Concrete Experts International offers services on scanning electron microscopy on concrete and related materials such as aggregates for concrete production, cement, metals and fibers.

A scanning electron microscope equipped with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM- EDX) ) is an important supplement to the optical microscope when examining new, old and deteriorated concrete. 

In quality assurance of concrete scanning electron microscopy provides important information about:

• Degree of hydration of cement

• Formation and distribution of hydration products

• Adhesion to aggregates

• Homogeneity of cement paste

In relation with forensic investigations on deteriorated concrete scanning electron microscopy may add valuable data about the cause of deterioration. SEM-EDX analysis typical supplies information on:

• Primary and secondary mineral phases in paste, pores, cracks and micro cavities

• Morphology of phases

• Source and deposition area for the mineral phases

• Identity of tiny micron size mineral phases not visible in the optical microscope

• Chemical composition of mineral phases

• Chemical zoning or variation through crystals and through the entire material

Concrete Experts International are highly experienced in using SEM-EDX on concrete and other cement-based materials as well as on natural rock. We have years of experience in interpretation and understanding of the observed microstructure and in interpretation of data.