Business Details
16 Years
experience
Trusted Petrographic Analysis Services in Saint Paul, MN
American Petrographic Services specializes in petrographic analysis of construction materials, providing critical insights into material quality and failure causes. Our team combines over 45 years of collective experience with advanced diagnostic tools like polarized light microscopes and X-ray diffraction analysis to deliver precise evaluations. We offer comprehensive forensic testing for concrete, aggregate, masonry, and stone, supporting both new construction and historical restoration projects.Our commitment to timeliness ensures clients receive verbal results when needed, with a rush service guaranteeing five-day turnaround. Backed by sister company American Engineering Testing, Inc., we provide physical and chemical analysis alongside expert consultation to solve complex material challenges.
Services
Aggregate Analysis
Concrete Forensics
Masonry Evaluation
Stone Diagnostics
Archaeopetrography
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- 45+ years of combined experience in petrographic analysis
- State-of-the-art diagnostic tools including SEM and FTIR
- Rush service available for expedited results
- Comprehensive physical/chemical testing through sister company AET
- Expert consultation with photographic documentation
Services
Aggregate Analysis
We perform petrographic analysis (ASTM C295) on concrete aggregates to identify alkali reactions, deterioration risks, and gradation issues. Our testing includes clay lumps, specific gravity, and abrasion loss assessments. Using advanced microscopy and chemical analysis, we determine material suitability for construction projects while providing detailed reports with photographic documentation.
Concrete Forensics
Our full petrographic analysis (ASTM C856) diagnoses concrete failures through microscopic examination and air void analysis. We identify causes like ASR, cracking, and poor consolidation while offering repair recommendations. The service includes comprehensive reports with photographic evidence and consultation to understand failure mechanisms and prevent future issues.
Masonry Evaluation
We analyze mortar composition and masonry units to determine compressive strength, permeability, and failure causes. Our ASTM C1324-compliant testing identifies mix designs and deterioration factors like efflorescence. We provide restoration guidance for historical structures and optimize mix designs for new construction projects requiring durable masonry systems.
Stone Diagnostics
Using polarized light microscopy and X-ray diffraction, we assess stone deterioration from weathering or pollution. Our analysis identifies mineral alterations causing spalling and structural weakness. We offer material selection guidance for new construction and remediation strategies for existing structures, including expert witness services for litigation cases involving stone failures.
Archaeopetrography
We employ microscopic and chemical analysis to authenticate stone and gold artifacts through weathering profiles and material consistency checks. Our services include age dating and provenance verification for archaeological items. This specialized analysis supports historical research and hoax detection for artifacts like rune stones and ancient structures.
People
Scott Wolter
President
Geologist with 30+ years of experience in petrography and forensic material analysis. Leads APS's technical team in solving construction material failures and authenticating archaeological artifacts.
Questions
What materials do you analyze?
We analyze concrete, aggregate, masonry, stone, and archaeological artifacts using petrographic and chemical testing methods.
How do I submit samples?
Send samples to 550 Cleveland Avenue North, Saint Paul, MN 55114 with contact information and work scope details.
Do you offer rush services?
Yes, we guarantee expedited turnaround within five business days for urgent petrographic analysis requests.
What testing standards do you follow?
We follow ASTM standards including C295 for aggregate analysis, C856 for concrete petrography, and C1324 for mortar evaluation.
Can you assist with litigation cases?
Yes, we provide expert witness services and forensic analysis for construction defect litigation involving materials failure.
