Petrography
Petrographic Examination and Analysis of Hardened Masonry Mortar – ASTM C1324
Rather than simply evaluating mortar strength, ASTM C1324 combines petrographic examination and chemical analysis to characterize the mortar’s composition, materials, and condition.
Historic restoration and preservation of brick masonry often begins with understanding the existing mortar. Evaluating historic mortar can provide valuable information about its composition and characteristics, helping inform the selection and proportioning of compatible repointing and repair mortars.
When Is Mortar Petrography Needed?
Testing can be particularly valuable for historic preservation, restoration and repair projects, evaluations of existing structures, and investigations involving deteriorated or unknown mortars.
What Can Mortar Petrography Determine?
- Sand lithology, gradation, texture, and color
- Type of cementitious material and lime content
- Air content and presence of entrained air voids
- Porosity, quality, and durability
- Equivalent ASTM C270 mortar type
- Indications of previous repointing material
- Recommended proportions of repointing mortar
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Related Links
Technical Resources
- Article – The Value of Petrography in Concrete Repair
- Brochure – Petrography
- Handout – Mortar Evaluations
Experience
- Historic Mortar Matching
- Restorations