Penetrometric test on mortar

Penetrometric test provides on-site qualitative information on mortar by measuring the penetration depth – expressed in millimeters – of a steel needle, driven by blows of constant energy.
By using correlation curves, it is possible to estimate the compressive strength of mortar based on penetration depth.
The test provides the following data: assessment of the homogeneity of the mortar joint, both at the surface and internally, to detect potential degradation, carbonation, or the presence of repointing interventions; estimation of the mechanical strength of mortar.