Laboratory-grade analysis of structural materials
Concrete Coring & Testing
When non-destructive techniques identify areas of concern, targeted concrete coring provides definitive material data. SiteOps manages the full coring and testing workflow — from core extraction through to NATA-accredited laboratory analysis and technical interpretation of results.
Our testing programme covers compressive strength (AS 1012.9), carbonation depth (phenolphthalein indicator per RILEM CPC-18), chloride ion profiling (AS 1012.20), petrographic analysis (ASTM C856), and durability assessment. Results are interpreted by our structural scientists in the context of the broader structural investigation, not as isolated numbers.
We minimise the number of cores required by using NDT techniques (GPR, UPV, thermography) to identify the most critical locations for sampling. This NDT-guided coring approach reduces cost, minimises damage to the structure, and provides more representative data than grid-based coring alone.
Core diameters of 50mm, 75mm, or 100mm are selected based on the testing requirements and structural implications. GPR and Ferroscan are used at every proposed core location to confirm safe clearance from reinforcement before drilling.
Key Features
- •Diamond core drilling (50mm, 75mm, 100mm diameters)
- •Compressive strength testing to AS 1012.9
- •Carbonation depth assessment (phenolphthalein indicator)
- •Chloride ion profiling to AS 1012.20
- •Petrographic analysis (thin-section microscopy)
- •Density and water absorption measurement
- •NDT-guided core location selection
- •Structural grout repair of all core holes
Standards
Applications
- •Structural capacity verification
- •Durability assessment and service life modelling
- •Fire damage severity quantification
- •Corrosion risk assessment
- •Heritage material characterisation
- •Remediation design input
- •Litigation and insurance evidence
- •Change of use capacity verification
Stack & equipment
Technologies used
Case experience
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Common questions about Concrete Coring & Testing
How many cores are typically needed?+
The number of cores depends on structure size, variability identified by NDT, and the testing objectives. Typical investigations require 6–15 cores across the structure. SiteOps uses GPR and UPV screening to identify critical locations, so fewer cores provide more representative data than random grid-based sampling. AS 3600 requires minimum three cores per assessment zone for strength determination.
Does coring damage the structure?+
Coring creates a cylindrical hole (typically 75mm diameter) that is repaired with high-strength structural grout immediately after extraction. The structural impact is negligible when cores are correctly located away from reinforcement. GPR and Ferroscan scanning at every proposed location ensures no reinforcement is cut during extraction.
What is the turnaround time for laboratory results?+
Standard compressive strength and carbonation testing typically returns within 7–10 business days. Chloride profiling requires 10–14 business days. Petrographic analysis requires 14–21 business days. SiteOps offers expedited testing (3–5 business days for strength) for urgent assessments such as post-fire investigation or insurance claims.
Can you test heritage building materials?+
Yes. Heritage buildings often contain materials not covered by modern standards — lime mortar, sandstone, wrought iron, pre-standard concrete mixes. SiteOps coordinates with specialist laboratories experienced in heritage material analysis. Core sizes are minimised and locations carefully selected to preserve original fabric.
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