Petrography
Mortar Petrography & Analysis | ASTM C1324 Testing
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.
Examination and Analysis of Hardened Masonry Mortar
ASTM C1324 is the standard test method for the examination and analysis of hardened masonry mortar. Rather than simply evaluating mortar strength, the method combines petrographic examination and chemical analysis to characterize the mortar’s composition, materials, and condition.
Testing can be particularly valuable for historic preservation, restoration and repair projects, evaluations of existing structures, and investigations involving deteriorated or unknown mortars.
Our experienced team of professional geologists, petrographers, and engineers evaluates hardened masonry mortar using petrographic and analytical techniques to provide a detailed understanding of its composition and characteristics.
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
If you’d like to learn more, get in touch or review our mortar evaluations handout.
Experience
- Historic Mortar Matching
- Restorations
Related Services
