Laboratory tests for building materials

Phase identification and quantification (Rietveld analysis) of a crystalline powder material using X-ray diffraction (XRD). The analysis can also provide unit cell dimensions. The analysis is only suitable for materials with at least one crystalline phase. The quantification accuracy is roughly 0.1 %, depending on the sample matrix and the phase in question. The available temperature range for XRD measurements is 25-1100 °C and the crystallinity can be studied as a function of temperatures. The measurements can be done under a normal atmosphere, inert gas, or vacuum. Please contact our experts to discuss the available temperature and atmosphere combinations. Please mention which crystalline phases your material contains and which ones are you interested in quantifying when requesting testing. However, the method can be applied to unknown phases as well. Either a tabletop or a synchrotron XRD can be used to perform the measurements.

Fire classification of construction materials is generally performed by the European classification standard EN 13501-1. The price displayed on this page includes the preparation of the classification report. The tests can be purchased separately. The tests required for EN 13501-1 fire classification include the following: For non-flooring: Class F and E: EN ISO 11925-2, Class D, C, B: EN ISO 11925-2 and EN 13823, Class A2: EN 13823 and EN ISO 1182 or EN ISO 1716, Class A1: EN ISO 1182 and EN ISO 1716. For flooring : Class Ffl and Efl: EN ISO 11925-2, Class Dfl, Cfl, Bfl: EN ISO 11925-2 and EN ISO 9239-1, Class A2fl: EN ISO 9239-1 and EN ISO 1182 or EN ISO 1716, Class A1fl: EN ISO 1182 and EN ISO 1716. For linear pipes: Class FL and EL: EN ISO 11925-2, Class DL, CL, BL: EN ISO 11925-2 and EN 13823, Class A2L: EN 13823 and EN ISO 1182 or EN ISO 1716, Class A1L: EN ISO 1182 and EN ISO 1716. In addition to the main class, the materials are given additional classifications for smoke production (s1, s2, and s3) and burning particles (d0, d1, and d2).

This test is used to assess the reaction of building products (excluding flooring) to fire when exposed to a thermal attack by a single burning item (SBI). In the test, the spread of flames and smoke is measured. The main purpose of the test is to classify building products according to Euroclass A2, B, C, or D, as per the European classification standard EN 13501-1. Measurlabs can provide individual EN ISO 13823 testing as well as the full set of tests required for EN 13501-1 fire rating classification.

This test measures the ignitability of building materials when exposed to a small flame. The main purpose of the test is to classify building products according to Euroclass B, Bfl, BL, C, Cfl, CL, D, Dfl, DL, E, Efl, or EL as per the European classification standard EN 13501-1. In the test, flame spread (Fs) along the specimen is measured upon exposure to a small flame. Depending on the target classification, exposure typically lasts for 15 or 30 seconds, while flame spread is observed for 20 or 60 seconds. Measurlabs provides individual EN ISO 11925-2 testing as well as other certified tests for EN 13501-1 fire rating classification.

This method is used to determine the gross heat of combustion of solid building products at constant volume in a bomb calorimeter. Results are reported in J/kg. If the product is non-homogeneous, meaning that it consists of multiple materials, each material must be tested separately. The result can be used to classify construction products into classes A1, A1fl, A1L, A2, A2fl, and A2L according to the fire classification standard EN 13501-1.

This analysis provides quantitative information about the crystalline and amorphous phases within your sample using high-resolution synchrotron X-ray diffraction (XRD). A standard analysis includes: Quantification of crystalline phases as weight percentages, Quantification of the total amorphous content, High-resolution powder diffraction data and the resulting diffractogram, A comprehensive test report detailing the findings. For more advanced needs, we also offer total scattering/pair distribution function (PDF) analysis to reveal the local atomic structure in amorphous or nano-structured materials. Do not hesitate to ask for a quote.

Determination of the amount of volatile organic compounds (VOC) released by solid or liquid samples. Suitable sample matrices include, for example, black mass of recycled batteries, polymer samples, and liquid and solid chemicals. The measurement is performed by placing the investigated sample in a chamber, through which nitrogen is flushed. The nitrogen is led through an absorption cartridge, which traps the VOC compounds. Upon completion of the gas collection, the trapped VOCs are analyzed with thermal desorption-gas chromatography (TD-GC). The measurement can either be performed at ambient temperature, or the sampling chamber can be heated up to 120 °C.

Qualitative identification of asbestos in bulk materials by scanning electron microscopy–energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX). The analysis is performed in accordance with the ISO 22262-1 standard. The method is commonly used to determine whether toy materials, such as play sand, kinetic sand, or polymer- and mineral-based fillers contain asbestos. Construction products such as cement, asphalt, and thermal insulation materials are another common sample matrix. During the analysis, the sample is ashed, ground, and analyzed with SEM-EDX to identify fibrous asbestos structures. The analysis covers the following asbestos types: Actinolite, Amosite (brown asbestos) , Anthophyllite, Chrysotile (white asbestos) , Crocidolite (blue asbestos) , Tremolite. Express turnaround (4 business days) can be arranged upon request for an additional fee. Please ask us for more information.

ISO 5659-2 outlines the procedure for measuring the optical density of smoke produced by a material placed in a closed test cabinet and exposed to thermal radiation. The standard was originally developed for plastics, but it can be applied to a range of other products and materials. In the test, representative specimens of the material are mounted horizontally in a test chamber, and their upper surface is exposed to a specified level of thermal irradiance (usually 25 kW/m2 or 50 kW/m2), with or without a pilot flame. The resulting smoke is collected, and its optical density is measured using a photometric method. Some of the key parameters measured include the maximum specific optical density (Ds,max), the specific optical densities at specified times (Ds(1,5), Ds(4), Ds(10)), and the cumulative specific optical densities during the first 4 minutes of the test (VOF4). A toxicity measurement can also be included to measure toxic gas emissions. Its results are reported as the conventional index of toxicity (CITG). The ISO 5659-2 smoke production test is often required as part of the EN 45545-2 fire safety evaluation of railway materials.

This test is used to evaluate the non-combustible properties of construction materials. The test is included in the EN 13501-1 fire classification standard for classifications A1, A2, A1fl, A2fl, A1L, and A2L. When aiming for A1 classes, the gross heat of combustion test (EN ISO 1716) is also required. For A2 classes, either the single burning item test (EN 13823) or the reaction to fire test for flooring (EN ISO 9239-1) is required in addition to this test or EN ISO 1716. During non-combustibility testing, the specimen is placed in a tube furnace and possible burning events are monitored with thermocouples. If the test specimen burns, the flaming time is also measured. Class A1 materials are not allowed to experience sustained flaming. For class A2 materials, flaming must stop within 20 seconds.

ISO 5660-1 outlines a procedure for using a cone calorimeter to measure the heat release and smoke production rates of materials upon exposure to a predetermined heat flux. Before testing, representative specimens are conditioned at 23±2 ℃ and 50±5% RH until reaching constant mass. They are then wrapped in foil, placed in a sample holder within a retainer frame, and exposed to an irradiance of 50±1 kW/m2 (unless specified otherwise). The results will include the maximum average rate of heat emission (MARHE), which is required information for multiple material types when evaluating their fire safety in railway applications according to EN 45545-2. Other measured parameters include the following: Mass at the start and end of the experiment, Mass loss percentage, Average mass loss rate, Ignition and extinction times, Maximum rate of heat release (RHR), RHR at 180 and 300 seconds after starting the test, Total heat release (THR), Total smoke production per unit area (overall + before and after ignition). We can also offer other reaction-to-fire tests to meet EN 45545-2 requirements, including ISO 5658-2 and ISO 5659-2. Do not hesitate to contact our experts if you need a quote for the full set of tests.

GC-MS analysis of 16 PAH compounds, which are listed as high-priority pollutants by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The analyzed PAH compounds are: naphthalene [CAS: 91-20-3], acenaphthylene [CAS: 208-96-8], acenaphthene [CAS: 83-32-9], fluorene [CAS: 86-73-7], phenanthrene [CAS: 85-01-8], anthracene [CAS: 120-12-7], fluoranthene [CAS: 206-44-0], pyrene [CAS: 129-00-0], benz(a)anthracene [CAS: 56-55-3], chrysene [CAS: 218-01-9], benzo(b)fluoranthene [CAS: 205-99-2], benzo(k)fluoranthene [CAS: 207-08-9], benzo (a) pyrene [CAS: 50-32-8], dibenzo(ah)anthracene [CAS: 53-70-3], benzo (ghi) perylene [CAS: 191-24-2], indeno (123cd) pyrene [CAS: 193-39-5].

The burning rate of vertically mounted materials designed for vehicles and buses must be tested with the UN/ECE R118 Annex 8 test before approval for use. Measurlabs offers this and other accredited R118 fire tests. Upon meeting the requirements outlined in Annex 8, the requirements for horizontal flame spread (annex 6) are also met. In the test method, the exposed side of the vertically mounted test specimen is burned from underneath and the burning rate is measured in mm/min.

Test of 1 bottle at 20 °C with Malvern Spraytec to characterize particle sizes between 0.1 µm and 900 µm with a standard distance between the nozzle and the laser beam. The results are reported for 3 repeat shots. Particle size distribution histograms, percent finers (Dv10, Dv50, Dv90), and % of particles smaller than 5 µm, 10 µm, and 50 µm are reported. Providing two 100% charge spray bottles per analysis is recommended for aerosols. Contact us for a quote and more information on analyses under nonstandard conditions.

Fire testing according to EN ISO 9239-1 is used to evaluate the ability of flooring to withstand flames and radiant heat. Flame spread, smoke generation, and the lowest radiant heat to sustain burning are measured. The method is primarily used to classify floor coverings according to the European EN 13501-1 fire classification system. Depending on the results, floorings can be categorized as A2fl, Bfl, Cfl, or Dfl. A smoke production classification of s1 or s2 is also provided. Another use case is assessing the burning behavior of floor composites and interior horizontal surfaces used in rail vehicles according to the EN 45545-2 standard. The testing procedure is the following: 1) The test specimen is placed in a horizontal position below a gas-fired radiant panel inclined at 30°, where it is exposed to a defined heat flux. 2) A pilot flame is applied to the hotter end of the specimen. 3) Following ignition, any flame front that develops is noted, and a record is made of the progression of the flame front horizontally along the length of the specimen, measuring the time it takes for the fire to spread to defined distances. 4) Smoke production is recorded as light transmission in the exhaust stack. One specimen is tested in one direction (e.g. production direction) and another in the direction perpendicular to the first specimen. The test that yields the worst results is repeated twice in that direction.

The melting behavior of fusible materials used in certain motor vehicles must be determined according to Annex 7 of UN/ECE Regulation 118. In the test, it is monitored whether the specimen ignites, creates flaming droplets, and if these droplets ignite cotton wool placed under the specimen. For the material to pass the test, there must be no formation of flaming drops that ignite the cotton wool. Measurlabs can offer accredited test reports for the UN/ECE R118 Annex 7 test, as well as the Annex 6 and Annex 8 tests. Non-isotropic materials must be tested from both sides, which means that double the number of samples is required.

Qualitative or comparative analysis of crystalline powders using X-ray diffraction (XRD). The analysis is only suitable for materials with at least one crystalline phase.

The burning rate of horizontally mounted materials designed to be used in vehicles and buses must be tested with the UN/ECE R118 annex 6 test before they can be approved for use. Measurlabs offers this and the other R118 tests with accreditation. In the test method, the exposed side of the test specimen is burned from underneath and the burning rate is measured and expressed in mm/min.

The ISO 4589-2 oxygen index test is used to evaluate the fire behavior of certain railway materials according to the EN 45545-2 standard. It is required to meet requirements R22, R23, and R24, which apply to products such as insulators, seals, pipes, and hoses. The oxygen index (OI) is the minimum volume-based percentage of oxygen in an oxygen-nitrogen mixture required to support the combustion of the sample under specified conditions. For a material to meet EN 45545-2 requirements, the OI must be at least 28% (hazard classes HL1 and HL2) or at least 32% (HL3). Testing is performed on 20 replicate samples, with the required specimen size depending on the material: 80−150 mm x 10 mm x 4 mm for mould-made materials, such as plastics, 80−150 mm x 10 mm x 10 mm for porous materials, such as foams, 140 mm x 52 mm x d, where d < 10.5 mm, for flexible films, sheets, and fabrics.

ISO 5658-2 outlines a method for measuring the lateral flame spread along building and transport products placed in a vertical position. In the test, several representative sample specimens are exposed to a radiant heat flux, and the reaction to this is observed. Measured parameters include the time of ignition, the time of extinction, and the time it takes for the flame front to travel specified distances along the specimen. The results will also include the critical flux at extinguishment (CFE), measured in kW/m2. The CFE is required information when evaluating the reaction-to-fire characteristics of certain components used on trains according to EN 45545-2.

ICP-MS elemental analysis for geological samples (rocks, ore, mining samples) with aqua regia digestion. The analysis includes the following elements: Ag, Al, As, Au, B, Ba, Be, Bi, Ca, Cd, Ce, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Fe, Ga, Ge, Hf, Hg, In, K, La, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Nb, Ni, P, Pb, Rb, Re, S, Sb, Sc, Se, Sn, Sr, Ta, Te, Th, Ti, Tl, U, V, W, Y, Zn, and Zr. Gold determinations by this method are semi-quantitative due to the small sample weight used. The price does not include pretreatment, such as crushing or sieving. Shipping is included up to 5 kg total weight; extra cost for larger shipments. Please note that we may be unable to offer these tests for small one-off projects involving just a few samples.

European standard EN 717-1 outlines a chamber method for measuring formaldehyde emissions from wood-based panels. During testing, test pieces are placed in a chamber with controlled temperature, relative humidity, loading factor, and air exchange rate. Formaldehyde concentration in the air is then measured at specified intervals until a steady state concentration has been reached. The results are expressed in mg/m3. The EN 717-1 method is equivalent to that described in Appendix 14 to Commission Regulation (EU) 2023/1464, which states that certain formaldehyde-releasing articles must not be placed on the market after 6 August 2026. To comply with the regulation, materials must not release formaldehyde in excess of the following values: 0.062 mg/m3 for furniture and wood-based articles, 0.080 mg/m3 for articles other than furniture and wood-based articles.

ICP-MS elemental analysis for geological samples (rocks, ore, mining samples) with Four Acid digestion. The analysis includes the following elements: Ag, Al, As, Ba, Be, Bi, Ca, Cd, Ce, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Fe, Ga, Ge, Hf, In, K, La, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Nb, Ni, P, Pb, Rb, Re, S, Sb, Sc, Se, Sn, Sr, Ta, Te, Th, Ti, Tl, U, V, W, Y, Zn, and Zr The following rare earth elements (REE) are also included: Dy, Er, Eu, Gd, Ho, Lu, Nd, Pr, Sm, Tb, Tm, and Yb The price does not include pretreatment, such as crushing or sieving. Additional logistics costs are billed if the sample weighs more than 5 kg. Please note that we may be unable to offer these tests for small one-off projects involving just a few samples.

These analyses (IEC 62631-3-1 and IEC 62631-3-2) measure the resistive properties of solid plastics under direct current (DC) conditions. Flat plates of the sample are placed between two electrodes, and a known DC voltage is applied. For volume resistivity (IEC 62631-3-1), the current flowing through the bulk material is measured. For surface resistivity (IEC 62631-3-2), the current along the surface is measured. Resistivity values are calculated from the applied voltage and measured current. The tests are typically conducted in triplicate at 23 °C and 50% RH after conditioning the samples for 4 days at 23 °C and 50% RH. Samples should have a thickness close to their intended application. Surface and volume resistivity analyses conducted at cryogenic and elevated temperatures (up to 250°C) are also available, as well as other electrical tests for plastic materials, including those conducted according to ASTM standards. Please contact our experts for a quote tailored to your project.

Accelerated weathering test exposing non-metallic materials to fluorescent UV radiation and moisture in a QUV chamber according to ASTM G154. The method reproduces the degradation effects of outdoor sunlight and moisture exposure under controlled laboratory conditions. Two lamp types are available, selected based on the intended application: UVA-340 lamps closely replicate the short-wave UV portion of natural sunlight and are used for most outdoor material testing, while UVB-313 lamps provide a more aggressive spectrum for accelerated screening. Specimens are subjected to repetitive cycles of UV exposure and moisture, delivered as condensation or water spray, with temperature controlled throughout. Color change is evaluated by measuring CIE Lab* coordinates before and after exposure and calculating the total color difference ΔE*ab. Gloss retention and visual surface assessment are available upon request. ASTM G154 does not itself define acceptance criteria or specify exposure conditions for particular applications; results are best used for comparative ranking or compliance with specified exposure requirements. Please specify the material type and desired test cycle when requesting a quote.

European standard EN 12086 specifies a testing procedure to determine the water vapor transmission rate (WVTR), permeance, and permeability of construction products, particularly those used in thermal insulation applications. Testing according to EN 12086 is typically required to show that several categories of building products meet the applicable harmonized technical specifications, making them eligible for the CE marking. Examples of products that may require testing include: Screed materials (EN 13813), Factory-made thermal insulation products, including mineral wool (EN 13162), expanded polystyrene (EN 13163), extruded polystyrene foam (EN 13164), rigid polyurethane foam (EN 13165), phenolic foam (EN 13166), cellular glass (EN 13167), wood wool (EN 13168), and wood fiber (EN 13171). . The higher displayed price applies to the first sample, while the lower price applies to subsequent samples delivered in the same sample set. Do not hesitate to ask for a custom offer for large testing projects.

ICP-OES measurement package for waste and construction material samples. The assay includes pre-treatment with aqua regia decomposition and the measurement of the following elements using the ICP-OES technique: Element Detection limit (mg/kg) Ag 0.5 As 0.5 Ba 0.2 Be 0.01 Cd 0.4 Co 0.2 Cr 0.5 Cu 1 Fe 10 Hg 0.2 Li 1 Mn 0.5 Mo 0.4 Ni 1 P 5 Pb 1 Sb 0.5 Se 2 Sn 1 Sr 0.1 Tl 0.5 V 0.1 Zn 3 The concentrations of the measured elements are reported in mg/kg d.m. The analysis is also available with a fast delivery turnaround time. Ask for an offer from our experts using the form below.

Toxicity testing according to NF X 70-100-1 and -2 standards is performed to determine the Conventional Index of Toxicity for non-listed products (CITNLP) used on trains. Testing is needed to meet requirements R22 and R23, as specified in standard EN 45545-2 on the fire behavior of materials used in railway vehicles. The method described in NF X 70-100-2 corresponds to Method 2 under the EN 17084 standard. During the analysis, the sample is burned in a tube furnace at 600 °C, and toxic smoke emissions evolving from the sample are collected and analyzed. The concentrations of the following eight gases are measured and used to calculate the CITNLP parameter: Carbon dioxide (CO2), Carbon monoxide (CO), Hydrogen fluoride (HF), Hydrogen chloride (HCl), Hydrogen bromide (HBr), Hydrogen cyanide (HCN), Sulfur dioxide (SO2), Nitrous oxide (NOx), including both NO2 and NO, expressed as NO2.

Determination of thermal resistance and thermal conductivity of building materials according to EN 12667. The standard applies to products of high and medium thermal resistance, with a minimum measurable thermal resistance of 0.5 m²K/W. One of the following methods is used, depending on specimen characteristics: Guarded hot plate method: An absolute method in which heat flow through the specimen is determined directly, without prior calibration against a reference material., Heat flow meter method: A relative method in which the apparatus is calibrated against a material of known thermal conductivity.. In both methods, the specimen is placed between plates held at controlled temperatures, and the steady-state heat flow through the specimen is measured. Thermal resistance (R-value, m²K/W) and thermal conductivity (λ, W/mK) are calculated from the measured heat flux and temperature difference across the specimen thickness. Results are used to support product classification, compliance with energy performance requirements in building regulations, and material specification and comparison. Within the EU, thermal resistance and conductivity data are required for CE marking of thermal insulation products under the relevant harmonized product standards. Test specimen preparation follows the applicable product standard; please specify the material type and relevant standard when requesting an offer.

External fire exposure testing and classification of roof coverings in accordance with CEN/TS 1187 and EN 13501-5. We offer all four test methods described in the standards (with examples of countries where the tests are applied in parentheses): Test 1 (t1): exposure to burning brands (Belgium, Netherlands, Germany), Test 2 (t2): exposure to burning brands and wind (Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark), Test 3 (t3): exposure to burning brands, wind, and supplementary radiant heat (France), Test 4 (t4): two-stage test, first with burning brands, then with burning brands, wind, and radiant heat (UK, Ireland). Accredited test and classification reports are provided upon completion of the tests. The goal is typically to obtain a BROOF(t1), BROOF(t2), BROOF(t3), or BROOF(t4) classification, which is generally required for unrestricted use of roof coverings in most applications. The supporting deck (substrate) and test roof pitch can be selected from standard options or modeled on the intended roof construction. More information on test parameters can be found in our article on EN 13501-5 classification. When requesting an offer, please specify the test method and describe the roof system. This helps us prepare an accurate quote and sample preparation instructions more quickly.

Performance testing of protective paint systems for corrosion protection of steel structures according to ISO 12944-6. Results support coating selection and specification rather than predicting in-service durability. The method applies to protective paint systems on the following steel substrates: Uncoated carbon steel, Hot-dip galvanized steel (ISO 1461), Steel with thermally sprayed metallic coatings (ISO 2063-1 and ISO 2063-2). It covers environments classified C2 to C5 and Im1 to Im3 per ISO 12944-2, and does not apply to electroplated or painted steel substrates. Testing combines standardized exposure regimes selected according to the target corrosivity category, which may include water immersion (ISO 2812-2), water condensation and humidity exposure (ISO 6270-1), neutral salt spray (ISO 9227), and cyclic ageing (ISO 12944-6:2018, Annex B). After exposure, the following assessments are performed: Adhesion by pull-off (ISO 4624), Blistering, rusting, cracking, flaking, and delamination, including corrosion at a scribe (ISO 4628 series). Sample preparation follows ISO 15528 and ISO 1513. Dry-film thickness (ISO 2808) is measured and recorded for each coating. Results are reported using the ISO 4628 designation scheme for each degradation mode, and the paint system is classified by corrosivity category and durability range (e.g., C5-M medium). The test report also includes drying, curing, and conditioning details; any reference system used; results for each individual test panel; and any deviations from the specified methods.

The EN 16516 standard outlines a test chamber method for determining volatile and semi-volatile organic compound (VOC and SVOC) emissions from construction products. Emissions are typically measured 28 days after the installation of representative test specimens in the test chamber. Conditions within the chamber are kept constant throughout the testing period, with the temperature at 23 ± 1 °C, relative humidity at 50 ± 5 %, air change rate at 0.5 per hour, and air velocity above the specimen at 0.1–0.3 m/s. The loading factor (ratio of exposed test specimen area to the empty chamber volume) is chosen based on product type and intended conditions of use. At the end of the test period, air is collected from the chamber using adsorbent tubes and analyzed by thermal desorption GC-MS (TD-GC/MS) to identify and quantify target compounds. The results will include: Individual concentrations of identified target compounds (including known carcinogenic VOCs), identified non-target compounds, and unidentified compounds. The last two are reported as toluene equivalents., Total VOC (TVOC), calculated as the sum of all compounds (identified and unidentified) eluting between and including n-hexane and n-hexadecane., Total SVOC (TSVOC), calculated as the sum of all compounds eluting after n-hexadecane, up to and including n-docosane.. For compliance assessment, the measured VOC levels can be compared with limits specified in national emissions standards or sustainability certifications, such as the German AgBB, French ANSES, Finnish M1 Emission Classification, or the Nordic Swan Ecolabel. Depending on the scheme, maximum limits can apply to TVOC, total carcinogenic VOC, and/or individual compounds, such as formaldehyde. The results for individual compounds can also be compared with EU-LCI values, harmonized health-based reference values based on the ‘lowest concentration of interest’ concept.

The EN 16989 standard describes a testing procedure to evaluate the burning behavior of complete passenger seats intended for use on trains, trams, and other rail vehicles. It replaces ISO/TR 9705, which was previously used for this purpose. Passing tests conducted according to EN 16989 shows that the material complies with requirement R18 specified in the EN 45545-2 standard. Evaluated parameters include: Maximum average rate of heat emissions (MARHE), measured in kW, Total smoke production over 600 seconds (TSP600), measured in m2. A maximum threshold only applies to hazard level HL3, but the parameter should be determined for HL2 products as well, as a limit may be introduced in the future., Flame height above seat base, measured in mm. Seats are usually tested in both intact and vandalized forms to assess how exposing the interior of upholstered sections affects burning behavior.

The EN 17084 standard outlines two ways to evaluate the toxicity potential of combustion products that are formed when a material intended for railway applications burns: ISO 5659-2 Smoke chamber test, used to determine the Conventional Index of Toxicity (CITG) of products that cover large surface areas., NF X70-100 Tube furnace test, used to determine the CIT of non-listed products, i.e., small-mass minor components.. We offer both of these tests, along with others described in the EN 45545-2 standard on the fire behavior of railway materials. Please contact our experts for more information and a quote for the full set of tests.

Cement material heat of hydration test using Isothermal Conduction Calorimetry (ICC) according to standard EN 196-11.

Determination of the properties of high-pressure decorative laminates (HPL), i.e., sheets based on thermosetting resins, according to EN 438-2. The standard specifies test methods applicable to HPL sheets as classified in EN 438-3 (standard grades), EN 438-4 (compact laminates), EN 438-5 (flooring grades), EN 438-6 (exterior grades), EN 438-8 (design laminates), and EN 438-9 (alternative core laminates). The following properties can be determined: Dimensions and geometry: thickness, flatness, length, width, edge straightness, and squareness, Surface resistance: abrasion, micro-scratch resistance, scratching, crazing, and impact by small- and large-diameter balls, Stain and chemical resistance: resistance to domestic staining agents and chemicals, Thermal and moisture resistance: resistance to dry heat, wet heat, boiling water immersion, water vapor, wet conditions, and climatic shock, Light and UV resistance: lightfastness and resistance to artificial weathering and UV light, Formability: assessment of postformability characteristics, Dimensional stability at elevated temperature. Tests can be performed as pass/fail assessments against specified requirements or to generate quantitative performance data for product classification and comparison. Please specify the properties to be tested when requesting a quote.

Determination of methane transmission rate of plastic films and sheet-like materials with the differential pressure method (ISO 15105-1). Testing is performed on two parallel samples. Measurement temperature can be chosen from 0 °C to 200 °C with a relative humidity of 0%. Fragile samples can be measured with the equal pressure method (ISO 15105-2) for an additional fee.

Determination of the resistance of paint films and coating systems to condensation according to ISO 6270-1. The method is applicable to coatings on both porous substrates (wood, plaster, plasterboard) and non-porous substrates (metal) and provides an indication of performance under severe exposure conditions where continuous condensation occurs on the coating surface. Test specimens are exposed to a condensation-water atmosphere for 240 hours. Following exposure, specimens are rinsed with tap water and lightly dried with paper towels before assessment. Coating condition is evaluated according to ISO 4628-1 (general principles and rating schemes) and ISO 4628-5 (assessment of degree of flaking), covering defects such as blistering, rusting, cracking, flaking, and delamination. A photographic report is provided documenting the condition of specimens at each of the following stages: Before exposure, After chamber exposure, After rinsing with tap water, After light drying with paper towels. Results are expressed using the ISO 4628 designation scheme. The test does not yield lifetime prediction data and is not intended to simulate specific outdoor environments; results are best used for comparative ranking of coating systems or compliance with specified requirements.

Determination of the surface-drying characteristics of paints, varnishes, and related coating materials that dry by air action or chemical reaction, according to ISO 9117-3. The method does not apply to stoving products. The test uses ballotini glass beads applied to the coating surface to assess the surface-drying state. It can be performed in two ways: as a pass/fail test determining whether the surface-dry state has been reached after a specified time, or by repeated assessment at defined intervals to establish the surface-drying time. Results are reported as the surface-drying state at the specified time (go/no go) or as the time required to reach the surface-dry state. Measurlabs can also offer the following alternative drying tests from the ISO 9117 series: through-dry state and through-dry time (ISO 9117-1), pressure test for stackability (ISO 9117-2), mechanical recorder test (ISO 9117-4), modified Bandow-Wolff test (ISO 9117-5), and print-free test (ISO 9117-6). Please ask our experts for more information and a quote.