Concrete petrography (micro structure)
- Identification of phases, magnifications
- Cement types
- Degree of hydration
- Puzzolans
- Capillarity, equivalent W/C ratio, paste density
- Microstructure development
- Dispersion levels, homogeneity, connectivity
- Cracks
- Bonding and de-bonding phenomena
- Quantitative analysis, image analysis systems
- Carbonation, diagenesis, leaching, precipitation
- AAR, Sulphate attack, frost damage, DEF, fire attack
- Fibres
Concrete petrography (macro structure)
- Coarse aggregate parameters
- Distribution of constituent
- Compaction levels and flow characteristics
- Cracks
- AAR, frost damage, fire
Sample preparation
- Selection of samples and sub-samples
- Fracture surfaces
- Vacuum impregnations
- Thin section production, preparation defects
- Polished samples, contrast impregnation
Concrete technology
- Compositions of concrete
- The impact of composition on shrinkage and heat of hydration
- Rheology vs. packing
- The influence of powder designs
- Bonding influence on effective W/C ratio
- Compaction techniques in relation to micro structure
- Bleeding vs. 'dry porosities'
- Repairs and repair strategies
Equipment and set up
- Cutting, grinding and polishing machines
- Cooling media
- Polarization microscope, SEM, EDX, ESEM
- Filters and light sources for light microscopes and photo set-up
