Concrete Petrography: A Handbook of Investigative Techniques

Rating:
Summary: Overall this is an excellent book
Review: St. John, Poole, and Sims are internationally known experts in concrete petrography and their book brings together information from a wide range of sources. The primary focus of this book is the use of the petrological polarizing microscope for the study of concrete and related materials. Petrographic methods used for many years in geology are also valuable in the study of concrete. The book assumes a working knowledge of the petrographic techniques. Chapter two includes a brief description of petrographic examination techniques and chapter three discusses sample preparation. The main body of the work provides a detailed discussion of the use of petrographic microscopy to study the composition, appearance, and texture of concrete and related materials. A chapter on the examination of deteriorated and damaged concrete, also, is included. Color photomicrographs included throughout the book enhance its value. The detailed index makes locating specific information relatively easy.

Overall this is an excellent book but the audience is somewhat limited. It is most useful for petrographers studying concrete and related materials but should be useful to users involved with the characterization and testing of concrete who are not familiar with these methods. It is therefore recommended for university students.