Physical testing of materials can be performed to determine the rate of failure of nearly any substance.  Concrete cores are routinely examined by compression analysis to determine their maximum load at failure.  Polymers can be tested for tension and elasticity while steel is examined for tension and torsion limits.

Mortar on buildings of historical significance is routinely tested for compressive strength by methods ASTM C270, and ASTM C579.

Compression testing of cement and mortar can be combined with the Petrographic Examination.  This powerful set of tests will determine not only the Compressive Strength of the mortar but will identify all of the components, calculate the porosity and fractures, quantitate the amount of caustic substances such as sulfates and salts and identify any possible problems such as non-homogeneous mixtures and soft mortar.

Call your EMSL representative for pricing or the Materials Science Division with any questions at 1-800-220-3675

Cement cores removed from existing roads or mold- poured for new construction are tested by ASTM C579 method to determine the maximum compressive strength of 4" and 6" cores.