Carbonation testing measures the depth to which carbon dioxide has penetrated concrete and reduced its alkalinity. This is important because carbonation can lower the protective environment around reinforcement, increasing the risk of steel corrosion once carbonation reaches the depth of the reinforcement. The results are used to assess durability, corrosion risk, and the need for protective or remedial measures.
Cement content testing determines the amount of cement present within concrete, which influences strength, durability, and resistance to environmental exposure. This testing is often used to assess compliance with specifications, investigate suspected poor-quality concrete, and support durability and service-life assessments.
Chloride ion testing determines the concentration of chlorides within concrete, which are a primary cause of reinforcement corrosion. Chlorides may be introduced through marine exposure, de-icing salts, or contaminated materials. This testing is critical for assessing corrosion risk, informing repair strategies, and determining whether concrete meets durability requirements.
Compressive strength testing measures the load-carrying capacity of concrete by testing extracted core samples in a laboratory. This provides definitive information on the in-situ strength of concrete and is used to verify design assumptions, assess structural adequacy, and support decisions relating to load increases, alterations, or change of use.
High Alumina Cement (HAC) determination is carried out to identify the presence of HAC within concrete, a material historically used but known to lose strength over time due to conversion. Identifying HAC is essential for assessing structural safety, particularly in older buildings, and for determining whether further investigation, monitoring, or remedial action is required.
Moisture content testing measures the amount of water present within concrete, which can influence corrosion risk, coating performance, and internal environmental conditions. Understanding moisture levels is important for diagnosing defects, planning repairs, and determining the suitability of protective systems or finishes.
Mixed mortar analysis is used to assess the composition and condition of mortars used within masonry or composite structures. The testing helps identify binder type, mix proportions, and potential incompatibilities, which is essential when specifying compatible repair materials and ensuring long-term performance.
Petrographic testing involves microscopic examination of concrete to identify its constituent materials, condition, and deterioration mechanisms. It provides detailed insight into issues such as ASR, sulphate attack, poor compaction, or material defects, making it a vital tool for diagnosing the cause of concrete deterioration and guiding appropriate remediation.
Sulphide testing assesses the presence of sulphides within concrete, which can contribute to chemical attack, reinforcement corrosion, and long-term deterioration. This testing is particularly important where ground conditions, groundwater, or historic materials may present an aggressive environment, helping to inform durability assessments and repair design.
Tensile strength testing measures the resistance of concrete to tensile forces, often through indirect methods such as splitting tensile tests. This information is important for understanding cracking behaviour, assessing structural performance, and supporting engineering analysis where tensile capacity is a critical consideration.
Total alkali testing measures the alkali content of concrete, which is a key factor in assessing the risk of Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR). Elevated alkali levels can react with certain aggregates, causing expansion and cracking. The results are used alongside petrographic analysis to evaluate ASR risk and inform long-term management strategies.