ISO 3869:2017

Overview

ISO 3869:2017 specifies requirements for agglomerated (composition) cork used as expansion joint fillers in construction, primarily between concrete elements or other building products. The standard defines material types, key mechanical characteristics, dimensional tolerances, packaging and marking requirements to ensure reliable performance of cork-based expansion joint systems.

Key Topics and Technical Requirements

ISO 3869 covers the following technical topics and test-based requirements (tests referenced to ISO 3867):

• Types

  • Type II - composition cork
  • Type III - self‑expanding cork

• Materials

  • Made from clean granulated cork bonded with a non‑soluble synthetic resin.
  • Sheets or preformed strips must resist deformation and breakage during normal handling and exposure.

• Dimensions and tolerances

  • Declared sizes agreed between supplier and customer.
  • Standard tolerances: length ±6 mm, width ±3 mm, thickness ±1.5 mm.

• Mechanical properties

  • Recovery after compression: not less than 90% of initial thickness.
  • Compression resistance: between 340 kPa and 1 035 kPa.
  • Extrusion (material squeezed out under load): maximum 6 mm.
  • Expansion in water (self‑expanding cork): thickness increase ≥140% of initial thickness.
  • Apparent density to be declared by the manufacturer.

• Packaging and marking

  • Store and transport on pallets or flat surfaces to avoid breakage/permanent deformation.
  • Self‑expanding cork must be wrapped in waterproof paper and sealed to prevent moisture ingress.
  • Packages must be marked with reference to ISO 3869, product designation, manufacturer identification and source/origin.

Applications and Who Uses This Standard

ISO 3869 is essential for ensuring consistent, fit‑for‑purpose expansion joint fillers in civil and structural construction. Typical users include:

• Manufacturers and suppliers of agglomerated cork products
• Structural and civil engineers specifying concrete expansion joint materials
• Architects and façade consultants
• Contractors and installers applying expansion joint fillers on site
• Quality assurance teams and procurement specialists verifying compliance

Common applications: movement joints in concrete pavements, bridge decks, precast concrete elements, building façades and other joints requiring compressible, resilient fillers.

Related Standards

• ISO 3867 - Composition cork - Expansion joint fillers - Test methods (referenced for testing)
• ISO 633 - Cork - Vocabulary
• ASTM D1752a - Comparable specification referenced in the ISO bibliography

Keywords: ISO 3869, agglomerated cork, expansion joint filler, composition cork, self‑expanding cork, concrete expansion joints, packaging and marking.