ASTM E3134-20

Standard Specification for Transportation Tunnel Structural Components and Passive Fire Protection Systems

ABSTRACT
This specification describes an approach for testing the fire resistance of concrete tunnel linings, fire-resistive materials, and structural tunnel members. It requires testing of both horizontal and vertical orientations and is limited to concrete mix design and fire-resistive materials, as well as the potential impact of environmental exposures (optional). A minimum of one fire test is required for each assembly, configuration, and orientation. For cases where the concrete mix design is intended to address the fire load independent of fire-resistive materials, the Spalling Test is applicable. For cases where standard or general concrete design mix is intended and protected by fire-resistive materials, the Fire-Resistive Material Test is applicable. For cases where both the concrete design mix and fire-resistive materials are combined to address the fire load, both test criteria are applicable but can be accomplished with one fire test for each assembly, configuration, and orientation. The test methods covered by this specification are used to determine the performance of tunnel construction elements with respect to exposure to a standard time-temperature fire test. The tests include surface burning test, environmental tests (optional: ground water test, road salt test, tunnel interior surface washing, spalling test, fire-resistive material test), and fire-resistive joint test.
This specification also covers the requirements for flame spread, control of fire tests for fire resistive materials, test specimen for fire resistive materials, conduct of test, overall conditions of acceptance, report, and precision and bias.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification is applicable to the fire resistance of concrete tunnel linings, fire-resistive materials, and structural tunnel members.  
1.2 Concrete mix design, tunnel linings, and passive fire protection methods are specific to each tunnel project. Therefore results of the spalling test are only valid for the specific materials and systems employed during each test, notwithstanding maximum and minimum limitations.  
1.3 Tunnels are potentially exposed to ground water, even those passing through elevated terrain, such as mountains, road salt, and maintenance surface washing. Consideration shall be given to potential adverse effects that result, such as material degradation due to these exposures.  
1.4 Movement joints shall be considered and their impact on the overall fire resistance shall be assessed by testing. Tests shall be conducted as a system.  
1.5 This specification does not address mechanical attachment methods for equipment due to the vast variety of possible methods and loads. However, consideration shall be given to methods that appreciably affect the concrete temperature during the heating conditions. Consideration shall be given to a second test conducted with the attachment to evaluate the effect. The attachment test shall include the largest diameter anchor, the deepest installed anchor, and the largest load applied to the anchor. This requirement results in a single anchor being tested or multiple anchors being tested. If multiple anchors are required to be tested, then each shall be tested under its maximum load.  
1.6 This specification requires testing of both horizontal and vertical orientations. For fire-resistive materials, it is generally accepted that the horizontal orientation represents the worst case test scenario.  
1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to inch-pound units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.8 This standard is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under controlled conditions, but does not, by itself, incorporate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under actual fire...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Dec-2019
• ICS: 13.220.50 - Fire-resistance of building materials and elements
• ICS: 93.060 - Tunnel construction
• Technical Committee: E05 - Fire Standards
• Drafting Committee: E05.11 - Fire Resistance

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM E3134-17 - Standard Specification for Transportation Tunnel Structural Components and Passive Fire Protection Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM E176-24 - Standard Terminology of Fire Standards
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM E84-23d - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM E84-23c - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2023
• Refers: ASTM G85-19 - Standard Practice for Modified Salt Spray (Fog) Testing
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2019
• Refers: ASTM E119-19 - Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM E84-19b - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2019
• Refers: ASTM E84-19a - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM E1966-15(2019) - Standard Test Method for Fire-Resistive Joint Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2019
• Refers: ASTM E84-19 - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2019
• Refers: ASTM E176-18a - Standard Terminology of Fire Standards
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2018
• Refers: ASTM E119-18c - Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2018
• Refers: ASTM E119-18ce1 - Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2018
• Refers: ASTM E84-18b - Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2018
• Refers: ASTM E119-18b - Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2018

Overview

ASTM E3134-20: Standard Specification for Transportation Tunnel Structural Components and Passive Fire Protection Systems provides a comprehensive framework for testing and qualifying structural tunnel elements and passive fire protection systems used in transportation tunnels. Developed by ASTM International, this standard addresses the critical need for assessing tunnel linings, fire-resistive materials, and related structural components under realistic fire and environmental conditions. The specification ensures that tunnels maintain structural integrity and safety during fire events, while also accounting for environmental factors such as ground water, road salt, and regular cleaning operations.

Key Topics

• Fire Resistance Testing: Defines test methods for evaluating concrete tunnel linings and fire-resistive materials, including both spalling and surface burning behaviors.
• Passive Fire Protection: Addresses methods for protecting tunnels using heat-resistant concrete and passive fire-resistive materials, with criteria for limiting temperature rise in steel reinforcement and concrete.
• Environmental Impact: Includes optional but recommended environmental exposure assessments, such as ground water, road salt, and tunnel interior washing, to understand long-term durability.
• Fire-Resistive Joints: Requires fire testing for tunnel movement joints to ensure continuity in fire resistance under operational movement conditions.
• Quality Reporting: Outlines minimum requirements for documentation, including material properties, test conditions, and all relevant results.

Applications

ASTM E3134-20 is vital for:

• Tunnel Designers and Engineers: Ensuring transportation tunnels meet safety requirements for fire events by selecting materials and assemblies tested and certified according to this standard.
• Fire Protection Specialists: Guiding the selection and application of fire-resistive materials for optimal performance under tunnel fire scenarios.
• Regulators and Authorities: Providing a standard reference for tunnel safety compliance and approval of construction practices.
• Material Manufacturers: Supporting the development and certification of concrete and passive fire protection materials specifically for tunnel applications.

Typical applications include:

• Designing new transportation tunnels for road, rail, or metro systems, especially in urban and subterranean environments.
• Retrofitting existing tunnels with improved fire-resistive linings or materials to enhance safety and performance.
• Testing and certifying new fire-resistive technologies before market launch or specification in major infrastructure projects.

Related Standards

The following documents are frequently referenced with ASTM E3134-20:

• ASTM E119 - Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
• ASTM E84 - Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
• ASTM C109 - Compressive Strength of Hydraulic Cement Mortars
• ASTM G85 - Modified Salt Spray (Fog) Testing
• ASTM E176 - Terminology of Fire Standards
• ASTM E1966 - Fire-Resistive Joint Systems
• Efectis R0695 - Fire Testing Procedure for Concrete Tunnel Linings

Practical Value

Adhering to ASTM E3134-20 ensures that transportation tunnels:

• Deliver proven fire resistance for concrete linings and structural elements.
• Limit temperature rise in critical components, reducing the risk of catastrophic failure during fires.
• Are designed with tested passive fire protection, providing added layers of safety.
• Remain durable against common environmental stressors such as water intrusion and salt exposure.
• Meet regulatory requirements and international expectations for tunnel safety, boosting public confidence and facilitating project approvals.

By following ASTM E3134-20, professionals in tunnel design, construction, and maintenance ensure sustainable, resilient infrastructure with superior fire safety and structural longevity.

Standards Content (Sample)

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 −20 An American National Standard
Standard Specification for
Transportation Tunnel Structural Components and Passive
Fire Protection Systems
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.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
INTRODUCTION
Fireposesaseriousthreattothestructuralstabilityoftunnelsasshownbyrealfiresintunnelsover
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
anchor being tested or multiple anchors being tested. If
1.1 This specification is applicable to the fire resistance of
multiple anchors are required to be tested, then each shall be
concrete tunnel linings, fire-resistive materials, and structural
tested under its maximum load.
tunnel members.
1.2 Concrete mix design, tunnel linings, and passive fire 1.6 Thisspecificationrequirestestingofbothhorizontaland
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
thosepassingthroughelevatedterrain,suchasmountains,road
conversions to inch-pound units that are provided for informa-
salt, and maintenance surface washing. Consideration shall be
tion only and are not considered standard.
given to potential adverse effects that result, such as material
degradation due to these exposures.
1.8 This standard is used to measure and describe the
response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and
1.4 Movementjointsshallbeconsideredandtheirimpacton
flame under controlled conditions, but does not, by itself,
the overall fire resistance shall be assessed by testing. Tests
incorporate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk
shall be conducted as a system.
assessment of the materials, products, or assemblies under
1.5 This specification does not address mechanical attach-
actual fire conditions.
mentmethodsforequipmentduetothevastvarietyofpossible
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
1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of the
effect. The attachment test shall include the largest diameter
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
anchor, the deepest installed anchor, and the largest load
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
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
Resistance.
1.11 This international standard was developed in accor-
Current edition approved Jan. 1, 2020. Published January 2020. Originally
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
approved in 2017. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as E3134-17. Published
January 2020. DOI: 10.1520/E3134-20. 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
E3134−20
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom- 4.1.2.3 Tunnel Interior SurfaceWashing assesses the effects
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical ofrepeatedwashingonconcretetunnelliningandfire-resistive
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee. materials.
4.1.2.4 Spalling Test—The Spalling Test is intended to
2. Referenced Documents
assessthespallingbehaviorofconcretemixdesignsspecificto
2.1 ASTM Standards: tunnel project specification. The test assesses the reinforcing
steel by means of temperature and temperature of other critical
C109Test Method for Compressive Strength of Hydraulic
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
E84Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of
Material Test is intended for materials whose purpose is to
Building Materials protecttheconcretebylimitingthetemperatureattheinterface
E119Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction
with the concrete and limiting reinforcing steel temperatures
and Materials within the concrete.
E176Terminology of Fire Standards
4.1.3 Fire-Resistive Joint Test—When movement joints are
E1966Test Method for Fire-Resistive Joint Systems
used as part of the tunnel construction, they shall be assessed
G85Practice for Modified Salt Spray (Fog) Testing
forfireresistanceandtheabilitytoundergomovementwithout
2.2 Other Standard: reducing the fire rating.
2008-Efectis-R0695Fire testing procedure for concrete tun-
nel linings 5. Significance and Use
5.1 Thetestmethodsdescribedinthisspecificationareused
3. Terminology
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
specific assembly of materials tested.
4. Summary of Test Method
5.2 The test exposes a specimen to the selected fire
4.1 Different fire protection approaches are chosen in the
exposure, as described in this specification, controlled to
design and construction of tunnels. The approaches addressed
achieve specified temperatures throughout a specified time
in this specification are limited to concrete mix design and
period.
fire-resistive materials, and the potential impact of environ-
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
protectedbyfire-resistivematerials,theFire-ResistiveMaterial
within a transportation tunnel.
Test is applicable. For cases where both the concrete design
5.3.3 Spalling—Susceptibility of concrete design mixes to
mixandfire-resistivematerialsarecombinedtoaddressthefire
spallingwhenexposedtothefireexposure,asdescribedinthis
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.
turesatcriticallocationssuchasreinforcingsteelandinterface
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 withTest 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 SaltTest 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.
5.4.3 Evaluation of the degree by which the specimen
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contributes to the fire hazard by generation of smoke, toxic
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
gases, or other products of combustion.
the ASTM website.
5.4.4 Measurement of the degree of control or limitation of
Available from efectis nederland, P.O. Box 554, 2665 ZN Bleiswijk, Brand-
the passage of smoke or products of combustion through the
puntlaan Zuid 16, 2665 NZ Bleiswijk, The Netherlands, http://efectis.com/wp-
content/uploads/2016/07/RWSProcedureFireProtectionforTunnels.pdf. specimen.
E3134−20
TABLE 2 Tunnel Fire Test Cool Down,
6. Flame Spread
Time Interval Versus Temperature Decrease
6.1 Fire-resistive materials shall be tested in accordance
Furnace Temperature [°C (°F)]
Added Time (min) from
with Test Method E84. The FSI shall be ≤25 and SDI ≤50.
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)
+40 –400 (–720)
sponsor, design professional, or authority having jurisdiction
+50 –500 (–900)
has a concern about the impact on fire resistance from the
+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)
inadvanceofthefiretestingtoevaluateenvironmentalimpact.
+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.
8.2.4 For samples in the vertical orientation, place the
8.1 Time-Temperature Curve:
junction of the thermocouple 152 mm (6.0 in.) away from the
8.1.1 Thefireexposureshallbecontrolledtoconformtothe
exposed face of the sample.
modified Rijkswaterstaat (RWS) curve, taken from 2008-
8.2.5 Read and record the temperature at intervals not
Efectis-R0695, presented in Tables 1 and 2, and as shown in
exceeding 1 min.
Fig. 1.
8.2.6 The accuracy of the furnace control shall be such that
8.1.2 As an option, an alternate time-temperature curve is
the area under the temperature-time curve, obtained by aver-
presentedinAnnexA1.Thealternativetime-temperaturecurve
aging the results from the furnace thermocouple readings, is
presented incorporates the highest temperatures of the various
within 15% of the corresponding area under the standard
furnace fire exposures known at the time this document was
temperature-time curve presented in Tables 1 and 2, and as
written. The intent is to provide a worst case test to allow for
shown in Fig. 1, for the time period between 5 and 10 min,
multiple approvals from one test.
10% for the time period between 10 and 30 min and 5% from
8.1.3 The samples shall undergo a cool down period by
30 min to the end of the test.
decreasing the furnace temperature by 10°C (18°F) per
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
andunexposedsurfacesofthetestassembly.Thepressureshall
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
2 2
thermocouples per 9.3 m (100 ft ) of exposed floor surface,
suitable material.
2 2
and no fewer than nine thermocouples per 9.3 m (100 ft)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 ThefurnacethermocouplesshallbeTypeB,platinum-
capable of reading 2.5-Pa (0.01-in. H O) increments with a
rhodium, 0.81 mm (0.032-in.) wire, exposed junction thermo-
measurement precision of 1.25 Pa (0.005 in. H O).
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. H O), then following the
3 891 (1635)
first10min,thepressureshallbecontrolledat20 64Pa(0.08
5 1141 (2085)
6 0.016 in. H O).
10 1199 (2190)
30 1299 (2370)
NOTE 2—It is recognized that the dynamic nature of the furnace limits
60 1349 (2460)
the ability of pressure control within the furnace, so there is a greater
90 1299 (2370)
tolerance for the first 10 min of startup. However, the goal is to achieve a
$120 1199 (2190)
stable pressure of 20 Pa as quickly as possible.
E3134−20
FIG. 1Tunnel Fire Test Time-Temperature
9. Test Specimen for Fire Resistive Materials orientation such that the bottom, formwork side, is exposed to
the furnace conditions. Wall specimens shall be cast vertically.
9.1 Spalling Test:
9.1.5.2 Thermocouples for internal measurement of steel
9.1.1 Theorientationofthespecimenforthetestisbasedon
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
positionedwithintheslab,evenlydistributedonthereinforcing
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
concrete or installation of the fire-resistive material does not
subject to certification listing.
lead to inadequate contact of the thermocouple junction with
9.1.4 The sample shall be large enough to avoid edge
theconcretesurface.Ifthesystemhasjoints,anadditionalfive
effects.At a minimum, the horizontal sample size shall expose
2 2
thermocouples shall be located behind the joints. If post-
9.3 m (100 ft ) with no area dimension less than 2750 mm
2 2
tensioning is used for compressive loading, one thermocouple
(9ft).Verticalsamplesizeshallexpose9.3m (100ft )withno
shall be located at the center of each post-tensioning sleeve
area dimension less than 2750 mm (9 ft). Sample thickness
included with the concrete casting, positioned closest to the
shall be the actual thickness in the intended applications but
heating condition. The thermocouples shall be type-K,
limited to 610 mm (24 in.).
chromel-alumel and shall be firmly affixed so as to not move
9.1.5 Preparation:
during the casting. The thermocouples shall be capable of
9.1.5.1 Concrete casting shall be the intended end-use
being cast into the concrete without disturbing their operation.
condition including type of formwork and orientation. Speci-
mens for ceiling locations shall be cast in a horizontal Route the thermocouple leads parallel to the isothermal planes
E3134−20
FIG. 2Pressure 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.Ifpost-tensioningisused,sleevesshallbeinstalledprior
9.2 Fire-Resistive Material Test:
to casting the concrete. Exact positioning of the sleeves is
9.2.1 Fire-resistive material is not specific to a single
important and consideration shall be given to potential loss of
system; therefore, qualification for application over different
load due to thermal expansion of the steel. The compressive
systems is necessary. A standardized concrete slab is used for
load and eccentricity shall be equal to the design value as
provided by the tunnel lining design engineer. fire-resistive material qualification.
E3134−20
9.2.2 The standardized concrete slab shall be cast with obtainedwhentheweightofeachofthethreesamplesdoesnot
normal weight, 27.6-N/mm (4000-psi) strength concrete.At a change 65% over a 5-day period.
minimum, the horizontal sample size shall expose 9.3 m (100 9.2.12 Thickness and density of the fire-resistive materials
ft ) with no area dimension less than 2750 mm (9 ft). Vertical shall be measured and reported. Density shall be determined at
2 2
sample size shall expose 9.3 m (100 ft ) with no area the nominal moisture content equilibrium condition.
dimension less than 2750 mm (9 ft), with a thickness of 6 in.
9.3 Protection and Conditioning of the Test Specimen—The
(150 mm).
testspecimenshallbeprotectedandconditionedinaccordance
9.2.3 The standardized concrete slab shall be reinforced
with requirements of Test Methods E119.
with 10M, nominal diameter 11.3 mm, (No. 4, nominal
10. Conduct of Test
diameter ⁄2 in.) reinforcing steel, spaced 305 mm (12 in.) on
centerinperpendiculardirections.Thecenterofthereinforcing
10.1 The furnace exposure shall be conducted for a length
steelshallbelocatedatthemid-depthbetweentheexposedand
of time designated by the sponsor. The samples shall undergo
unexposed surfaces of the slab.
a cool down period. During the cool down period, any applied
9.2.4 There shall be a minimum of nine thermocouples
load shall be maintained and sample temperatures shall con-
positioned within the horizontal, or vertical, standardized
tinue to be recorded. Ratings shall be assigned as per Test
concreteslab,evenlydistributedonthereinforcingsteelclosest
Methods E119 based on the amount of furnace exposure, not
to the heating conditions and a minimum of nine evenly
including the cool down period, even though the cool down
distributed at the interface between the concrete and the
period is considered part of the test.
fire-resistive material. If the system has joints, an additional
10.2 The orientation shall be as in
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: E3134 − 17 E3134 − 20 An American National Standard
Standard Specification for
Transportation Tunnel Structural Components and Passive
Fire Protection Systems
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
1.1 This specification is applicable to the fire resistance of concrete tunnel linings, fire-resistive materials, and structural tunnel
members.
1.2 Concrete mix design, tunnel linings, and passive fire protection methods are specific to each tunnel project. Therefore results
of the spalling test are only valid for the specific materials and systems employed during each test, notwithstanding maximum and
minimum limitations.
1.3 Tunnels are potentially exposed to ground water, even those passing through elevated terrain, such as mountains, road salt,
and maintenance surface washing. Consideration shall be given to potential adverse effects that result, such as material degradation
due to these exposures.
1.4 Movement joints shall be considered and their impact on the overall fire resistance shall be assessed by testing. Tests shall
be conducted as a system.
1.5 This specification does not address mechanical attachment methods for equipment due to the vast variety of possible
methods and loads. However, consideration shall be given to methods that appreciably affect the concrete temperature during the
heating conditions. Consideration shall be given to a second test conducted with the attachment to evaluate the effect. The
attachment test shall include the largest diameter anchor, the deepest installed anchor, and the largest load applied to the anchor.
This requirement results in a single anchor being tested or multiple anchors being tested. If multiple anchors are required to be
tested, then each shall be tested under its maximum load.
1.6 This specification requires testing of both horizontal and vertical orientations. For fire-resistive materials, it is generally
accepted that the horizontal orientation represents the worst case test scenario.
1.7 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions
to inch-pound units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.8 This standard is used to measure and describe the response of materials, products, or assemblies to heat and flame under
controlled conditions, but does not, by itself, incorporate all factors required for fire hazard or fire risk assessment of the materials,
products, or assemblies under actual fire conditions.
1.9 Fire testing is inherently hazardous. Adequate safeguards for personnel and property shall be employed in conducting these
tests.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E05 on Fire Standards and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E05.11 on Fire Resistance.
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2017Jan. 1, 2020. Published March 2018January 2020. Originally approved in 2017. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as
E3134-17. Published January 2020. DOI: 10.1520/E3134-17.10.1520/E3134-20.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
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1.10 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.11 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C109 Test Method for Compressive Strength of Hydraulic Cement Mortars (Using 2-in. or [50-mm] Cube Specimens)
E84 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials
E119 Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
E176 Terminology of Fire Standards
E1966 Test Method for Fire-Resistive Joint Systems
G85 Practice for Modified Salt Spray (Fog) Testing
2.2 Other Standard:
2008-Efectis-R0695 Fire testing procedure for concrete tunnel linings
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms found in this specification, refer to Terminology E176.
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 Different fire protection approaches are chosen in the design and construction of tunnels. The approaches addressed in this
specification are limited to concrete mix design and fire-resistive materials, and the potential impact of environmental exposures
(optional). A minimum of one fire test is required for each assembly, configuration, and orientation. For cases where the concrete
mix design is intended to address the fire load independent of fire-resistive materials, the Spalling Test in accordance with 9.1 is
applicable. For cases where standard or general concrete design mix is intended and protected by fire-resistive materials, the
Fire-Resistive Material Test is applicable. For cases where both the concrete design mix and fire-resistive materials are combined
to address the fire load, both test criteria are applicable but can be accomplished with one fire test for each assembly, configuration,
and orientation.
4.1.1 Surface Burning Test:
4.1.1.1 Flame Spread Index (FSI) and Smoke Developed Index (SDI) in accordance with Test Method E84 are provided for
fire-resistive materials.
4.1.2 Environmental Tests (Optional):
4.1.2.1 Ground Water Test is a means to assess the effect of water and moisture on concrete tunnel lining and fire-resistive
materials.
4.1.2.2 Road Salt Test assesses the effect of salt on concrete tunnel lining and fire-resistive materials.
4.1.2.3 Tunnel Interior Surface Washing assesses the effects of repeated washing on concrete tunnel lining and fire-resistive
materials.
4.1.2.4 Spalling Test—The Spalling Test is intended to assess the spalling behavior of concrete mix designs specific to tunnel
project specification. The test assesses the reinforcing steel by means of temperature and temperature of other critical locations,
such as post tension sleeves.
4.1.2.5 Fire-Resistive Material Test—The Fire-Resistive Material Test is intended for materials whose purpose is to protect the
concrete by limiting the temperature at the interface with the concrete and limiting reinforcing steel temperatures within the
concrete.
4.1.3 Fire-Resistive Joint Test—When movement joints are used as part of the tunnel construction, they shall be assessed for
fire resistance and the ability to undergo movement without reducing the fire rating.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 The test methods described in this specification are used to determine the performance of tunnel construction elements with
respect to exposure to a standard time-temperature fire test. The performance of the elements is dependent upon the specific
assembly of materials tested.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from efectis nederland, P.O. Box 554, 2665 ZN Bleiswijk, Brandpuntlaan Zuid 16, 2665 NZ Bleiswijk, The Netherlands, http://efectis.com/wp-content/
uploads/2016/07/RWSProcedureFireProtectionforTunnels.pdf.
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5.2 The test exposes a specimen to the selected fire exposure, as described in this specification, controlled to achieve specified
temperatures throughout a specified time period.
5.3 The test standard provides for the following:
5.3.1 Flame Spread—Comparative measurements of flame spread and smoke developed in accordance with Test Method E84.
5.3.2 Environmental Considerations—Potential effects on the fire resistance from environmental conditions expected within a
transportation tunnel.
5.3.3 Spalling—Susceptibility of concrete design mixes to spalling when exposed to the fire exposure, as described in this
specification.
5.3.4 Transmission of Heat—The ability to limit temperatures at critical locations such as reinforcing steel and interface of
fire-resistive materials and concrete.
5.3.5 Fire-Resistive Joints—The ability to maintain fire resistance continuity when the assembly requires a joint to mitigate the
effects of movement.
5.4 The test standard does not provide the following:
5.4.1 Evaluation of active fire protection methods or systems or other techniques not appropriate for evaluation by this
specification.
5.4.2 Information as to performance of specimens constructed with components or lengths other than those tested.
5.4.3 Evaluation of the degree by which the specimen contributes to the fire hazard by generation of smoke, toxic gases, or other
products of combustion.
5.4.4 Measurement of the degree of control or limitation of the passage of smoke or products of combustion through the
specimen.
6. Flame Spread
6.1 Fire-resistive materials shall be tested in accordance with Test Method E84. The FSI shall be ≤25 and SDI ≤50.
7. Environmental Tests
7.1 Environmental tests shall be conducted when the test sponsor, design professional, or authority having jurisdiction has a
concern about the impact on fire resistance from the presence of water, road salt, or repeated surface washing, or combinations
thereof. The environmental tests are performed in advance of the fire testing to evaluate environmental impact. Included are ground
water test, road salt test, and tunnel interior surface washing. For more details on the environmental tests, see Appendix X1.
8. Control of Fire Tests for Fire Resistive Materials
8.1 Time-Temperature Curve:
8.1.1 The fire exposure shall be controlled to conform to the modified Rijkswaterstaat (RWS) curve, taken from 2008-Efectis-
R0695, presented in Tables 1 and 2, and as shown in Fig. 1.
8.1.2 As an option, an alternate time-temperature curve is presented in Annex A1. The alternative time-temperature curve
presented incorporates the highest temperatures of the various furnace fire exposures known at the time this document was written.
The intent is to provide a worst case test to allow for multiple approvals from one test.
8.1.3 The samples shall undergo a cool down period by decreasing the furnace temperature by 10 °C (18 °F) per minute for 100
min, see Table 2.
8.2 Furnace Temperature:
8.2.1 The temperature fixed by the curve shall be the average temperature obtained from the readings of thermocouples
symmetrically distributed within the test furnace to show the temperature near all parts of the assembly. Use a minimum of three
2 2
thermocouples, with no fewer than five thermocouples per 9.3 m (100 ft ) of exposed floor surface, and no fewer than nine
2 2
thermocouples per 9.3 m (100 ft ) of exposed wall surface.
8.2.2 The furnace thermocouples shall be Type B, platinum-rhodium, 0.81 mm (0.032-in.) wire, exposed junction thermo-
couples. One conductor contains 30 % rhodium and the other conductor contains 6 % rhodium.
TABLE 1 Tunnel Fire Test Time-Temperature Curve for Control of
Fire Tests
Time (min) Temperature [°C (°F)]
0 20 (68)
3 891 (1635)
5 1141 (2085)
10 1199 (2190)
30 1299 (2370)
60 1349 (2460)
90 1299 (2370)
$120 1199 (2190)
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TABLE 2 Tunnel Fire Test Cool Down,
Time Interval Versus Temperature Decrease
Furnace Temperature [°C (°F)]
Added Time (min) from
Decrease from Time of
Time of Desired Rating Period
Desired Rating Period
+10 –100 (–180)
+20 –200 (–360)
+30 –300 (–540)
+40 –400 (–720)
+50 –500 (–900)
+60 –600 (–1080)
+70 –700 (–1260)
+80 –800 (–1440)
+90 –900 (–1620)
+100 –1000 (–1800)
8.2.3 For samples in the horizontal orientation, place the junction of the thermocouple 305 mm (12.0 in.) away from the exposed
face of the sample.
8.2.4 For samples in the vertical orientation, place the junction of the thermocouple 152 mm (6.0 in.) away from the exposed
face of the sample.
8.2.5 Read and record the temperature at intervals not exceeding 1 min.
8.2.6 The accuracy of the furnace control shall be such that the area under the temperature-time curve, obtained by averaging
the results from the furnace thermocouple readings, is within 15 % of the corresponding area under the standard temperature-time
curve presented in Tables 1 and 2, and as shown in Fig. 1, for the time period between 5 and 10 min, 10 % for the time period
between 10 and 30 min and 5 % from 30 min to the end of the test.
NOTE 1—The spalling of concrete will expose new, cold concrete surfaces that will increase the need for energy input in order to maintain furnace
control within tolerance.
8.3 Furnace Pressure:
8.3.1 Measure the differential pressure between the exposed and unexposed surfaces of the test assembly. The pressure shall be
measured using a tee-shaped probe, or a tube probe, as shown in Fig. 2, manufactured from stainless steel, or other suitable
material.
8.3.2 Measure the pressure by means of a manometer or equivalent transducer. The manometer or transducer shall be capable
of reading 2.5-Pa (0.01-in. H O) increments with a measurement precision of 1.25 Pa (0.005 in. H O).
2 2
8.3.3 Horizontal Specimen—The required differential pressure plane shall be located within the furnace 305 mm (12 in.) below
the specimen.
8.3.4 Vertical Specimen—The required differential pressure plane shall be located within the furnace at the mid-height of the
specimen.
8.3.5 Following the first 5 min of the test, the pressure shall be controlled at below 50 Pa (0.2 in. H O), then following the first
10 min, the pressure shall be controlled at 20 6 4 Pa (0.08 6 0.016 in. H O).
NOTE 2—It is recognized that the dynamic nature of the furnace limits the ability of pressure control within the furnace, so there is a greater 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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FIG. 1 Tunnel Fire Test Time-Temperature
9. Test Specimen for Fire Resistive Materials
9.1 Spalling Test:
9.1.1 The orientation of the specimen for the test is based on the element it represents. Walls shall be tested vertically and
ceilings tested horizontally. If the specimen represents both vertical and horizontal application, it shall be tested in both
orientations.
9.1.2 The concrete mix design, casting, and finishing shall be to the sponsor’s specifications or subject to certification listing.
This includes aggregate type and size, additives, added fibers, other fillers, cement type and quantity, water cement ratio, etc., and
application and bonding, fastening, attachment, etc., of external fire-resistive materials.
9.1.3 Reinforcement type, size, spacing, location, minimum concrete cover, etc., shall be to the sponsor’s specifications or
subject to certification listing.
9.1.4 The sample shall be large enough to avoid edge effects. At a minimum, the horizontal sample size shall expose 16.759.3
2 2 2 2
m (180(100 ft ) with no area dimension less than 30502750 mm (10 ft). (9 ft). Vertical sample size shall expose 9.3 m (100 ft )
with no area dimension less than 2750 mm (9 ft). Sample thickness shall be the actual thickness in the intended applications but
limited to 610 mm (24 in.).
9.1.5 Preparation:
9.1.5.1 Concrete casting shall be the intended end-use condition including type of formwork and orientation. Specimens for
ceiling locations shall be cast in a horizontal orientation such that the bottom, formwork side, is exposed to the furnace conditions.
Wall specimens shall be cast vertically.
9.1.5.2 Thermocouples for internal measurement of steel and the concrete temperature gradient shall be placed in the specimen
prior to casting of concrete. Care must be taken to assure that the locations are not altered during casting.
9.1.5.3 There shall be a minimum of nine thermocouples positioned within the slab, evenly distributed on the reinforcing steel
closest to the heating conditions. If the slab is protected with fire-resistive material on the exposed face, a minimum of nine
additional thermocouples shall be positioned and evenly distributed at the fire-resistive material and concrete interface, to record
the concrete surface temperature. Care must be taken with the application of the thermocouples so casting of the concrete or
installation of the fire-resistive material does not lead to inadequate contact of the thermocouple junction with the concrete surface.
If the system has joints, an additional five thermocouples shall be located behind the joints. If post-tensioning is used for
compressive loading, one thermocouple shall be located at the center of each post-tensioning sleeve included with the concrete
casting, positioned closest to the heating condition. The thermocouples shall be type-K, chromel-alumel and shall be firmly affixed
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FIG. 2 Pressure Sensing Probe
so as to not move during the casting. The thermocouples shall be capable of being cast into the concrete without disturbing their
operation. Route the thermocouple leads parallel to the isothermal planes for a distance of 150 mm (6 in.) from the measuring
junction to minimize error associated with cooling from the leads.
9.1.5.4 Compressive loading shall be accomplished with post-tensioning or hydraulic jacks bearing against a reaction frame. If
post-tensioning is used, sleeves shall be installed prior to casting the concrete. Exact positioning of the sleeves is important and
consideration shall be given to potential loss of load due to thermal expansion of the steel. The compressive load and eccentricity
shall be equal to the design value as provided by the tunnel lining design engineer.
9.1.6 Any externally applied fire-resistive material shall be applied in the same manner as it is in the intended end-use
application. This includes surface preparation, attachments, application orientation, thickness, and joints.
9.2 Fire-Resistive Material Test:
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9.2.1 Fire-resistive material is not specific to a single system; therefore, qualification for application over different systems is
necessary. A standardized concrete slab is used for fire-resistive material qualification.
9.2.2 The standardized concrete slab shall be cast with normal weight, 27.6-N/mm (4000-psi) strength concrete. At a minimum,
2 2
the horizontal sample size shall expose 16.759.3 m (180(100 ft ) with no area dimension less than 30502750 mm (10(9 ft). Vertical
2 2
sample size shall expose 9.3 m (100 ft ) with no area dimension less than 2750 mm (9 ft), with a thickness of 6 in. (150 mm).
9.2.3 The standardized concrete slab shall be reinforced with 10M, nominal diameter 11.3 mm, (No. 4, nominal diameter ⁄2 in.)
reinforcing steel, spaced 305 mm (12 in.) on center in perpendicular directions. The center of the reinforcing steel shall be located
at the mid-depth between the exposed and unexposed surfaces of the slab.
9.2.4 There shall be a minimum of nine thermocouples positioned within the horizontal, or vertical, standardized concrete slab,
evenly distributed on the reinforcing steel closest to the heating conditions and a minimum of nine evenly distributed at the
interface between the concrete and the fire-resistive material. If the system has joints, an additional five thermocouples shall be
located behind the joints. The thermocouples shall be type-K, chromel-alumel and shall be firmly affixed so as to not move during
the casting. The thermocouples shall be capable of being cast into the concrete without disturbing their operation. Route the
thermocouple leads parallel to the isothermal planes for a distance of 150 mm (6 in.) from the measuring junction to minimize error
associated with cooling from the leads.
9.2.5 The fire-resistive materials shall be attached or adhered to the slab in the same manner as is in intended applications.
9.2.6 Any surface preparation shall be as in intended applications.
9.2.7 Representative joints shall be included if the fire-resistive material system includes joints.
9.2.8 When spray applied materials are used, the horizontal or vertical structural assembly shall be positioned for applicati
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