Endurance testing
Durability tests measure frost resistance, abrasion resistance, resistance to salt crystallization, and other properties. INSPECT is one of the only companies in Belgium with the ability to precisely measure dynamic modulus of elasticity, an important assessment factor in determining frost resistance.
INSPECT has the necessary climate-controlled test facilities for conducting freeze-thaw tests, in accordance with Belgian and European standards. During these tests, rocks are subjected to various phases of freezing, thawing and immersion in water, while the temperature is closely monitored in the test specimens themselves. Furthermore, other climatic influences can be tested, such as resistance to thermal shock.
1. Testing freeze-thaw cycle
In our climate, frost-resistant materials are important. This test measures whether a material can withstand repeated freezing and thawing without cracking.
How does it work?
The material is frozen and thawed several times in a lab setting.
Afterwards, it will be checked for damage.
Example:
Bricks with high frost resistance are often used for exterior walls.
2. Salts
In addition to freeze-thaw cycles, the presence of salts in the environment of natural stone can also cause problems. Appropriate tests can determine how resistant a rock is to the presence of such salts.
When salts are already present, they can be sampled and analyzed to match the test setup to the real situation.