Mattest - Quality Testing for the Construction Industry

Pyrite Testing - Ireland

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Mattest have been involved in the analysis and testing for the presence of pyrite since 2007 when it was established that there was a substantial issue in relation to the swelling of floors as a result of the presence of pyrite in the backfill. In 2013 I.S. 398-1:2013 “Reactive pyrite in sub-floor hardcore material – Part 1: Testing and categorization protocol” was published.

Pyrite is a naturally occurring mineral which may be present in sedimentary rock deposits. When pyrite is exposed to oxygen and moisture it oxidises and produces sulphuric acid which then may react with calcium carbonates in the backfill to form gypsum which results in the swelling of the backfill.

Mattest provide affordable testing sampling and regimes depending on the requirements of the customer.

Mattest carry out pyrite and suitability of backfill analysis for quarry operations and aggregate suppliers which may include a full suite of tests in accordance with SR 21 Annex E and the NRA Specification for Roadworks.

Common tests in relation to pyrite include:

  • Total Sulfur
  • Acid Soluble Sulfate
  • Oxidisible Sulphides
  • Petrographic Analysis
Posted on Tuesday, 24 May 2016  |  By Barry Gilroy
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