Petrographic Analysis Provides Critical Engineering Answers

EMSL Analytical provides petrographic analysis of concrete, mortar, cement and soils.

Westmont, NJ

Concrete products are major components of our modern infrastructure from highways and bridges to concrete buildings. Petrographic analysis is a crucial component for both quality control and failure analysis of the concrete and related products used to construct this very infrastructure. The analysis provides the fundamental answers of material characterization and in the case of failure analysis, why the material failed to perform.

Among many other materials’ testing specialties, EMSL Analytical conducts petrographic analysis of cement products to determine the type and concentration of its components. Identification of the mineralogical components (quartz, calcite, portlandite, calcium silicates), particle size, porosity and mechanic properties are among some of the characteristics of interest to engineers and other material specialists.

The analysis is routinely used to verify that a blend of concrete has been mixed to the correct specifications required for a project or to determine the characteristics of an existing material so that repairs or other functions can be performed on an existing structure.

This process is also commonly used when repairing buildings of historical significance. Elemental mapping aids in the viewing the particle sizes and distribution. Individual grains of quartz, calcite and binders can be clearly seen in the maps from a mortar of historical significance making accurate restoration possible.

EMSL Analytical, one of the nation’s premier testing laboratories, has almost three decades of experience providing analytical answers to customers‘ questions. “Petrographic analysis requires special expertise and the most advanced instrumentation,” reported Joe Frasca, Executive Vice President for EMSL Analytical. “EMSL’s scientists have the experience and knowledge to solve the most complex projects,” Frasca continued.

EMSL’s network of nearly 40 laboratories in the United States and Canada have been providing quality analytical services since 1981. To learn more about petrographic analysis or other testing needs please visit www.EMSL.com, email info@EMSL.com or call (800) 220-3675.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of consumer product, environmental, industrial hygiene, food and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

To learn more about EMSL Analytical please visit:
www.EMSL.com or www.LATesting.com, or contact EMSL at (800) 220-3675 or info@EMSL.com.

Contact Information

Joe Frasca

Senior Vice President, Marketing

EMSL Analytical, Inc.

Contact via E-mail