New concrete standard

With the publication of the new concrete standard NBN B 15-001, a lot of new possibilities and improvements were again unleashed on the concrete world. Along with the publication of the brand new NBN B 15-105, sustainability and circularity are also getting a boost by now allowing alternative aggregates in addition to the use of new binders. "A concrete producer can use this methodology to produce concrete with a higher content of recycled concrete and mixed aggregates than what the concrete standard currently allows," said Caroline Ladang, director of BE-CERT.The new version of the BENOR regulations for ready-mixed concrete 'TRA 550 v5.0' contains all the necessary adaptations for the application of both these standards. But this new version goes a lot further than that: the inspection scheme has been thoroughly redesigned, with more focus on the certified product. And the unthinkable becomes possible: no more uncontrollable water additions on site, due to the physical disconnection of the coupling between the water vessel and the mixer tank.

The new version of the BENOR regulations for ready-mixed concrete 'TRA 550 v5.0' contains all the necessary adjustments for the application of both these standards. But this new version goes a lot further than that: the control scheme has been thoroughly redesigned, with more focus on the certified product. And the unthinkable becomes possible: no more uncontrollable water additions on site, due to the physical disconnection of the coupling between the water vessel and the mixer tank.

In July 2022, the new version of the concrete standard NBN B 15-001:2022 was published. Although this version, like its 2018 predecessor, complements EN 206, there was nevertheless a need among Belgian stakeholders for a number of significant modifications and additions, which have now also been fully integrated into TRA 550 v.5.0. A first set of adaptations was prompted by evolving needs in quality assurance and its practical implementation in the field. Thus, we first note the introduction of preferred guideline values for consistency. The introduction of clear classes with designations that immediately refer to the application will more easily guide the prescriber to the correct specification. In addition, a whole new appendix was devoted to the proper design and control of fiber concrete. By respecting a number of concrete technologically important design parameters, the concrete manufacturer can better guarantee the homogeneous distribution of the fibers in the concrete, and consequently the performance of this concrete, which translates into a reduction in (self-) inspection frequencies.

A second set of adaptations and additions is located in the context of ecological sustainability. The permitted binders are expanded, with the new cements according to NBN EN 197-5. For fly ash with co-firing, the experience gained over many years is now honored in a simplification of the suitability examination, which no longer needs to be carried out according to NBN B 15-100. For alternative inert materials, it is provided that the suitability for use can be demonstrated according to the new standard NBN B 15-105, so that these innovative raw materials can also be applied under the BENOR mark. Of course, in these developments the quality guarantee remains central, so that the new TRA 550 imposes the conditions and rules to be able to work with this in practice.

From the concrete sector, the call had been coming for some time to adjust the inspection scheme and focus more on the inspection of the certified product. Superfluous administrative hassle could be omitted; what is important is that the client receives a product that meets the specification and desired properties in function of processing and application. The new control scheme meets this call. The technical control visits were regrouped into thematic visits, which zoom in on a specific part of the process (ITT, self-checking, procedures, etc.) so that control can take place with the right interlocutor and in an efficient manner. The number of external samplings was increased and fixed according to the production volume.

On Jan. 1, 2023, the new scheme started. For technical adaptations to the new standard, some more time will be given so that manufacturers can align their products and processes with it.