Measurement of depth, identification of material and air void content
Core samples are taken from reinstatements or newly laid footways and carriageways, delivered to our UKAS accredited testing laboratory for the following areas of compliance:
Core depth and material compliance
Measuring the depth of a core is a key part of the testing. If the reinstatement is not of the correct depth, it will not be stable or durable and will fail the SROH requirements. The SROH sets out the legal requirements for material and stone size to be used in highways and footways.
Air voids
Testing the air voids in a core shows that NRSWA legislation is being complied with and that voids are at the correct SROH specification. The presence of water in pavements is detrimental to its life. It is vital to achieve adequate compaction to keep initial permeability low and prevent increased oxidation, water damage spalling and cracking. Low air voids may cause rutting and bleeding. Air void testing also proves that materials which are designed to be porous allow water to pass through the matrix so that drainage occurs.
Core sampling and testing is the only reliable way to check the compliance of reinstatements on public highways and footways. If you want to find out more about the processes that we follow please click here
