Penetrometric test on mortar

Through the penetrometric investigation, on-site qualitative information on a mortar is acquired through the penetration of a steel needle through blows generated with constant energy. The result obtained is the depth of penetration, expressed in millimetres, over a number of shots defined according to the type of procedure used. By correlation curves it is possible to obtain an indicative estimate of the mechanical resistance of the mortar in relation to the penetration depth. The data obtained are: measurement of the homogeneity of the layer of the mortar joint, both in the surface and inner areas, in order to verify any degradation phenomena, carbonation, presence of more recent repointings; estimate of the mechanical resistance of the mortar.