How much does a m3 of crushed concrete weigh?

Crushed Concrete: How Much Does a Cubic Meter Really Weigh?

So, you’re thinking about using crushed concrete – or recycled concrete aggregate (RCA), as the pros call it – for your next project? Smart move! It’s becoming super popular these days, and for good reason: it’s a greener option than virgin materials. But before you load up the truck, you’re probably wondering, “Just how heavy is this stuff?” Good question. Let’s break it down.

The quick answer? A cubic meter of crushed concrete averages around 2,400 kilograms. Think of it this way: that’s about the weight of a small car! But here’s the thing: that’s just an average. The actual weight can bounce around a bit, and that’s where things get interesting. In pounds per cubic foot, you’re looking at roughly 150 pcf.

What makes the weight change? A bunch of stuff, actually. It’s not as simple as you might think.

First off, what was the original concrete made of? Was it packed with steel rebar? That’ll definitely make it heavier. Think of it like adding weights to a workout. And what kind of rocks were used in the mix? Heavy hitters like granite and basalt will give you a denser, heavier crushed concrete. Lighter rocks? You guessed it – lighter end result.

Then there’s the crushing process itself. How finely was it ground? Tiny pieces snuggle together more tightly, which means more weight packed into that cubic meter. Bigger chunks leave more air gaps, so less weight overall. It’s like comparing a jar full of sand to a jar full of pebbles.

And don’t forget moisture. Damp concrete is heavier than dry concrete. Water fills those little gaps, adding to the weight. But be careful! Too much water and you’re asking for trouble – think erosion and instability. It’s a balancing act.

Compaction is another biggie. Imagine loosely piling the crushed concrete versus really packing it down. The more you compact it, the denser it becomes, and the more it weighs. You can use vibrating machines or even just good old-fashioned tamping to get it nice and tight.

Finally, think about what else might be mixed in. Were there any weird additives in the original concrete? Any unexpected materials? All that stuff can tweak the final weight.

Why does any of this matter? Well, density is king when it comes to figuring out what crushed concrete is good for. High density means it can handle heavy loads – perfect for construction. But density also affects how well water drains. Denser materials drain slower, which can be a plus for things like road bases where you don’t want the water running away too quickly.

Okay, so how do you figure out how much you need? Simple formula:

Weight = Volume x Density

Let’s say you need 5 cubic meters, and you’re using that average density of 2,400 kg/m3. Boom! You’re looking at 12,000 kg total.

Pro tip: If you really want to be precise, ask your supplier for the specific density of their crushed concrete. If not, that 2,400 kg/m3 average is a pretty safe bet for most projects. Just remember, the density usually sits somewhere between 1.5 and 2.2 tonnes per cubic meter. When in doubt, I usually ballpark it at 2.0 tonnes per cubic meter for general planning.

Bottom line? Knowing the weight of crushed concrete is key for any construction or landscaping job. While that 2,400 kg/m3 average is a good starting point, digging into the factors that can change that number will help you make smarter decisions and avoid costly surprises. Happy building!