Geotechnical Laboratory
We provide our clients with fast, detailed, and confidential petrographic examinations and industry specific testing from our NATA accredited modern geotechnical laboratory.
The Brendale facility is fitted out with new equipment and a temperature-controlled laboratory which covers aggregate, soils dimensional stone specific testing and petrographic analysis.
The laboratory is managed by a professional team with over 40 years of combined experience in laboratory services, whilst our petrographic team comprises over 20 years of hands-on quarry resource evaluation and petrographic knowledge.
Our scope of work includes a range of testing and sampling to AS, QTMR, ASTM, AS/NZS, EN and Inhouse methods.
Aggregate Tests Services:
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Degree of precoat
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Organic impurities other than sugar
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Weak particles (including clay lumps, soft and friable particles) in coarse aggregates
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Clay and fine silt
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Wet/dry strength variation
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ACV
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Particle shape by proportional calliper
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Average least dimension
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Materials finer than 75 microns in aggregates (by washing)
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Flakiness index
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Bulk density of aggregate (unit mass)
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Particle size distribution
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Particle density and water absorption – fine/coarse aggregates
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Aggregate soundness – evaluation by exposure to sodium sulphate solution
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Crushed particles in coarse aggregate derived from gravel
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Degradation factor – source rock and coarse aggregate
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PAFV Polished aggregate friction value – vertical wheel
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Point Load
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Coarse Aggregate Quality by Visual Assessment
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Acid Solubility
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Caking
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Foreign Materials
Soil Tests Service:
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California bearing ratio (CBR)
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Maximum density ratio compactions (MDR)
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Particle size distribution
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Fines Ratio
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Atterberg limits
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Moisture content
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Emerson Class
Dimensional Stone Services:
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Water Absorption and Bulk Specific Gravity
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Modules of Rupture Compressive Strength
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Flexual Strength of Dimensional Stone
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Abrasion Resistance
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Strength of Individual Stone Anchorages in Dimensional Stone
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Potential to Effloresce / Rust from Free Iron
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Resistance to Salt Attack
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Impact Resistance / Rupture Energy
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Stain Resistance
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Change of Gloss
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Thermal Expansion
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Slip Resistance
Petrology Services:
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Thin section and polished thin section preparation of geological materials including concrete and quarry products.
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Petrographic investigation of natural rock and quarry materials including aggregates and manufactured sand.
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Petrographic consultancy services and expert technical advice on the compliance, performance and durability of construction materials, and assessment services, technical troubleshooting available upon request.
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Petrographic reports for Department of Transport and Main Roads quarry certification and recertification (QTMR Test method Q188).
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Petrology reports prepared to ASTM C1276
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Secondary Mineral content analysis conducted according to Australian Standard 1141.26.
Additional analysis using advanced microscopic techniques, including:
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X-ray diffraction (XRD)
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Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
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Probe and X-ray Mapping with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy
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X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Download our Scope of Tests