Materials laboratory

Our laboratories in Lyon (France) are configured and equipped to deliver effective answers to issues around Materials, Special Paints and Coatings.

Our technicians and engineers provide their expertise to support the diagnosis, expert appraisal and recognition of structures, to characterise and study the behaviour of materials as part of providing our clients with assistance and technical advice that aligns as closely as possible with the problems they experience.

Types of analysis and testing

Chemical analyses and the physical and mechanical characterisation of construction materials, paints and coatings
Petrographic and microstructural characterisation: observation at different magnifications (using binocular loupes and optical, polarising and scanning electron microscopes)
Research and study of concrete and masonry pathologies
Qualitative and quantitative mineralogical analysis
Identification and concentration of pollutants
Qualification, performance and ageing tests
Expert appraisal and diagnostics
Identification of fault causes, nature and extent
Identification of durability parameters
Interpretation of results, conclusions, advice and expert recommendation

Business lines

Construction materials:

Concrete, cement and grout
Masonry: Cut stone, brick, rock, mortar
Metals: passive steels, reinforcements and galvanised steels
Prestressing reinforcements: high-temperature steel wires, bars and stranded wires
Soils and water
Wood

Polymer coatings and organic products:

Paints, sealants, coatings, weatherproofing sealants, resins, glues and adhesives

Our resources

Optical emission spectroscopy (OES) with high-frequency induced plasma
Metrohm Eco IC Ion Chromatograph
pH-meter and ionometer with special electrodes
LEICA MZ7-5 and DM1750 optical microscopes
Merlin (Zeiss) scanning electron microscope
FTIR spectroscope, Pyrolysis GCMS
Tecnotest pressurised water permeameter and Cembureau permeability meter
Cells and regulated power supply for chloride ion diffusion
Laser granulometer
Elcometer, Durometer and Extensometer
Salt mist
Thermostatically controlled baths
Planetary ball mill
Jaw crusher
Ovens, Muffle kilns and Climate chambers

Expertise extended to the energy sector

Expertise

Physicochemical and particle size analysis of water samples containing debris is part of the characterization and performance testing of filters used in cooling water recirculation systems.

Analysis

Corrosion studies - Sampling and measurement operations to study the mapping of corrosion products in the secondary circuits of nuclear power plants - Analytical chemistry measurement services and intensified monitoring of secondary chemistry as part of Film Forming Amine injection tests (a corrosion protection process)