Analysis and Testing of Construction and Coating Materials
In the BAW's chemistry and corrosion laboratory, the BAW staff analyse and evaluate the composition, suitability and/or quality of construction and coating materials as well as other materials by applying special physical and chemical testing methods.
- FTIR Spectroscopy
Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR spectroscopy) is an analytical method for the definition and study of anorganic/organic molecule groups. By producing infra-red spectrums with typical absorption bands, the molecular character and the composition of materials (construction materials elastomeres, coatings) can be deduced.
more ...- Thermal Analysis with an Assembly for Concurrent TGA and DTA
The assembly for concurrent thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA) is used to obtain information on decomposition temperatures, physical processes (melting, phase transition) and on the presence of specific components of the concrete (e.g. portlandite, ettringite and calcite).
more ...- Headspace Gas Chromatography (HS-GC)
This chromatographic analysis method is used to screen for specific, volatile substances in a polymeric matrix. Thus it is possible, even after the polymer has hardened, to determine whether non-complying or incompatible solvents were used when applying coatings to steel and hydraulic steel structures.
more ...- Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS)
This spectroscopic analysis method is used to quantitatively determine various elements contained in different materials. It is possible, for example, to establish the composition of steel, alloys and corrosion products.
more ...- Microscopy
Using the incident light microscope it is possible to analyse the morphology and structure of material specimens, at a magnification of up to 500X. The structure of applied layers, the succession of the individual layers and any faults (blisters, inclusions, pinholes, etc.) thus can be determined, especially in coating samples.
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