steenzand
Steenzand is a term used in the Netherlands to refer to a specific type of building material. It is a coarse sand mixture that contains small fragments of stones and gravel. This composition makes it heavier and more stable than regular building sand. Steenzand is commonly used in construction for applications that require good drainage and load-bearing capacity, such as foundation layers, sub-bases for roads and pavements, and as fill material. Its angular particles interlock well, providing excellent compaction and resistance to settlement. The exact composition of steenzand can vary depending on the source of the aggregate, but it generally consists of durable mineral fragments. It is an essential component in many civil engineering projects and landscaping applications where a robust and stable base is needed. The term is specifically Dutch and not widely used in English-speaking countries, where similar materials might be referred to as aggregate, crushed stone, or granular fill.