 and 2, and as shown in 8.2.5 Read and record the temperature at intervals not
Fig. 1. exceeding 1 min.
8.1.2 As an option, an alternate time-temperature curve is 8.2.6 The accuracy of the furnace control shall be such that
presented in Annex A1. The alternative time-temperature curve the area under the temperature-time curve, obtained by aver-
presented incorporates the highest temperatures of the various aging the results from the furnace thermocouple readings, is
furnace fire exposures known at the time this document was within 15 % of the corresponding area under the standard
written. The intent is to provide a worst case test to allow for temperature-time curve presented in Tables 1 and 2, and as
multiple approvals from one test. shown in Fig. 1, for the time period between 5 and 10 min,
8.1.3 The samples shall undergo a cool down period by 10 % for the time period between 10 and 30 min and 5 % from
decreasing the furnace temperature by 10 °C (18 °F) per 30 min to the end of the test.
minute for 100 min, see Table 2. NOTE 1—The spalling of concrete will expose new, cold concrete
surfaces that will increase the need for energy input in order to maintain
8.2 Furnace Temperature: furnace control within tolerance.
8.2.1 The temperature fixed by the curve shall be the
8.3 Furnace Pressure:
average temperature obtained from the readings of thermo-
8.3.1 Measure the differential pressure between the exposed
couples symmetrically distributed within the test furnace to
and unexposed surfaces of the test assembly. The pressure shall
show the temperature near all parts of the assembly. Use a
be measured using a tee-shaped probe, or a tube probe, as
minimum of three thermocouples, with no fewer than five
shown in Fig. 2, manufactured from stainless steel, or other
thermocouples per 9.3 m2 (100 ft2) of exposed floor surface,
suitable material.
and no fewer than nine thermocouples per 9.3 m2 (100 ft2) of
8.3.2 Measure the pressure by means of a manometer or
exposed wall surface.
equivalent transducer. The manometer or transducer shall be
8.2.2 The furnace thermocouples shall be Type B, platinum-
capable of reading 2.5-Pa (0.01-in. H2O) increments with a
rhodium, 0.81 mm (0.032-in.) wire, exposed junction thermo-
measurement precision of 1.25 Pa (0.005 in. H2O).
couples. One conductor contains 30 % rhodium and the other
8.3.3 Horizontal Specimen—The required differential pres-
conductor contains 6 % rhodium.
sure plane shall be located within the furnace 305 mm (12 in.)
below the specimen.
8.3.4 Vertical Specimen—The required differential pressure
TABLE 1 Tunnel Fire Test Time-Temperature Curve for Control of plane shall be located within the furnace at the mid-height of
Fire Tests the specimen.
Time (min) Temperature [°C (°F)] 8.3.5 Following the first 5 min of the test, the pressure shall
0 20 (68) be controlled at below 50 Pa (0.2 in. H2O), then following the
3 891 (1635)
5 1141 (2085) first 10 min, the pressure shall be controlled at 20 6 4 Pa (0.08
10 1199 (2190) 6 0.016 in. H2O).
30 1299 (2370)
60 1349 (2460) NOTE 2—It is recognized that the dynamic nature of the furnace limits
90 1299 (2370) the ability of pressure control within the furnace, so there is a greater
$120 1199 (2190) tolerance for the first 10 min of startup. However, the goal is to achieve a
stable pressure of 20 Pa as quickly as possible.

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 E3134 − 17

FIG. 1 Tunnel Fire Test Time-Temperature

9. Test Specimen for Fire Resistive Materials orientation such that the bottom, formwork side, is exposed to
9.1 Spalling Test: the furnace conditions. Wall specimens shall be cast vertically.
9.1.1 The orientation of the specimen for the test is based on 9.1.5.2 Thermocouples for internal measurement of steel
the element it represents. Walls shall be tested vertically and and the concrete temperature gradient shall be placed in the
ceilings tested horizontally. If the specimen represents both specimen prior to casting of concrete. Care must be taken to
vertical and horizontal application, it shall be tested in both assure that the locations are not altered during casting.
orientations. 9.1.5.3 There shall be a minimum of nine thermocouples
9.1.2 The concrete mix design, casting, and finishing shall positioned within the slab, evenly distributed on the reinforcing
be to the sponsor’s specifications or subject to certification steel closest to the heating conditions. If the slab is protected
listing. This includes aggregate type and size, additives, added with fire-resistive material on the exposed face, a minimum of
fibers, other fillers, cement type and quantity, water cement nine additional thermocouples shall be positioned and evenly
ratio, etc., and application and bonding, fastening, attachment,
distributed at the fire-resistive material and concrete interface,
etc., of external fire-resistive materials.
to record the concrete surface temperature. Care must be taken
9.1.3 Reinforcement type, size, spacing, location, minimum
with the application of the thermocouples so casting of the
concrete cover, etc., shall be to the sponsor’s specifications or
subject to certification listing. concrete or installation of the fire-resistive material does not
9.1.4 The sample shall be large enough to avoid edge lead to inadequate contact of the thermocouple junction with
effects. At a minimum, the horizontal sample size shall expose the concrete surface. If the system has joints, an additional five
16.75 m2 (180 ft2) with no area dimension less than 3050 mm thermocouples shall be located behind the joints. If post-
(10 ft). Vertical sample size shall expose 9.3 m2 (100 ft2) with tensioning is used for compressive loading, one thermocouple
no area dimension less than 2750 mm (9 ft). Sample thickness shall be located at the center of each post-tensioning sleeve
shall be the actual thickness in the intended applications but included with the concrete casting, positioned closest to the
limited to 610 mm (24 in.). heating condition. The thermocouples shall be type-K,
9.1.5 Preparation: chromel-alumel and shall be firmly affixed so as to not move
9.1.5.1 Concrete casting shall be the intended end-use during the casting. The thermocouples shall be capable of
condition including type of formwork and orientation. Speci- being cast into the concrete without disturbing their operation.
mens for ceiling locations shall be cast in a horizontal Route the thermocouple leads parallel to the isothermal planes

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 E3134 − 17

FIG. 2 Pressure Sensing Probe

for a distance of 150 mm (6 in.) from the measuring junction 9.1.6 Any externally applied fire-resistive material shall be
to minimize error associated with cooling from the leads. applied in the same manner as it is in the intended end-use
9.1.5.4 Compressive loading shall be accomplished with application. This includes surface preparation, attachments,
post-tensioning or hydraulic jacks bearing against a reaction application orientation, thickness, and joints.
frame. If post-tensioning is used, sleeves shall be installed prior
to casting the concrete. Exact positioning of the sleeves is 9.2 Fire-Resistive Material Test:
important and consideration shall be given to potential loss of 9.2.1 Fire-resistive material is not specific to a single
load due to thermal expansion of the steel. The compressive system; therefore, qualification for application over different
load and eccentricity shall be equal to the design value as systems is necessary. A standardized concrete slab is used for
provided by the tunnel lining design engineer. fire-resistive material qualification.

5
 E3134 − 17
9.2.2 The standardized concrete slab shall be cast with 9.2.12 Thickness and density of the fire-resistive materials
normal weight, 27.6-N/mm2 (4000-psi) strength concrete. At a shall be measured and reported. Density shall be determined at
minimum, the horizontal sample size shall expose 16.75 m2 the nominal moisture content equilibrium condition.
(180 ft2) with no area dimension less than 3050 mm (10 ft). 9.3 Protection and Conditioning of the Test Specimen—The
Vertical sample size shall expose 9.3 m2 (100 ft2) with no area test specimen shall be protected and conditioned in accordance
dimension less than 2750 mm (9 ft), with a thickness of 6 in. with requirements of Test Methods E119.
(150 mm).
9.2.3 The standardized concrete slab shall be reinforced 10. Conduct of Test
with 10M, nominal diameter 11.3 mm, (No. 4, nominal
diameter 1⁄2 in.) reinforcing steel, spaced 305 mm (12 in.) on 10.1 The furnace exposure shall be conducted for a length
center in perpendicular directions. The center of the reinforcing of time designated by the sponsor. The samples shall undergo
steel shall be located at the mid-depth between the exposed and a cool down period. During the cool down period, any applied
unexposed surfaces of the slab. load shall be maintained and sample temperatures shall con-
tinue to be recorded. Ratings shall be assigned as per Test
9.2.4 There shall be a minimum of nine thermocouples
Methods E119 based on the amount of furnace exposure, not
positioned within the horizontal, or vertical, standardized
including the cool down period, even though the cool down
concrete slab, evenly distributed on the reinforcing steel closest
period is considered part of the test.
to the heating conditions and a minimum of nine evenly
distributed at the interface between the concrete and the 10.2 The orientation shall be as intended in applications.
fire-resistive material. If the system has joints, an additional Ceilings shall be tested in the horizontal position with the fire
five thermocouples shall be located behind the joints. The conditions from the underneath. Walls shall be tested in the
thermocouples shall be type-K, chromel-alumel and shall be vertical position.
firmly affixed so as to not move during the casting. The 10.3 The testing laboratory shall terminate the test when-
thermocouples shall be capable of being cast into the concrete ever the laboratory determines conditions to be unsafe due to
without disturbing their operation. Route the thermocouple severe spalling of concrete, heating of the post tensioning steel,
leads parallel to the isothermal planes for a distance of 150 mm or near collapse.
(6 in.) from the measuring junction to minimize error associ-
ated with cooling from the leads. 10.4 The Spalling Test and the Fire-Resistive Material Test
are separate tests.
9.2.5 The fire-resistive materials shall be attached or ad-
hered to the slab in the same manner as is in intended 10.5 Loading:
applications. 10.5.1 The compressive level for the test shall be equal to
9.2.6 Any surface preparation shall be as in intended appli- the compressive level of the exposed face on the intended
cations. applications.
9.2.7 Representative joints shall be included if the fire- 10.5.2 Eccentric loading is permitted so long as the eccen-
resistive material system includes joints. tricity is not greater than in intended applications and the
compressive level on the exposed face is at least as great as that
9.2.8 When spray applied materials are used, the horizontal
in intended applications.
or vertical structural assembly shall be positioned for applica-
10.5.3 The Fire-Resistive Material Test is conducted with-
tion in the same orientation as it would be in the tunnel. For
out any applied load.
example, if the spray applied material is to be applied to the
ceiling, the test slab shall be suspended and the material spray 10.6 Conditions of Acceptance:
applied from underneath. 10.6.1 For both the Spalling Test and the Fire-Resistive
9.2.9 Fire-resistive materials shall not be tested until nomi- Material Test, the temperatures on the reinforcing steel, or at
nal moisture content equilibrium has been achieved. Samples 25 mm (1 in.) from the heated surface of the concrete shall be
prepared in accordance with 9.2.10 shall be used for determin- limited to 250 °C (482 °F) for any single measurement. This is
ing nominal moisture content equilibrium described in 9.2.11. applicable for both the furnace exposure period and the cool
9.2.10 In addition to the fire test specimen, prepare three down period.
305 × 305 mm (12 × 12 in.) samples of the material. For 10.6.2 For the Fire-Resistive Material Test, the temperatures
materials other than boards, blankets, etc., that are cut to size, on the concrete/fire-resistive material interface shall be limited
use a 305 × 305 mm (12 × 12 in.) pan that prevents moisture to 380 °C (716 °F) for any single measurement. This is
from leaving the sample from all but one face. The thickness applicable for both the furnace exposure period and the cool
shall be the same thickness as applied to the slab. down period. Sacrificial concrete systems shall be designed
9.2.11 The three prepared samples for determining moisture such that this criterion is met at the designed concrete cover
equilibrium shall be kept with the fire test specimen so they are depth into the concrete.
exposed to the same environmental conditions. The material NOTE 3—The temperature criteria related to the concrete and steel are
shall be weighed at the time of preparation, and periodically explained in the referenced literature, which suggest that concrete heated
thereafter. The weights shall be recorded and percent weight above 300 to 400 °C will sustain permanent damage, both for strength
properties as well as durability, and with a view to limit the risk of
change calculated. Nominal moisture content equilibrium is irreversible deformations (with exorbitant high repair costs) temperatures
obtained when the weight of each of the three samples does not in reinforcing steel should be limited to 250 °C. In the Netherlands, design
change 65 % over a 5-day period. limits have been set therefore, 380 °C as the maximum concrete surface

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 E3134 − 17
temperature and 250 °C at the reinforcing steel. 13. Report
10.6.2.1 Spalling Test shall be limited to superficial damage. 13.1 At a minimum, the report shall contain the following
For example, it is acceptable for the cement-rich layer of the information:
exposed concrete to have been removed as a result of the fire 13.1.1 Name of tunnel project where applicable.
exposure. Spalling shall not dislodge any aggregate. This is 13.1.2 List of all suppliers of test materials.
applicable for both the furnace exposure period and the cool 13.1.3 Trade names of all materials.
down period. 13.1.4 Manufacturing dates of all materials.
13.1.5 Material identification.
11. Fire-Resistive Joints 13.1.6 Material geometrical properties to include, thickness,
11.1 Where expansion or construction joints are part of the diameter, density, etc.
tunnel, they shall be tested using Test Method E1966. 13.1.7 Material mechanical properties to include, concrete
compressive strength, steel grade, etc.
11.2 The furnace time-temperature curve shall be as de- 13.1.8 Specifications of concrete mix or indication of pro-
scribed in 8.1 of this specification. prietary certification program.
11.3 The joint shall be subjected to the maximum rated 13.1.9 Mass ratio of mixture or indication of proprietary
dimension for cyclic movement at the minimum rated depth of certification program.
joint prior to the fire test. 13.1.10 Date concrete was cast.
13.1.11 Detailed time line for the concrete that includes
11.4 The test is conducted for the desired rating duration. removing the forms, application of fire protective materials,
11.5 The cool down period is not applicable for fire-resistive accelerated drying, etc.
joints. 13.1.12 Details of any accelerated drying.
13.1.13 Moisture content of concrete and fire protection
12. Overall Conditions of Acceptance material prior to test.
12.1 Surface burning characteristics in accordance with Test 13.1.14 Full construction details of test assemblies.
Method E84: FSI ≤ 25 and SDI ≤ 50 13.1.15 Dates of tests.
13.1.16 Identify if the alternative time-temperature curve is
12.2 Environmental Tests—The test specimen shall comply used.
with the requested environmental tests in accordance with 7.1. 13.1.17 Observations during the test.
12.3 Spalling—Damage following the test shall be limited 13.1.18 Measured spalling depths.
to superficial damage in accordance with 10.6.1 and 10.6.2.1. 13.1.19 Recorded data in graphical and tabular form.
13.1.20 Results obtained from Surface Burning Test, Envi-
12.4 Transmission of Heat: ronmental Tests, Spalling Test, Fire-Resistive Material Test,
12.4.1 The temperatures on the reinforcing steel, or at 25 Fire-Resistive Joint Test.
mm (1 in.) from the heated surface of the concrete shall be
limited to 250 °C (482 °F) for any single measurement. This is 14. Precision and Bias
applicable for both the furnace exposure period and the cool 14.1 No comprehensive test program has been conducted to
down period. develop data on which to derive statistical measures of
12.4.2 The temperatures on the concrete/fire resistive mate- repeatability (within-laboratory variability) and reproducibility
rial interface shall be limited to 380 °C (716 °F) for any single (among-laboratory variability). The limited data indicate that
measurement. This is applicable for both the furnace exposure there is a degree of repeatability and reproducibility for some
period and the cool down period. types of assemblies. Results depend on factors, such as the type
12.4.3 Fire Resistive Joints—The joints shall comply with of assembly and materials being tested, the characteristics of
the desired fire resistance rating after testing to Test Method the furnace, the nature of the boundary conditions, and details
E1966, in accordance with 11. of workmanship during assembly.

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 E3134 − 17
ANNEXES

(Mandatory Information)

A1. ALTERNATIVE TIME-TEMPERATURE CURVE

A1.1 General TABLE A1.2 Tunnel Fire Test Cool Down,

Time Interval Versus Temperature Decrease
A1.1.1 At the sponsor’s option, the alternative furnace
Furnace Temperature [°C (°F)]
time-temperature curve, presented in Tables A1.1 and A1.2, Added Time (min) from
Decrease from Time of
Time of Desired Rating Period
and as shown in Fig. A1.1, shall be used. Desired Rating Period
+10 –100 (–180)
NOTE A1.1—The alternative furnace time-temperature curve is a +20 –200 (–360)
combination of the worst case conditions, being the highest temperature +30 –300 (–540)
+40 –400 (–720)
+50 –500 (–900)
TABLE A1.1 Alternative Tunnel Fire Test Time-Temperature Curve +60 –600 (–1080)
for Control of Fire Tests +70 –700 (–1260)
+80 –800 (–1440)
Time (min) Temperature [°C (°F)] +90 –900 (–1620)
0 20 (68) +100 –1000 (–1800)
3 1047(1917)
5 1200 (2192)
10 1222 (2232)
30 1300 (2372) versus time points combined from various curves used in other countries.
60 1350 (2462) Use of this alternate exposure condition provides a single exposure that
90 1300 (2372) meets multiple exposure requirements. This only addresses the furnace
$120 1300 (2372) time-temperature curve and is not intended to address other requirements,
such as instrumentation, loading, or criteria.

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 E3134 − 17

FIG. A1.1 Tunnel Fire Test Time-Temperature—Alternative

A2. ENVIRONMENTAL TESTS

A2.1 Introduction A2.2 Ground Water Test

A2.1.1 At the sponsor’s option, the following environmen- A2.2.1 Test Sample:
tal tests are performed on the fire test materials in advance of A2.2.1.1 A minimum 305- × 305- × 51-mm (12- × 12- ×
the fire testing. The purpose is to evaluate environmental
2-in.) sample of the concrete, or other proprietary structural
impact to the structural elements (that is, concrete, reinforcing
material, with one reinforcing carbon steel No. 4 bar traversing
bar materials) and non-structural elements (that is, fire-resistive
the center of the sample, as well as any fire-resistive materials
materials) whereby an environmental condition will adversely
affect the structural elements or the fire-resistive materials, or intended to accompany the structural material is required.
both, before a fire takes place.

9
 E3134 − 17
A2.2.2 Conduct of Test: performed in accordance with Test Method C109 on minimum
A2.2.2.1 The sample shall be placed under a 1219-mm three unexposed cubes as well as minimum three cubes cut
(48-in.) column of tap water with 6 % concentration of salt per from the exposed test sample. The average compression
Practice G85, at 10 to 45 °C (50 to 115 °F), for one year. The strength of the three exposed cubes shall not be less than 95 %
material, thickness, or any protective barrier, or combinations of the average of compression strengths of the three unexposed
thereof, surrounding the reinforcing steel shall be as intended cubes.
for the end use.
A2.2.2.2 The sample and water column test rig shall be left A2.4 Tunnel Interior Surface Washing
undisturbed for the test duration or until failure is reached. A2.4.1 The submitter shall indicate whether or not a pro-
A2.2.2.3 The water levels and checks of the underside for tective barrier or paint is required to safeguard the structural
signs of white or red deposits shall occur on minimum intervals elements or any exposed fire-resistive materials’ membrane(s),
of 96 h (4 days). or both. In the event that a protective membrane is mandated
A2.2.3 Conditions of Acceptance: by the sponsor, the type and application wet film and dry film
A2.2.3.1 Failure occurs when white deposits from dissolved thickness(es) or applied sheet material(s), or both, shall be
cement stone or red deposits from reinforcing steel rust, or designated by the sponsor and form part of the report.
both, appear on the bottom side. These deposits on the A2.4.2 Test Sample—The test specimen size is dependent on
underside of the sample shall be documented in writing as well the method or equipment used, or both, but a minimum 305- ×
as by photograph and form part of the test report. 305- × 51-mm (12- × 12- × 2-in.) sample is required. The
A2.2.3.2 Compression strength tests of samples cast from sample shall be mounted, as necessary, such that only the
the same batch and at the same time as the test sample shall be surface that is intended to be exposed in the tunnel application
performed in accordance with Test Method C109 on minimum will be washed.
three unexposed cubes, as well as minimum three cubes cut
from the exposed test sample. The average compression A2.4.3 Conduct of Test:
strength of the three exposed cubes shall not be less than 95 % A2.4.3.1 The sponsor shall designate the method, intensity,
of the average of compression strengths of the three unexposed and duration of the washing method.
cubes. A2.4.3.2 Prior to each washing cycle, 1.0 kg (2.2 lb)/0.37
m2 (4.0 ft2) of standard play sand shall be deposited and evenly
A2.3 Road Salt Test spread on the surface of the samples.
A2.3.1 Test Sample: A2.4.3.3 The sample surface shall be cleaned as per the
A2.3.1.1 A minimum 305- × 305- × 51-mm (12- × 12- × method indicated by the sponsor.
2-in.) sample of the concrete, or other proprietary structural A2.4.3.4 The sand deposit and cleaning cycles shall be
material, with one reinforcing carbon steel No. 4 bar traversing completed for 100 cycles with no more than 96 h (4 days)
the center of the sample, as well as any fire-resistive materials between cycles. Sand removed via washing shall be re-used
intended to accompany the structural material is required. and supplemented with fresh sand, as needed, to ensure the
A2.3.2 Conduct of Test—Exposures shall be chosen by the deposit rate indicated above. The sand to be deposited will gain
sponsor from available options stated in Practice G85. The test the weight or the washing water and detergents but the weight
procedure in Practice G85 shall be modified such that the difference that cleaning fluids make up shall not be considered,
exposure chamber shall include the test sample as one wall or provided that recovered sand is placed for a minimum of 5 min
a portion of the test chamber wall, suitably gasketed such that onto a suitable sieve prior to weighing the amount of recovered
only the sample surface that is meant to be exposed in tunnels plus added new sand for each cleaning cycle.
is, in fact, directly exposed to the chosen exposure conditions A2.4.4 Conditions of Acceptance:
from Practice G85. A2.4.4.1 At the end of the washing exposure cycles,
A2.3.3 Conditions of Acceptance: samples shall not be visibly deteriorated or otherwise damaged.
A2.3.3.1 At the end of the exposure period, the test sample A2.4.4.2 Cleaning, weighing, and re-cleaning shall be docu-
shall not be visibly deteriorated, including any delaminating of mented in writing and photographs in the report. The report, as
materials. Any deterioration or delaminating shall be docu- well as any certification listings resulting from testing to this
mented in writing as well as by photograph and form part of the procedure, shall include the washing method to be employed,
test report. including but not limited to, water pressure, application equip-
A2.3.3.2 Compression strength tests of samples cast from ment and method, if the washing water was heated and to what
the same batch and at the same time as the test sample shall be temperature, and details of any detergents used.

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APPENDIX

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. COMMENTARY ON ENVIRONMENTAL TESTS

X1.1 Introduction cases is the active ingredient both in the structural element
X1.1.1 Environmental tests shall be conducted at the spon- (concrete) and in the fire-resistive materials.
sor’s option. The environmental tests are performed on the fire
test materials in advance of the fire testing. The purpose is to X1.4 Tunnel Interior Surface Washing
evaluate environmental impact to the structural elements (that X1.4.1 Some tunnel operators use lighting inside traffic
is, concrete, reinforcing bar materials) and non-structural tunnels and depend upon light reflection of the surfaces on the
elements (that is, fire-resistive materials) whereby an environ- inside of the tunnel for improved illumination, for road safety
mental condition will adversely affect the structural elements
and camera use. Normal tunnel use deposits dirt and soot on
or the fire-resistive materials, or both, before a fire takes place.
those surfaces, which impacts light reflection and thus road
X1.2 Ground Water Test safety. Therefore, some tunnel operators routinely wash the
inside surfaces of their tunnels. In that case, the inside exposed
X1.2.1 Traffic tunnels traversing underground are subject to
ground water and water run-off, which can access the tunnel. surfaces must either be capable of withstanding the washing or
When freezing conditions exist during the winter, ice will form be periodically replaced or repaired and, possibly, repainted. If
on the ceiling creating a hazard to traffic when it falls away. the interior surface of the tunnel is a qualified structural
Also, depending on the makeup of the water, in the event component, such as concrete, there is a solid surface for paint
chlorides or any other contaminants to concrete are present, to bond to. If the paint deteriorates or delaminates over time,
secondary efflorescence will occur, which becomes evident in the tunnel operator shall remove and replace the paint without
the formation of stalactites formed when cement stone is concern regarding the integrity of the substrate. In the case of
leached from concrete or cementitious fire-resistive materials. softer fire-resistive materials remaining on the inside exposed
The contaminants and subsequent leaching weakens the overall surfaces, cohesive failure occurs from excessive or repeated
structure. pressure washing whereby the pressurized water penetrates and
dislodges the paint from the fire-resistive materials thus dam-
X1.3 Road Salt Test aging the fire-resistive materials or environmental exposure
X1.3.1 Road salt is a contaminant to cement and thus will protection provided by the paint.
affect the stability and integrity of the cement, which in some

BIBLIOGRAPHY

(1) Annerel, E., “Assessment of the residual strength of concrete (6) Ingason, I., Zhen Li, Y., Lönnermark, A., Tunnel Fire Dynamics,
structures after fire exposure,” Ghent, 2010. Springer Science+Business Media, New York, NY, 2015.
(2) Brekelmans, Jan, BSc, and van den Bosch, René, BSc, “Summary of (7) Joseph, A., “Residual Compressive Strength of Normal and High
Large Scale Fire Tests in the Runehamar Tunnel in Norway,” Strength Concrete at Elevated Temperatures, International Journal
Conducted in Association with the UPTUN Research Program, of Engineering Research & Technology (IJERT),” June 2013.
September 2003. (8) Khoury, G. A., “Compressive strength of concrete at high tempera-
(3) Breunese, A. J., Tensile properties of concrete during fire, Delft tures: A reassessment, Magazine Concrete Research,” 1992.
University of Technology, 2001. (9) Phan, L., “Spalling and mechanical properties of high strength
(4) Design Fires in Road Tunnels, A Synthesis of Highway Practice, concrete at high temperature,” CONSEC, 2007.
National Cooperative Highway Research Program; Transportation
(10) Schlüter, A., “Passive Fire Protection for Tunnels: Guidelines,
Research Board; National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and
Parameters, Reality and Suitable Measures, Tunnel” 7, 2004.
Medicine, 2011, http://www.nap.edu/read/14562/.
(11) Tan, G. L., “The transport of dangerous cargo through tunnels –
(5) EUREKA PROJECT 499 FIRETUN, http://
www.eurekanetwork.org. practical application in road tunnels in the Netherlands,” KIVI, 1984.

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