This European Standard specifies the properties of aggregates and filler aggregates obtained by processing natural, manufactured or recycled materials and mixtures of these aggregates for use in hydraulically bound and unbound materials for civil engineering works. It also covers recycled aggregates with particle densities between 1,50 Mg/m³ (1 500 kg/m³) and 2,00 Mg/m³ (2 000 kg/m³).

A list of the source materials that have been considered and indicating those which are within the scope of this standard is given in Annex A (normative).

Requirements for the evaluation of conformity of the products to this European Standard are given in EN 16236.

This European Standard does not cover the grading properties of unbound mixtures as specified in EN 13285.

It incorporates a general requirement that aggregates will not release any dangerous substances in excess of the maximum permitted levels specified in a relevant European Standard for the material or permitted in the national regulations of the member state of destination.

The tables in this standard include categories which are common across the four main aggregate standards: EN 12620, EN 13043, EN 13139 and EN 13242. Not all of these categories are appropriate for aggregates for use in hydraulically bound and unbound materials for civil engineering works and road constructions. Categories, notes, comments etc, which are shown grey shaded should not be used for aggregates for use in hydraulically bound and unbound materials for civil engineering works and road constructions.

Aggregates used in hydraulically bound and unbound materials for civil engineering works should comply with all the requirements of this European Standard. The standard includes comprehensive and specific requirements for natural aggregates, iron and steel making slag and recycled aggregates, dealing with, for example, the stability of certain basalts, the expansion of certain slags and the constitution of recycled aggregates.

For materials from some other secondary sources, however, work is ongoing and the requirements are incomplete. In the meantime, such materials, when placed on the market as aggregates, should conform fully to this standard but may also be required to conform to specific relevant additional requirements at the place of use. Additional characteristics and requirements may be specified on a case by case basis depending upon experience of use of the product, and defined in specific contractual documents.

Requirements for the declaration of the potential of aggregates to release regulated dangerous substances are currently under development. Until such time as these are finalised, attention should be paid to requirements at the place of use.