Research composition of rocks
When renovating old buildings or monuments, it is crucial to know what materials they are made of. This helps in choosing the right repair methods and materials. Incorrect choices can lead to damage or even collapse. Material testing can also help ensure quality in new structures.
1. Examination through X-rays
INSPECT can determine both elemental or mineralogical composition of rocks or salts. Using X-ray methods such as XRD (X-ray diffraction) or XRF (X-ray fluorescence), minerals on the one hand and the occurrence of elements on the other can be determined.
If necessary, micro-XRF or electron microscopy combined with EDS can be used to obtain a spatial distribution of constituents.
2. Salt analyses
If salts are present in a rock, they can be sampled and then analyzed for their composition using, for example, ion chromatography. Whatever the mineralogical or chemical problem, INSPECT devises an appropriate analysis path in consultation with the client in order to achieve a correct result as quickly and efficiently as possible.