Crushed Concrete – What Is It?
Recycled aggregate for sustainable construction and sub-base applications
Recycled Crushed Concrete Aggregate
What It's Used For
Crushed concrete is a sustainable alternative to virgin aggregates for non-critical applications.
- Temporary haul roads
- Site compounds and hard standings
- Bulk fill and raising levels
- Sub-base for car parks
- Farm tracks and yards
- Trench backfill
- Piling mats
- General construction fill
Material Composition
Processed from demolition concrete, crushed and graded to specification.
- Crushed concrete and brick
- Maximum 10% brick content (6F2)
- Graded 75mm down to dust
- Contains binding fines
- Self-compacting properties
- Free from contaminants
6F2 vs 6F5 Grades
Understanding the different recycled aggregate specifications.
- 6F2: 0-75mm well graded (most common)
- 6F5: 0-125mm for heavy duty use
- 6F2 similar to MOT Type 1 performance
- 6F5 for thicker lift applications
- Both self-bind when compacted
- 6F2 preferred for most applications
Environmental Benefits
Choosing recycled aggregate supports circular economy and reduces landfill.
- 100% recycled from demolition waste
- Reduces quarrying of virgin materials
- Lower carbon footprint
- WRAP Protocol compliant
- Contributes to BREEAM credits
- Cost-effective alternative
Technical Specifications
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Classification | 6F2 (Recycled Aggregate) |
| Maximum Size | 75mm (6F2) / 125mm (6F5) |
| Grading | Well-graded from maximum size to dust |
| Composition | Min 90% concrete, Max 10% brick/masonry |
| Contaminants | Less than 1% other materials |
| CBR Value | Typically 20-40% when compacted |
| Standards | WRAP Quality Protocol compliant |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is crushed concrete as good as MOT Type 1?
For most applications, 6F2 crushed concrete performs similarly to Type 1 - both compact well and provide stable sub-base. However, Type 1 is preferred for highways and critical structural work. 6F2 is perfect for car parks, site roads, and general construction where cost savings matter.
Can crushed concrete be used near buildings?
Not recommended directly against foundations due to potential sulfate content from gypsum in demolished plasterboard. Keep minimum 500mm away from concrete structures or use sulfate-resistant cement. Fine for general hardstanding and access roads.
How much crushed concrete do I need?
Similar coverage to Type 1: approximately 2.1-2.2 tonnes per 10m² at 100mm compacted depth. 6F2 typically compacts by 25-30%. For temporary roads, use 150-200mm compacted depth. Always order 10% extra for wastage and grading.
Does crushed concrete drain well?
When compacted, 6F2 becomes relatively impermeable like Type 1 due to fines content. For drainage applications, use clean recycled concrete without fines (6-40mm). Standard 6F2 is designed to compact and shed water, not absorb it.
What's the environmental benefit?
Using recycled aggregate diverts approximately 1.5 tonnes of waste from landfill per tonne used. Reduces CO2 by avoiding quarrying and virgin aggregate transport. Typically 20-40% cheaper than virgin materials. Contributes to sustainability targets and BREEAM assessments.
Is testing documentation available?
Yes - all recycled aggregate comes with waste transfer documentation and WRAP Protocol compliance certificates. Testing shows grading analysis, contamination levels, and sulfate content. Essential for commercial projects requiring audit trails.
Need Crushed Concrete?
Sustainable 6F2 recycled aggregate. Save money, save the environment.
📞Call NowOffice Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm | Saturday 8am-1pm
