BS EN 520:2004 + A1:2009 : Gypsum plasterboards. Definitions, requirements and test methods
Gypsum plasterboards are composed of a plaster core encased in , and firmly bonded to paper liners to form flat rectangular boards.
EN 520 specifies the characteristics and performance of gypsum plasterboards intended to be used in building construction works including those intended for secondary manufacturing operations. It includes boards designed to receive either direct surface decoration or gypsum plaster.
The standard covers the following product characteristics: reaction to fire, water vapor permeability, flexural strength (breaking load), impact resistance and thermal resistance.
The following performance characteristics are linked to systems assembled with plasterboards: shear strength, fire resistance, impact resistance, direct airborne sound insulation and acoustic absorption to be measured according to the corresponding European test methods. If required, tests should be done on assembled systems simulating the end use conditions.
The standard does not cover plasterboards, which have been subject to any secondary manufacturing operations (e. g. insulating composite panels, plasterboards with thin lamination, etc.).
Mechanical properties in this standard:
- flexural strength (bending strength)
- deflection under load
- shear strength (strength of board/substructure connection)
EN 520: Gypsum Plasterboard
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Manufactured products from secondary processing:
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Thermal / acoustic composite panels: EN 13950
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Products from reprocessing ( tiles, panels, thin laminates, etc): EN 14190
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Prefabricated partition panels: EN 13915
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Ancillary products:
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Gypsum based adhesives: EN 14496
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Preformed cornices: EN 14209
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Jointing materials: EN 13963
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Metal framing components: EN 14195
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Metal beads and feature profiles: EN 14353
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Mechanical fasteners: EN 14566
Some references:
EN 336, Structural timber – Sizes, permitted deviations
EN 338, Structural timbers- Strength classes
EN 1995-1-1, Eurocode 5- Design of timber structures
EN ISO 20535, Paper and board- Determination of water absorptiveness- Cobb method ( ISO 535: 1991)