|
Since our inception in 1954, testing of “Dimensional Stone” has been an integral part of laboratory testing activities at TEI. Over the years we have established a great deal of expertise in evaluation of dimensional stone. Our experienced staff utilizing the latest laboratory equipment can set up tests specific to certain applications, or can perform standard ASTM* test procedures for different types of dimensional stone. What Types of Dimensional Stone are Tested?
- Marble
- Limestone
- Granite
- Quartz Based
- Slate
- Traventine
What Types of tests are Typically Performed? There are various tests typically performed on dimension stones. The following table lists the physical requirements and test methods for various types of dimension stones. TEI has the capability to perform all these tests.
|
Stone Type & ASTM* Specification
|
Class
|
Water Absorption, Max, %
ASTM C97
|
Density, Min, lbs/ft3
ASTM C97
|
Compressive Strength, Min, psi
ASTM C170
|
Modulus of Rupture, Min, psi
ASTM C99
|
Abrasion Resistance, Min,
ASTM C241
|
|
Limestone
ASTM C568
|
I
II
III
|
12
7.5
3
|
110
135
160
|
1800
4000
8000
|
400
500
1000
|
10
10
10
|
|
Sandstone
ASTM C616
|
I
II
III
|
8
3
1
|
125
150
160
|
4000
10000
20000
|
350
1000
2000
|
2
8
8
|
|
Marble ASTM C503
|
I
II
III
IV
|
0.2
0.2
0.2
0.2
|
162
175
168
144
|
7500
7500
7500
7500
|
1000
1000
1000
1000
|
10
10
10
10
|
|
Granite
ASTMC615
|
-
|
0.4
|
160
|
19000
|
1500
|
25
|
*American Society of Testing & Materials
Additional tests that may be required for specific projects are listed below.
- Flexural Strength (ASTM C880)
- Abrasion Resistance (ASTM C241/C1353)
- Coefficient of Friction (ASTM C1028)
- Strength of Individual Stone Anchorage in Dimension Stone (ASTM C1354)
- Shear/Bond Strength of Dimension Stone (ASTM C482)
- Bond Strength of Dimension Stone in Tension (ASTM C1583)
What Do You Need for Stone Testing? You may need your stone product tested for any number of the following reasons:
- If you an importer or manufacturer of dimension stone and need the product tested for promotional/sales or certification purposes.
- Installers of stone may need testing to determine service performance and/or compliance with job specifications.
- Stones may need to be tested as part of building defect investigation.
- In slip and fall cases where abrasion resistance and friction tests may be required by the legal profession.
|
 Stone veneer on high-rise building were tested for strength of anchorage prior to installation. 
Sample of stone from above building following testing of anchorage (ASTM C1354).
Shear Bond Test of Stone over Lath. Overall View (ASTM C482)  Modulus of Rupture Test Set-Up
|
