PS 14X

A fiber-optic borescope is inserted in small holes drilled into mortar joints to evaluate internal wall conditions. Borescope investigations provide detailed information about internal wall features discovered through nondestructive evaluation. These surveys can also evaluate corrosion of embedded metals and continuity of brick header courses. Borescope analysis can reduce or eliminate the need for destructive probe openings.

Compatible injection fill (CIF) is customized to the material properties of the host structure, based on nondestructive evaluation and materials characteristics testing. Technicians pump a fluid, cement-based grout mixture into cracks, voids, or cavities within masonry. Low injection pressures prevent damage, while strengthening already fragile materials.

We use an in-house laboratory for testing historic and modern masonry material properties. Work performed includes characterization of brick, block, and stone properties; mortar analysis; anchor strength; and grout development, following standard test methods developed by ASTM, ACI, the State of California, and others.

Nondestructive tools such as moisture meters, surface-penetrating radar, and infrared thermography can identify areas of high moisture content and track moisture penetration back to its source. Spray tests are often used to identify moisture leakage pathways and the rate of moisture infiltration. ANA can perform tests in accordance with ASTM C1601, ASTM C1715, ASTM E514, ASTM E1105 and AAMA 501.2.

An ultrasonic pulser/receiver unit initiates a timing circuit as it sends an electrical signal to the source transducer, which uses an internal piezoelectric crystal to generate a low-energy, high-frequency stress wave. Transducers are attached to the masonry surface with rubber sheets or gels for maximum energy transmission. The wave travels through the section, where the receiving transducer converts wave energy back to electrical energy. Pulse transmission time is displayed in microseconds on a readout display.