What is BS EN 13286‑41 about?
BS EN 13286‑41 is the 41st part of a multi-series of documents that is applicable to unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures. BS EN 13286‑41 describes a test method for the determination of the compressive strength of specimens of hydraulically bound mixtures.
Note: BS EN 13286‑41 applies to specimens manufactured in the laboratory or prepared from cores.
Who is BS EN 13286‑41 for?
BS EN 13286‑41 on compressive strength testing on unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures is relevant to:
- Manufacturers and suppliers of unbound and hydraulically bound mixtures
- Suppliers of binders such as cement, fly-ash needed to make hydraulically bound mixtures
- Civil engineers
- Contractors
- Highway and road transport authorities
Why should you use BS EN 13286‑41?
A hydraulically bound mixture is a mixture of aggregate, water and hydraulic binder and is one of the most commonly used materials in pavement sub-base layers where cement-treated bases or cement-bound materials have traditionally been used. For the optimum functioning of hydraulically bound mixtures, water content is an important factor as it decides on the hardness of the material that gains strength over time by creating interlocking bonds.
BS EN 13286-41 provides guidance on conducting the test method to determine durability of the specimens of hydraulically bound mixtures. As per the test, a specimen is subjected to a compressive force until failure. The maximum load sustained by the specimen is recorded and the compressive strength is calculated. You will also be informed about the details regarding compression testing machine, loading and positioning for accuracy. The compressive strength, also denoted as Rc.
Thus, BS EN 13286-41 ensures quality and performance of the construction material while also reducing the cost of material production by eliminating need for repaving projects due to an extended service-life.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN 13286‑41:2021 supersedes BS EN 13286‑41:2003, which is withdrawn. BS EN 13286-41:2021 has been editorially revised.  The following changes have been made in comparison with EN 13286-41:2003:  
- Editorial changes
- To cater for the wide range of strengths possible for hydraulically bound mixtures – from < 1 MPa to 50 MPa or more - an increase in the permitted ‘time window’ for rupture of the specimen.
