ASTM F2170 Testing

In-situ relative humidity within the concrete slab.

ASTM F2170 measures relative humidity (RH) inside the concrete slab using probes placed at a specified depth. RH here is the humidity within the concrete pore environment — not a percentage of water by weight.

ASTM F2170 in-situ relative humidity probe in a drilled concrete slab

Who it helps

Anyone who needs a quantified internal moisture condition of a concrete slab before flooring installation, or as part of a flooring investigation.

When it's relevant

When the flooring system or specification calls for in-situ RH testing, or when an investigation needs an internal slab moisture measurement.

What's included

  • Up to two on-site visits
  • Testing setup within the agreed scope
  • Documentation of testing locations
  • Relevant ambient / site-condition documentation
  • Analysis of results
  • Comparison with relevant flooring / adhesive requirements when available
  • Correction plan / corrective recommendations when appropriate
  • Professional certified report

Two-visit structure

Visit 1

Site evaluation, preparation, and installation of probe sleeves to the required depth.

Visit 2

Return visit after the equilibration period to take hygrometer readings.

The equilibration period requires stable ambient conditions during the wait.

Site access

Requires access to bare concrete and the ability to drill/insert probe sleeves. The equilibration period means the site must remain at stable conditions for the required time.

What you receive

  • Measured RH values per location
  • Documented probe locations and depths
  • Ambient conditions at the time of testing
  • Comparison with the applicable specified criteria
  • A professional certified report

Limitations

  • Results represent conditions at the tested locations and time, not a guarantee of future conditions.
  • RH is relative humidity within the slab, not a percentage of water by weight.
  • A public abstract is not a substitute for the full published procedure.

Common questions

Is RH the same as moisture content?

No. RH is relative humidity within the concrete pore environment, not a percentage of water by weight.

How long does F2170 take?

After probes are installed, the method requires an equilibration period before readings are taken.

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