Analysis of Soils and Building Materials

The analysis of soils and building materials is a service provided on consultancy basis and applicable to a wide range of products and raw materials. The primary aims are to establish products are fit for purpose; why they might fail when in use or during manufacture; and to assist in the development of new materials and products. In the construction industry, materials must comply with certain guidelines and building regulations. As soil provides the foundations for most buildings, it must be tested for toxicity that might affect either the stability of the structure or the wellbeing of future occupants. The presence of heavy metals, alkalinity, conductivity and pH, phytotoxins, pesticides and herbicides and total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) might be measured, for instance. Materials tested may include concrete, stone, metals and alloys, paints, ceramics and so on. Physical tests might include durability, load and strength weatherability and slip resistance. Chemical tests will look at composition and microstructure. All building materials must adhere to British Standard specifications. Soils and building materials analysis is important primarily for the construction industry and those trades associated with construction work such as architects; building and civil engineering companies; and public sector highways and environmental health departments.