Identification of unknown stony materials
Unknown natural stone types in buildings and monuments can be identified by INSPECT. This can be done both in-situ by a site visit and macroscopic identification, possibly combined with thorough studies of literature and distribution areas of rocks.
If necessary, petrographic analysis is performed, using the smallest possible sample of the rock.
Finding out possible replacement materials
After identification, it can be determined if and how a rock can be replaced within a renovation. First and foremost, we check whether the material itself is still available.
When this is no longer the case, we look for suitable replacement materials with which to continue the renovation project.
Damage assessment includes a thorough description of the weathering patterns and their cause in order to reduce or avoid further damage.
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1
Sampling
First, a representative sample of the stony material is taken. This can be a piece of concrete, a brick or a piece of natural stone.
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2
Prepare
The sample is cut into microscopically thin slices. These slices are placed on a glass slide and polished for viewing under the microscope.
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3
Microscopic examination
A special microscope is used to study the minerals and the structure of the material.
Among other things, the microscope shows how light is refracted through the material, making different minerals recognizable.
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4
Analysis and reporting
The results of the survey are analyzed and recorded in a report. This contains the mineralogical composition, any abnormalities and recommendations for further action.
Among other things, the microscope shows how light is refracted through the material, making different minerals recognizable.
What is mainly being researched?
During a petrographic survey, different aspects of a stony material are examined:
- Mineralogical composition: what minerals are present and in what quantities?
- Texture and structure: how are the minerals arranged? Are there cavities, cracks or other irregularities?
- Weathering and damage: Are there signs of weathering, such as cracks, discoloration or deterioration from chemical reactions?
- Manufacturing defects and quality checks: in concrete, for example, poor mixing or improper curing can be detected
Restoration materials re-mapping
Natural stone identification is mainly used in the context of monument restorations. Often in such historic structures, unknown, ancient stony materials surface.
We then have the necessary know-how to trace the origin and composition of these historic building materials, on the one hand.