Admixture producers get the green light to CE mark
October 28, 2004

The recent publication of EN 934, the harmonised European Standard for concrete and mortar admixtures, will now allow producers to CE mark their products, provided they are able to meet the new and stringent requirements.

Like the old British Standard 5075, the new standard has identification and performance related requirements. Unlike the old BS, however, it goes further in laying down a system for factory production control, backed by externally audited surveillance visits by an independent Notified Body.

The UK Cement Admixtures Association (CAA) has welcomed the new standard, which follows the same principles as those previously established by CAA members as part of the Associations independently audited Quality Scheme. The Association points out, however, that transition to the new standard will not be easy since it covers additional admixtures and new test methods that will require additional laboratory facilities and expertise.

BSI, who has just obtained Notified Body status for admixtures, is currently working with the producers to instigate the new quality systems that are needed before inspections of factory production control can start. While this is being set up the producers are carrying out the EN 934 Initial Type Testing to prove initial compliance of each product with the new standard.

It is hoped that all elements will come together in the autumn of 2002 when the first CE marks should start to appear. If the harmonisation programme run smoothly, CAA members anticipate that all the admixtures covered by EN 934 should be CE marked by this time next year.

BS 5075 has already been withdrawn, which means that no new admixture testing can be carried out to this standard. Existing BS 5075 certificates, however, will continue to be valid for the transition period while both the admixture and concrete industries convert to the new standards. During this time compliance with BS 5075 and EN 934 should be taken as equivalent and interchangeable within concrete specifications.

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