The second generation of Eurocode 2 in practice – opportunities and challenges

The upcoming introduction of the second generation of Eurocode 2 marks a significant step for concrete construction in Europe towards greater practical relevance, cost-effectiveness and important adaptations to new construction methods. The new version of the standard, which is expected to be implemented in Germany in 2027, including a national annex, will bring structural and content-related changes and innovations. In addition to new verification formats, expanded material models and updated design procedures, this affects both the limit states of load-bearing capacity (e.g. punching, shear force, anchors) and serviceability (e.g. crack width and deflection limits). At the same time, the new Eurocode 2 opens up a wide range of possibilities for integrating more sustainable construction methods and innovative building materials – for example, by taking into account non-metallic reinforcement, shortened bond lengths or CO₂-reduced materials.

The upcoming changeover poses a considerable challenge, particularly for planning offices and construction companies in the field of prefabricated construction. Established processes in design, dimensioning and production must be adapted to the new requirements – but this also brings with it new opportunities to improve your own products through positive effects on processes along the entire value chain.

The aim of the project is to systematically analyse the normative changes for the most important fields of application at an early stage, evaluate them in a practical manner and, in close cooperation with the participating partners  Leviat, KLEUSBERG, HOCHTIEF PPP Solutions, JOHANN BUNTE and the Institute of Structural Concrete of RWTH Aachen University, transfer them to specific applications. The focus is on the partners’ real products and work processes, which are used to clearly identify the differences between the existing version (DIN EN 1992-1-1:2011 incl. NA) and the new version (prEN 1992-1-1:2023). Using selected design examples, the effects on practice can be demonstrated in a targeted manner and new potential – for example, in terms of resource efficiency or CO₂ reduction – can be identified.

By preparing the findings early on in a form tailored to the target group, practical assistance for implementation is developed and made available to the participating members even before the building regulations are introduced. In this way, the project not only supports the transition to compliance with standards, but also strategic preparation for tomorrow’s competition – technically, economically and in terms of sustainability.