Properties and tests of recycled aggregates used in concrete

In many European countries recycled construction and demolition waste is used as a secondary raw material in the building industry because of environmental and economic reasons. Using recycled aggregates in concrete helps to reduce the pressure on landfilling sites for which the available space is getting scares. It also leads to a sustainable materials management in the building industry with a focus on achieving end-of-waste criteria and closing the loop. Potential use of recycled aggregate into constructions is related to the quality of recycled material. For this reason it is important to thoroughly test recycled aggregates. Appropriate tests are described in the European Standards EN 12620 for aggregates for concrete. [1] Latest version allows recycled aggregates for concrete to be tested the same way as natural aggregates. Properties of recycled aggregates which are convenient for use in concrete are introduced in an additional standard which is specific for each country. This paper includes a list of important tests on recycled aggregates. Further, the standards concerning the properties of recycled aggregates which are used in different countries are compared. In conclusion the most important tests are selected and the most important properties of recycled aggregates produced in different European countries are compared.status: publishe