13 december 2016
Next year RHP will start research into tree sand in the ‘RAG Landscaping m3 Box’. RHP has been using this measuring method for tree granulate for about two years. This measurement provides insight in the physical properties of the substrate that are important for both the grey industry (load-bearing capacity roads for traffic) and the green industry (optimal growth circumstances for trees and plants).
The measuring method with the ‘RAG Landscaping m3 Box’ of RHP gives a direct idea of some physical properties of the substrate: load-bearing capacity, pore volume, water permeability and water capacity. Load-bearing capacity is important for the load of, for instance, cars. The other properties are important for optimal growth conditions of, for instance, trees in the street or along the bicycle path.
The developments of new recipes for tree granulate went fast at certified companies in the last two years. This is because with the ‘RAG Landscaping m3 Box’ tests can be executed quickly and reliably. As experience has been acquired with tree granulate, it’s tree sand’s turn next year.
The raw materials, mixtures and methods for tree sand have changed the past decades, but the standards have never been changed. The research in tree sand the next year gives a direct image of the physical properties and could possibly lead to a new standard for tree sand. The standard that RHP drew up for tree granulate is included by more and more local governments in their plans.
