The laboratory's services are provided in three areas of laboratory including materials resistance tests, chemistry and physics, soil mechanics and rock and non-destructive testing services.

 {tab title="strength of materials lab" alias="strength of materials lab"}

{slider title="Mechanics of Materials Laboratory" alias="Mechanics of Materials Laboratory"}

1.    Measuring tensile strength of steel (reinforcing bars, steel sheets, bolts and nuts)
According to ASTM A370, AASHTO T244 Standards
Scope
One of the mechanical properties of steel is tensile strength and this test method is intended to determine this parameter. During this test, steel specimens are pulled by testing machine until rupture occurs. Yield strength, tensile strength and elongation in breaking moment are determined.
  Maximum capacity of the tensile testing machine is up to 60 tons and the machine has the ability to display stress-strain curve as well as to record yield strength, determine tensile strength, and calculate elastic modulus of steel.  

2.     Bend and re-bend test of steel reinforcing bars for use in concrete reinforcement
According to ASTM A370, AASHTO T244 and INSO 3132 Standards
Scope
These standards and test methods cover procedures to determine mechanical properties of steels. Bar and rebar, plate, nuts yield and tensile strength, extension under load, bend and re-bend test, as well as bend test with the bend angle of 180° for cold-finished rebars.

3.    Determining creep of concrete in compression
According to ASTM C512
Scope
Designing concrete structures involves the use of stress-strain relationships and the behavior of concrete. Concrete is not necessarily elastic. Inelastic deformations increase with time as the concrete experiences a sustained load. These inelastic deformations, also known as creep, increase at a decreasing rate during the loading period.
This test method (ASTM C512) covers the determination of the creep of molded concrete cylinders subjected to sustained longitudinal compressive load. This test measures the load-induced time-dependent compressive strain at selected ages for concrete under an arbitrary set of controlled environmental conditions.
4.    Determining of the permeability of concrete to Oxygen gas
According to Camburea Method and UNI Standard
Scope
Permeability of concrete is an important performance value Permeability of concrete is the principal factor that provides their durability. Permeability indicates the movements of fluids into porous concrete area. This property of concrete gives information about microstructure and quality of the material. Considering the fact most of the chloride ion and aggressive sulphate ions that affect the durability of concrete permeate from outside the concrete, determination of permeability is essential for designing and construction of concrete structures. Air permeability of concrete results from this test in m2 unit.
In the concrete structures, concrete cover on rebar is considered as a protecting layer against rebar corrosion. This shallow area of concrete cover is exposed to penetration of oxygen, carbonic gas, and water. Penetration of carbonic gas and water may change concrete microstructure so that both of them are not suitable for repeatability of the test; therefore oxygen gas is considered the most suitable fluid for doing Permeability test.  

5.    Determining water Permeability of hardened concrete
According to CRD-C48 Standard
Scope
Permeability refers to the amount of water migration through concrete when the water is under pressure, and also the ability of concrete to resist penetration of any substance, liquid, gas, or chloride ion. Permeability is considered as the durability measure of concrete. One example is evaluating the amount of passing water through the concrete hydraulic structures (e.g. concrete dams) which indicates the necessity for determination of water permeability of concrete. It was based in Darcy’s law equation to calculate permeability values. This test covers the laboratory determination of the Darcy’s coefficient of water permeability of hardened concrete in m/s units.

6.    Determining  dynamic  modulus of elasticity from fundamental resonant frequency test
According to ASTM C215 Standard
Scope
The dynamic modulus of elasticity is used to compute durability factor of concrete specimens that are subjected to freezing-thawing cycles and weathering conditions. Durability factor is the ratio of the dynamic modulus at N cycles to the dynamic modulus at 0 cycles. This test method is intended primarily for detecting changes in the dynamic modulus of elasticity of laboratory or field test specimens that are undergoing exposure to weathering or other types of potentially deteriorating influences. The test method may also be used to monitor the development of dynamic elastic modulus with increasing maturity of test specimens. This test covers measurement of the fundamental transverse, longitudinal, and torsional resonant frequencies of concrete prisms and cylinders for the purpose of calculating dynamic Young’s modulus of elasticity, the dynamic modulus of rigidity (sometimes designated as “the modulus of elasticity in shear”), and dynamic Poisson’s ratio.                                
7.    Determining resistance of concrete to rapid freezing and thawing
According to ASTM C666 Standard
Scope
The decrease in durability can be evaluated by several methods. The most common is measuring the changes in dynamic modulus values. Reducing modulus values after cycles of Freezing and Thawing indicates reduction in concrete durability. In the ASTM C666 method, usually Freezing and Thawing cycles continue up to 300 cycles or until dynamic modulus of concrete specimen reduces to 60 percent of its initial value (whichever occurs first).
     
8.    Determining electrical indication of concrete’s ability to resist chloride ion penetration
According to ASTM C1202 Standard
Scope
Penetration of ions from concrete surface into the inner parts of concrete is one of the most important factors affecting durability of concrete structures exposed to various conditions like marine environments chloride migration through concrete is a very slow process. This test method accelerates this migration. An electrical current is applied to a concrete specimen, it increased and accelerate the rate at which the chlorides migrate into concrete. Based on FHWNRD-81/119 and the Iranian code for concrete durability in Persian Gulf and Oman sea, some criterions are presented to evaluate performance of concrete specimens exposed to penetration destructive ions, especially chloride ion permeability. This test method covers the laboratory evaluation of the electrical conductance of concrete samples to provide a rapid indication of their resistance to chloride ion penetration. The result report in coulombs (the integral of current vs. time plot) that were passed through the concrete sample. This test method does not measure concrete permeability. It does measure concrete resistivity and chloride permeability under 60 volt potential.
 
9.    Measuring tensile strength of concrete
According to CRD C164 Standard
Scope
Concrete is much weaker in tension than in compression. This test determines direct tensile strength of hardened cylindrical concrete specimens with different dimensions by dividing the maximum load carried by the specimen during test by the cross-sectional area.
10.    Determining the depth of penetration of water under pressure in hardened concrete
According to BS EN 12390-8 Standard
Scope
This test method can be used to determine the depth of water penetration in hardened cylindrical and cubic concrete specimens after applying water pressure to their surface. The maximum depth of penetration under the test area is measured and recorded to millimeter.
11.    Determining of flexural strength of concrete
According to ASTM C78, C293 Standards
Scope
Common method for determining flexural strength of concrete is bending test. When the concrete beam specimen is loaded under bending mode, tensile stresses are created at the bottom fibre of test beam and compressive stresses are created at the top fibre of the test beam. Since tensile strength is lower than the compressive strength, failure starts from the area in tension and therefore breaking load is dependent to the tensile strength. The maximum capacity of the machine used for determining flexural strength is up to 40 tons, and both 2 points and 3 points modes of loading can be performed. Based on the standard method used, flexural strength at middle or other parts of the specimen can be determined.

12.    Measuring tensile strength of  Waterstop and  Wiremesh
According to ASTM A370, AASHTO T244 and ASTM D412 Standards
Scope
One of the tests used for characterizing waterstop and wiremesh materials is tensile strength test. Similar to steel bars, specimens are pulled by tensile testing machine until rupture and yield strength, tensile strength and elongation at breaking moment is determined.
The tensile testing machine used for pulling wiremeshes, waterstops and steels which are wire shape has the maximum capacity of 5 tons and the machine can display stress-strain curve and determine mechanical properties of the tested materials.

13.    Waterstop quality control tests
Scope
The following standard methods are used to determine mechanical properties of waterstop materials.
1-    Determining tensile strength and ultimate elongation according to ASTM D412 standard
2-    Determining specific gravity according to ASTM D792 Standard
3-    Determining water absorption according to ASTM D570 Standard
4-    Determining hardness (Shore A) according to ASTM D2240 Standard
5-    Determining tear strength according to ASTM D624 Standard
6-    Determining effect of Alkalis according to CRD C572 Standard
7-    Determining bending modules according to ASTM D747 Standard
8-    Determining weight loss according to ASTM D1203 Standard
9-    Determining accelerated extraction according to CRD C572 Standard
10-    Determining brittleness at low temperature according to ASTM D746 Standard

14.    Determining the bending strength (modulus of rupture) of Terrazzo tiles
According to INSO 755-2 Standard
Scope
The main use of Terrazzo tiles is flooring the sidewalks and the other public places. One of the most important reasons for Terrazzo tile destruction is its weakness in bending mode of loading. Thus, determining the bending strength of Terrazzo tile will be necessary for quality control of this product.

{slider title="Asphalt" alias="Asphalt"}

Determining the Flexural Creep Stiffness of Asphalt Binder
Using the Bending Beam Rheometer (BBR)
AASHTO T313, ASTM D6648
This test method covers the determination of the flexural creep stiffness and m-value of asphalt binders by means of a bending beam rheometer. It can be used with unaged material or with materials aged using Rolling Thin Film Oven and Pressure Aging Vessel aging procedures.
The bending beam rheometer measures the midpoint deflection of a simply supported prismatic beam of asphalt binder subjected to a constant load applied to its midpoint. A prismatic test specimen is placed in the controlled temperature fluid bath and loaded with a constant test load for 240 s. The test load and the midpoint deflection of the test specimen are monitored versus time.
The low-temperature thermal cracking performance of asphalt pavements is related to the creep stiffness and the m-value of the asphalt binder.

Determining the Rheological Properties of Asphalt Binder
Using a Dynamic Shear Rheometer
AASHTO T315, ASTM D7175
This test method covers the determination of the dynamic shear modulus and phase angle of asphalt binders when tested in dynamic shear using parallel plate geometry. During the test, one of the parallel plates is oscillated with respect to the other at preselected frequencies and angular deflection amplitudes. The required amplitude is selected so that the testing is within the region of linear behavior.
The test temperature for this test is related to the temperature experienced by the pavement in the geographical area for which the asphalt binder is intended to be used. The complex shear modulus is an indicator of the stiffness or resistance of asphalt binder to deformation under load.

Determining the Fracture Properties of Asphalt Binder in Direct Tension (DT)
AASHTO T314, ASTM D6723
This test method covers the determination of the failure strain of asphalt binders test specimen pulled at a constant rate of elongation by means of a direct tension tester. It is used with materials aged using RTFO and PAV aging procedures.
A displacement transducer is used to measure the elongation of the test specimen as it is pulled in tension at a constant rate of 1.0 mm/min. The load developed during the test is monitored and the tensile strain in the test specimen when the load reaches a maximum is reported as the failure strain.

Test Method for Effect of Heat and Air on a Moving Film of Asphalt
(Rolling Thin Film Oven Test)
AASHTO T240, ASTM D2872
This test method is intended to measure the effect of heat and air on a moving film of asphalt binders. The test indicates approximate change in properties of asphalt during conventional hot-mixing. For testing, a moving film of asphalt binder is heated in a rolling thin film oven for 85 min at 163°C. The effects of heat and air are determined from measurement of asphalt properties, before and after the test. A procedure is also provided for determining the change in asphalt binder mass.
Accelerated Aging of Asphalt Binder Using a Pressurized Aging Vessel
AASHTO R28, ASTM D6521
This practice covers the accelerated aging of asphalt binders by means of pressurized air at elevated temperature. This test simulates the changes in rheology which occur in asphalt binders during in-service oxidative aging. Asphalt binder residue from the RTFOT is placed in standard steel pans and aged at the specified temperature for 20 hours in a vessel pressurized with air to 2.1 MPa. Residue from this practice is used to estimate the physical or chemical properties of asphalt binders after several years of in-service aging in the field.

Viscosity Determination of Asphalt at Elevated Temperatures Using a Rotational Viscometer
AASHTO T240, ASTM D2872
This test method covers a procedure for measuring the apparent viscosity of asphalt binders using a rotational viscometer and a temperature controlled thermal chamber for maintaining test temperature. The torque on the apparatus-measuring geometry, rotating in the sample of asphalt, is used to measure the relative resistance to rotation. The torque and rotating speed are used to determine the viscosity of the asphalt in pascal seconds.

Measuring Surface Frictional Properties Using the British Pendulum Tester
ASTM E303
This test method covers the procedure for measuring surface frictional properties using the British Pendulum Skid Resistance Tester. The British Pendulum is a dynamic pendulum impact-type tester used to measure the energy loss when a rubber slider edge is propelled over a test surface.
The test surface is cleaned and thoroughly wetted prior to testing. The pendulum slider is positioned to barely come in contact with the test surface prior to conducting the test. The pendulum is raised to a locked position and then released, thus allowing the slider to make contact with the test surface. A drag pointer indicates the British Pendulum Number. The greater the friction between the slider and the test surface, the more the swing is retarded, and the larger the BPN reading.

Determining Asphalt Content of Hot-Mix Asphalt by Ignition Method
ASTM D6307
This test method covers the determination of asphalt content of asphalt mixtures by removing the asphalt cement in an ignition furnace. This test method can be used for quantitative determination of asphalt content in HMA mixtures for quality control and specification acceptance. This test does not require the use of solvents. Aggregate obtained by this test method may be used for gradation analysis. For testing, the asphalt cement in the mixture is ignited using the furnace equipment and its content is calculated by difference from the mass of the residual aggregate.

Determining Toughness and Tenacity of Bituminous Materials
ASTM D5801
This test method covers a procedure for measuring the toughness and tenacity of bituminous materials. This test is useful in confirming that asphalt cement has been modified with a material that provides a significant elastomeric component. Elastomer modified asphalts can be characterized by their ability to be stretched to a large elongation while at the same time resisting further stretching. Toughness and tenacity are two parameters for measuring this ability. A tension head is pulled from asphalt sample at a rate of 50 cm/min. A continuous record of the force versus elongation curve is made and used to calculate the toughness and the tenacity of the sample at 25°C.

Preparation of Asphalt Mix Specimens by Means of the
Superpave Gyratory Compactor
AASHTO T312, ASTM D6925
This test method covers the compaction of asphalt mix into cylindrical specimens using the Superpave Gyratory Compactor (SGC). It is used to prepare specimens for determining the volumetric and physical properties of compacted asphalt mix. It also refers to the determination of the relative density of the compacted specimens at any point in the compaction process. Compacted specimens are suitable for volumetric, physical property, and mechanical testing.

Determining the Fatigue Life of Compacted Asphalt Mixtures
Subjected to Repeated Flexural Bending
AASHTO T321
This standard covers the procedure for determining the fatigue life and fatigue energy of asphalt mixture beam specimens sawed from laboratory compacted or field compacted asphalt mixtures and subjected to repeated flexural bending until failure. The fatigue life and failure energy determined by this test can be used to estimate the fatigue life of asphalt mixture pavement layers under repeated traffic loading.

Indirect Tension Test Method for Resilient Modulus of Asphalt Mixtures
ASTM D4123
This test method covers the procedures for preparing and testing of laboratory compacted asphalt mixtures or field recovered pavement cores to determine resilient modulus using the repeated load indirect tension test. The test is conducted by applying compressive loads with a haversine or other suitable waveform. The load is applied vertically in the vertical diametral plane of a cylindrical specimen. The resulting horizontal deformation of specimen is measured, and with an assumed Poisson’s ratio, is used to calculate the resilient modulus.
The values of resilient modulus can be used to evaluate the relative quality of material as well as to generate input data for pavement design. The test can also be used to study effects of temperature, loading rates, rest period and loading waveform.

Determining Resistance to Permanent Deformation of Asphalt Mixtures
Subject to Cyclic Compression Test
EN12697-25a, BS DD226
These test methods determine the resistance to permanent deformation of a cylindrical specimen of asphalt mixtures at temperatures and loads similar to those experienced in roads. These tests can be used to rank asphalt mixtures on the basis of resistance to permanent deformation, as a guide to relative performance in the pavement.
The unconfined repeated loading dynamic creep test is performed according to BS DD226 standard method and Uniaxial cyclic compression dynamic creep test with confinement is done according to EN 12697-25a standard method. A cylindrical test specimen, maintained at elevated conditioning temperature, is placed between two loading platens. Test specimens may be either prepared in the laboratory or be cored from a pavement. The specimen is subjected to cyclic axial block-pulse pressure. During the test the change in height of the specimen is measured at specified numbers of load applications and the cumulative axial strain of specimen is determined as a function of the number of load applications.

Hamburg Wheel-Track Testing of Compacted Hot Mix Asphalt
AASHTO T324
This method covers a procedure for testing the rutting and moisture susceptibility of hot mix asphalt samples in the Hamburg Wheel Tracking device. The test is used to determine the premature failure susceptibility of HMA due to weakness in the aggregate structure, inadequate binder stiffness, or moisture damage. This test measures the potential for moisture damage effects because the specimens can be submerged in temperature controlled water during loading.
The method includes the testing of submerged, compacted HMA in a reciprocating rolling-wheel device. Test specimen is repetitively loaded using a reciprocating steel wheel. The deformation of specimen, caused by the wheel loading, is measured. The impression is plotted as a function of the number of wheel passes. Test specimens can be either slab specimens prepared by a roller compactor, or cylindrical specimens by superpave gyratory compactor. Alternatively, field cores having a diameter of 150 mm, 250 mm, or 300 mm, or saw-cut slab specimens may be tested.

Laboratory-Scale Foamed Bitumen Production
Testing for Determining Cold Recycled Mixtures quality
Foamed bitumen is produced by injecting small quantities of water and compressed air in to hot bitumen. The water evaporates, causing the bitumen to foam abruptly and expand 10 to 20 times of its original volume.
Laboratory-scale foamed bitumen plant is used to prepare foamed bitumen and mix design test specimens for preliminary testing. It permits the final pavement design to be determined in advance. Also the optimum foamed bitumen quality can be determined.

 {/sliders}

{tab title="chemistry & physics of materials lab" alias="chemistry & physics of materials lab"}

{slider title="Potential Alkali Reactivity of Aggregates (Mortar-Bar Method) -Accelerated Test Method Based on ASTM C1260" alias="Potential Alkali Reactivity of Aggregates (Mortar-Bar Method) -Accelerated Test Method
 Based on ASTM C1260"}

Potential Alkali Reactivity of Aggregates (Mortar-Bar Method) -Accelerated Test Method
 Based on ASTM C1260
Scope
The potential for deleterious alkali-silica reaction of aggregate is determined by  measurement of  length change of mortar bars .
 
Significance and Use
This test method provides a means of detecting the potential of an aggregate intended for use in concrete for undergoing alkali-silica reaction resulting in potentially deleterious internal expansion. It is especially useful for aggregates that react slowly or produce expansion late in the reaction.
This test method permits detection, within 16 days after casting or any other age requested for  supplemental information.

 {slider title="Determination of Length Change of Concrete Due to Alkali-Silica Reaction Based on ASTM C1293" alias="Determination of Length Change of Concrete Due to Alkali-Silica Reaction  Based on ASTM C1293"}

Determination of Length Change of Concrete Due to Alkali-Silica Reaction
 Based on ASTM C1293

Scope
The susceptibility of an aggregate for participation in expansive alkali-silica reaction is determined by measurement of length change of concrete prisms.

Significance and Use
Alkali-silica reaction is a chemical interaction between some siliceous constituents of concrete aggregates and hydroxyl ions  of cement.
This test method is intended to evaluate the potential of an aggregate or combination of an aggregate with pozzolan or slag to expand deleteriously due to any form of alkali-silica reactivity.
Results of tests conducted on an aggregate as described herein should form a part of the basis for a decision to whether precautions should be taken against excessive expansion due to alkali-silica reaction.

{slider title="Potential Alkali Reactivity of Carbonate Rocks as Concrete Aggregates (Rock-Cylinder Method) Based on ASTM C586" alias="Potential Alkali Reactivity of Carbonate Rocks as Concrete Aggregates (Rock-Cylinder Method) Based on ASTM C586"}

Potential Alkali Reactivity of Carbonate Rocks as Concrete Aggregates (Rock-Cylinder Method)
 Based on ASTM C586

Scope
This test method covers the determination of the expansion of a specimen of carbonate rock, while immersed in a sodium hydroxide solution at room temperature.
The length changes occurring in such immersion indicate the general level of reactivity of the rock and whether tests should be made to determine the effect of aggregate prepared from the rock upon the volume change in concrete.

Significance and Use
This test method is intended to give a relatively rapid indication of the potential expansive reactivity of certain carbonate rocks that may be used as concrete aggregates.
Alkalies participating in the expansive reactions with aggregate constituents in concrete usually are derived from the hydraulic cement; under certain circumstances they may be
derived from other constituents of concrete or from external sources. Alkali carbonate reaction involving dolomite in certain calcitic dolomites, dolomitic limestones, and dolostones.
Research results have indicated that the expansive behavior of aggregate in concrete is qualitatively predicted by results of the rock cylinder test .

{slider title="Potential Alkali Reactivity of Cement-Aggregate Combinations (Mortar-Bar Method) Based on ASTM C227" alias="Potential Alkali Reactivity of Cement-Aggregate Combinations (Mortar-Bar Method) Based on ASTM C227"}

Potential Alkali Reactivity of Cement-Aggregate Combinations (Mortar-Bar Method)
 Based on ASTM C227

Scope
This test method covers the determination of the susceptibility of cement-aggregate combinations to expansive reactions involving hydroxyl ions associated with the alkalies (sodium and potassium) by measurement of the increase (ordecrease) in length of mortar bars containing the combination during storage under prescribed conditions of test.

Significance and Use
The results of test performed using this method furnish information on the likelihood that a cement-aggregate combination is potentially capable of harmful alkali-silica reactivity with consequent deleterious expansion of concrete.

 {slider title="Potential Alkali-Silica Reactivity of Aggregates (Chemical Method) Based on ASTM C289" alias="Potential Alkali-Silica Reactivity of Aggregates (Chemical Method) Based on ASTM C289"}

Potential Alkali-Silica Reactivity of Aggregates (Chemical Method)
Based on ASTM C289

Scope
This test method covers chemical determination of the potential reactivity of an aggregate with alkalies in Portland cement concrete as indicated by the amount of reaction during 24h at 80°C between 1N sodium hydroxide solution and aggregate that has been crushed and sieved to pass 300µm sieve and the retained on a 150µm sieve.
 On the basis of data, the solid curve has been established. A potentially deleterious degree of alkali reactivity is indicated if Rc, Sc points lie on the deleterious side of the curve .

Rc = the reduction in alkalinity of 1 N sodium hydroxide solution
Sc = concentration of SiO2 dissolved  in 1 N sodium hydroxide solution

Significance and Use

When this test method is used to evaluate the potential reactivity of siliceous components in the aggregate with alkalies in hydraulic-cement concrete, it must be used in combination with other methods. Reactions between a sodium hydroxide solution and siliceous components in the aggregate have been shown to correlate with the performance of some aggregates in concrete structures. The results from this test method can be obtained quickly, and, while not completely reliable in all cases, they can provide useful data.

{slider title="Heat of Hydration of Hydraulic Cement Based on ASTM C186" alias="Heat of Hydration of Hydraulic Cement Based on ASTM C186"}

Heat of Hydration of Hydraulic Cement
Based on ASTM C186

Scope
This test method covers the determination of the heat of hydration of a hydraulic cement by measuring the heat of solution of the dry cement and the heat of solution of a separate portion of the cement that has been partially hydrated for 7 and 28 days . The difference between these values being the heat of hydration for the respective hydration period report in kJ/kg,or cal/g.

Significance and Use
The purpose of this test is to determine if the hydraulic cement under test meets the heat of hydration requirement of the applicable hydraulic cement specification.
Determination of the heat of hydration of hydraulic cements provides information that is helpful for calculating temperature rise in mass concrete.

{slider title="Road marking materials —Glass beads Based on BS EN 1423" alias="Road marking materials —Glass beads Based on BS EN 1423"}

Road marking materials —Glass beads
Based on BS EN 1423
Scope
This test specifies the requirements applicable to glass beads, anti-skid aggregates, and the mixture of the two, which are applied as drop-on materials on road markings products (i.e. paints, cold plastics and thermoplastics).
The compliance of product with the requirements of this standard is defined by following characteristics:
1-Granulometry
2-Durability aspects (Resistance to chemicals: water, hydrochloric acid, calcium chloride)
3-Quality (Maximum weighted percentage of defective glass beads)
4-Surface treatments of glass beads (Moisture proof coating, Floatation coating)

Significance and Use

Transparent spherical glass particle, used to provide night visibility for the road markings by retroreflecting the incident headlight beams of a vehicle towards the driver.These materials are premixed during manufacture into paints, thermoplastics materials, cold hardening plastics and any other marking  product applied in the liquid state to the  road surface. Premix glass beads can also be added to liquid marking materials just before their application to the road surface.

{slider title="Silica Fume Used in Cementitious Mixtures Based on ASTM C1240" alias="Silica Fume Used in Cementitious Mixtures Based on ASTM C1240"}

Silica Fume Used in Cementitious Mixtures
Based on ASTM C1240

Scope
This specification covers silica fume for use in concrete and other systems containing hydraulic cement.
Silica fume, is very fine pozzolanic material, composed mostly of amorphous silica produced by electric arc furnaces as a by-product of the production of elemental silicon or ferro-silicon alloys (also known as condensed silica fume and microsilica).
Silica fume shall conform to the physical requirements prescribed as :
1- Density
2- Oversize: Percent retained on 45-μm (No. 325)
3- Accelerated pozzolanic strength activity index With portland cement at 7 days

Silica fume shall conform to the requirements for chemical composition prescribed as:
1- SiO2,
2- Moisture content
3- Loss on ignition
4- Total alkalies

Significance and Use
Silica fume consists primarily of amorphous (non-crystalline)silicon dioxide.The individual particles are extremely small, approximately 1/100th the size of an average cement particle. Because of its fine particles, large surface area, and the high SiO2 content, silica fume is a very reactive pozzolan when used in concrete.

{slider title="Determination of Carbon, Sulfur in Steel Alloys by Various Combustion and Fusion Techniques Based on ASTM E1019" alias="Determination of Carbon, Sulfur in Steel Alloys by Various Combustion and Fusion Techniques Based on ASTM E1019"}

Determination of Carbon, Sulfur in Steel Alloys by Various Combustion and Fusion Techniques
Based on ASTM E1019

Scope
These test methods cover the determination carbon , sulfur in steel alloys having chemical compositions within the range of ppm to percent.

Significance and Use

Carbon, Sulfur analyser is designed for the rapid simultaneous determination of carbon and sulfur in steel, cast iron and other alloys.
The measuring procedure is based on sample combustion and measurement of the combustion gases on a method of infrared absorption.
 During combustion, the sulfur and carbon components present in the sample are oxidized to form CO2 and SO2.
 Combustion is obtained by supplying Oxygen, which at the same time acts as carrier gas. Dust free gas mixture is supplied to the infrared cells.
 The signals emitted from the infrared cells are selective and correspond to the CO2 and SO2 concentrations in the gas mixture. They are electronically linearized and integrated, divided by the sample weigh and digitally displayed as %C and %S.

{slider title="Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic Cement- Chloride Based on ASTM C114 Acid-Soluble Chloride in Mortar and Concrete Based on ASTMC1152" alias="Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic Cement- Chloride Based on ASTM C114 Acid-Soluble Chloride in Mortar and Concrete Based on ASTMC1152"}

Chemical Analysis of Hydraulic Cement- Chloride Based on ASTM C114
Acid-Soluble Chloride in Mortar and Concrete Based on ASTMC1152

Scope

 Acid soluble chloride content of cement and concrete is determined by the potentiometric titration of chloride with silver nitrate . The procedure is also applicable to clinker and portland cement raw mix.

Significance and Use

The amount of acid-soluble chloride in most hydraulic cement systems is equal to the total amount of chloride in the system. However, some organic substances that may be introduced into mortar or concrete contain chloride that is initially acid-insoluble that can eventually ionize and thus become acid-soluble or water-soluble after a period of exposure in the very alkaline cement system.
Slags and slag cements contain sulfide in concentrations that can interfere with the determination of chloride content.

 {slider title="Fly Ash or Natural Pozzolans for Use in Portland-Cement Concrete Based on ASTM C311" alias="Fly Ash or Natural Pozzolans for Use in Portland-Cement Concrete Based on ASTM C311"}

Fly Ash or Natural Pozzolans for Use in Portland-Cement Concrete
Based on ASTM C311
Scope
These test methods cover procedures for sampling and testing fly ash and raw or calcined pozzolans for use in portland-cement concrete.Determination of chemical composition and physical properties are as follow:
1-CHEMICAL ANALYSIS
Moisture content
Loss on ignition,
Silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide, iron oxide, calcium oxide, magnesium oxide, sulfur trioxide, sodium oxide and potassium oxide
Available alkali
2-PHYSICAL TESTS
Density
Fineness
Soundness
Strength activity index with portland cement
Water requirement

Significance and Use
These test methods are used to develop data for comparison with the requirements of Specification C618. The chemical component determinations and the limits placed on each do not predict the performance of a fly ash or natural pozzolan with hydraulic cement in concrete, but collectively help describe composition and uniformity of the material. The test for strength activity index is used to determine whether fly ash or natural pozzolan results in an acceptable level of strength development when used with hydraulic cement in concrete. Since the test is performed with mortar, the results may not provide a direct correlation of how the fly ash or natural pozzolan will contribute to strength in concrete.

 {/sliders}

{tab title="soil & rock mechanics lab" alias="soil & rock mechanics lab"}

 {slider title="Petrographic Examination of Rocks and Aggregates" alias="Petrographic Examination of Rocks and Aggregates"}

Petrographic Examination of Rocks and Aggregates
Accordance to ASTM C294 and C295
Scope
Petrographic examinations are made for the following purposes:
- To determine physical and chemical characteristics of the material that may be observed by petrographic methods and that have a bearing on the performance of the material in its intended use.
- To describe and classify the constituents of the sample,
- To determine the relative amounts of the constituents of the sample that are essential for proper evaluation of the sample when the constituents differ significantly in properties that  have a bearing on the performance of the materials in its intended use, and
- To compare samples of aggregate from new sources with samples of aggregate from one or more sources, for which test data or performance records are available.
- Petrographic examination of aggregate considered for use in hydraulic cement concrete.
- Petrographic examinations provide identification of types and varieties of rocks present in potential aggregates.
- Petrographic examinations identify potentially alkali – silica reactive and alkali- carbonate reactive constituents capable of alkali reaction in concrete.
The optical properties assessment of minerals in thin sections is the most popular microscopic method for identification of the rock-forming constituents. A petrographic examination of aggregates for use in concrete, performed by expert petrographers, is one of the tasks of rock mechanics and petrography division of TSML.
Apparatus and Supplies
1- Petrographic microscope equipped with camera and accessories.
2- Stereoscopic microscope equipped with camera and accessories.
3- Rock-cutting saw and horizontal grinding wheel.
4- Polishing wheel and abrasives.
5- The other needed equipments and tools.
The specific procedures employed in the petrographic examination of any sample will depend to a large extent on the purpose of the examination and the nature of the sample. In most cases the examination will require the use of optical microscopy. Petrographic examinations with additional procedures, such as X-ray diffraction and fluorescence (XRD and XRF) analyses and chemical methods on aggregates (potentially alkali-silica reactive and alkali-carbonate reactive constituents) can mostly recognize long time behavior of concrete.

{slider title="Determination of Pulse Velocities and Dynamic Elastic Constants of Rock (Ultrasonic Test)" alias="Determination of Pulse Velocities and Dynamic Elastic Constants of Rock (Ultrasonic Test)"}

Determination of Pulse Velocities and Dynamic Elastic Constants of Rock (Ultrasonic Test)
Accordance to ASTM D2845
Scope
Rapid determination of elastic constants by pulse velocity method, due to its nondestructive nature, is commonly used in rock engineering. In this method elastic constants of rock can be calculated by laboratory measurement of the pulse velocities of compression and shear waves in rock specimens.
Device Capability
- Generate P & S pulse.
- Measures the pulse velocities of P & S waves in rock.
- Determination of elastic and shear moduli of rock.
- Determination of Poisson’s ratio of rock.

{slider title="Determination of Triaxial Compressive Strength of Rock" alias="Determination of Triaxial Compressive Strength of Rock"}

Determination of Triaxial Compressive Strength of Rock
Accordance to ASTM D7012- Method A
Scope
The triaxial compression test is commonly used to simulate the stress conditions under which most underground rock masses exist. The test provides data useful in determining the strength and elastic properties of rock, shear strength at various lateral pressures, angle of internal friction, cohesive intercept, and young’s modulus.
The rocks are under triaxial stress state under natural conditions, and simulating their strength under those conditions is very important for calculating bearing capacity, the design of dams and underground excavations. To simulate these conditions in the laboratory, a triaxial rock testing is used. By performing this test, the failure (Mohr) envelope is plotted and the strength parameters (c and φ) of the rocks are determined.

{slider title="Determination of Direct Shear Strength of Rock Specimens" alias="Determination of Direct Shear Strength of Rock Specimens"}

Determination of Direct Shear Strength of Rock Specimens
Accordance to ASTM D5607
Scope
Determination of shear strength of rock specimens is an important aspect in the design of structures such as rock slopes, dam foundations, tunnels, shafts, waste repositories, caverns for storage, and other purposes. Pervasive discontinuities (joints, bedding planes, shear zones, fault zones, schistosity) in a rock mass, and genesis, crystallography, texture, fabric and other factors can cause the rock mass to behave as an anisotropic and heterogeneous discontinuum. Therefore, the precise prediction of rock mass behavior is difficult.
This test method establishes requirements and laboratory procedures for performing direct shear strength test on rock specimens. It includes procedures for both intact rock strength and sliding friction tests, which can be performed on specimens that are homogenous or have planes weakness, including natural or artificial discontinuities. During the test, shear strength is determined at various applied stresses normal to the sheared plane and at various shear displacements.
The testing machine available in Rock Mechanics division of TSML is a servo control machine. The strength parameters (c and φ) of natural and artificial joints can be determined and the results can be used to determine the bearing capacity and the stability analysis of the rock slopes.

{slider title="Determination of Compressive Strength and Elastic Moduli and Poisson’s Ratio of Intact Rock Core Specimens" alias="Determination of Compressive Strength and Elastic Moduli and Poisson’s Ratio of Intact Rock Core Specimens"}

Determination of Compressive Strength and Elastic Moduli and Poisson’s Ratio of Intact Rock Core Specimens
Accordance to ASTM D7012- Method D
Scope
This test method covers the determination of the strength, elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio of intact rock core specimens in uniaxial compression. The stress vs. axial displacement and the stress vs. lateral displacement curves are determined and Young’s modulus, E, And Poisson’s Ratio, υ are calculated from the results. Radial deformation is combined with the axial deformation to obtain the Poisson’s ratio.

{slider title="Determining the resilient modulus of soil and aggregate materials" alias="Determining the resilient modulus of soil and aggregate materials"}

Determining the resilient modulus of soil and aggregate materials
Accordance to AASHTO T307

      In pavement design, resilient modulus of materials is used as one of the key parameters for determining the thickness of the pavement layers. Since there is a correlation between resilient modulus of the soil and California Bearing Ratio, it is common to estimate the resilient modulus using CBR values and corresponding diagrams. However, the resilient modulus estimation from CBR results is not accurate and it is possible to directly determine the resilient modulus of pavement layers with a triaxial cyclic testing device.

{slider title="Determination of the Modulus and Damping Properties of Soils" alias="Determination of the Modulus and Damping Properties of Soils"}

Determination of the Modulus and Damping Properties of Soils
Accordance to ASTM D3999

     Using this test, the dynamic parameters of soil in different strain levels are calculated using either controlled stress or controlled strain mode of loading. Dynamic parameters of soil including elastic modulus and damping ratio are calculated using the stress-strain hysteresis loop of cyclic loading. Soil dynamic parameters are used in numerical analysis software packages to analyze the seismic response of geotechnical structures as well as to investigate the earthquake-induced site effects.

{slider title="Cyclic Triaxial Strength of Soil" alias="Cyclic Triaxial Strength of Soil"}

Cyclic Triaxial Strength of Soil
Accordance to ASTM D5311

In this test the liquefaction resistance of soils is evaluated based on the number of cycles required to achieve a pore water pressure (PWP) of 100% or a double amplitude strain of 5%. The liquefaction resistance is determined using the cyclic stress ratio diagram versus the number of cycles for liquefaction. Cyclic triaxial test is one of the most common tests for liquefaction evaluation due to its repeatability, high accuracy, and direct calculation of soil liquefaction resistance.

{slider title="Triaxial tests on soils" alias="Triaxial tests on soils"}

Triaxial tests on soils
Accordance to ASTM D7181, ASTM D4767, ASTM D2850
      A triaxial Compression test is a common method to determine the shear strength parameters and stress-strain relations for soils. The shear strength of a soil in triaxial Compression depends on the stresses applied, Time of  consolidation, strain rate and the shear history experienced by the soil. There are several types of the triaxial test:
Consolidated Drained (CD), Consolidated Undrained (CU) and Unconsolidated Undrained (UU). The results of  these tests are used to determine bearing capacity of foundation, slope stability analysis, as well as to analyze geotechnical structures. Various sizes of soil specimens (with diameter of 38,60,70,100 and 150 mm) can be tested in the laboratory.

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