Microscopy: Microscopic analysis of construction material

Within the context of material analysis, LAOP provides microscopic studies in the field of building materials. Here, light optical, electron optical and microchemical analysing methods are deployed.

This is exemplified by a project together with the Malaysian cement producer CMS Cement Industries Sdn Bhd, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

With the help of the quantitative phase analysis of Portland-Cement-Clinker, processes in rotary kiln can be described better and can give additional advice for optimization of the production of an upmarket building material.

The quantitative phase analysis is performed at cement-clinker in the center, midradius and at the margin of the respective nodule. At that, the amount of pores of the sample is determined by high-contrasted BSE-images.

After a qualitative analysis of the individual mineral phases, high-resolution EDX-mappings of the single regions of investigation are prepared. The emerging element distribution maps will be evaluated by image analysis and the related surface amounts of the mineral phases will be determined. As a result, the distribution of mineral phases can be provided in surface percentage.

This example is taken for a large variety of analytical possibilities in the field of building material industry, like:

•        Analysis of non-hydrated and hydrated concrete
•        Material investigation with regard to asbestos fibers
•        Microscopic analyses of burnt ceramic products (roof tiles, flagstones…)
•        Analytics of fibrous insulating materials