What is BS EN 1097-5 - Determination of the water content of aggregates about?
BS EN 1097 is a European Standard on tests for mechanical and physical properties of aggregates. The main aim of the BS EN 1097 series is to provide the best industry guidance to ensure construction materials contribute to the structural integrity of civil engineering works.
BS EN 1097-5 is the fifth part of the BS EN 1097 series that describes the reference method used for type testing and in cases of dispute for the determination of the water content of aggregates by drying in a ventilated oven.
For other purposes, in a particular factory production control, other methods may be used provided that an appropriate working relationship with the reference method has been established.
Who is BS EN 1097-5 - Determination of the water content of aggregates for?
BS EN 1097-5 on the determination of water content of aggregates is useful for:
- Construction materials manufacturers and suppliers
- Bituminous binder and aggregate manufacturers
- Mineral materials and products manufacturers
- Construction industry
- Civil engineers
- Contractors
- Cement production companies
- Quality control and testing authorities
Why should you use BS EN 1097-5 - Determination of the water content of aggregates?
Water absorption provides indications on the internal structure of aggregates. Generally, aggregates having higher absorption are more porous and are thus considered as unsuitable. The moisture content in aggregate is used to determine the binder content for hot mix asphalt (HMA) during production of the mixture in a plant. In this regard, the oven-drying method provides a measure of the total free water present in a test portion of aggregate. The water can be from the surface of the aggregate and from water accessible pores within the aggregate particles.
BS EN 1097-5 provides the requirements for apparatus, reagents, test preparation and test procedure to evaluate the water content of aggregates. This assessment can help determine whether they can play a positive role in concrete performance.
As a result, if you are a manufacturer of aggregates, testing in compliance with BS EN 1097-5 can demonstrate the performance and quality of your products.
By determining the water content of aggregates by drying them in a ventilated oven, you can ultimately assess whether your construction materials are fit for use. Moreover, this assessment can also play a significant role in improving the design mix for optimal concrete performance.
