Abstract: An isobaric mercury dilatometer for measurements of volume changes of solid specimens under a constant hydrostatic pressure either as a function of time or as a function of temperature. It includes structures for minimizing entrapment of air in the system, accurate computerized measurements in spite of the presence of some air. A two-piece stainless steel container is equipped with a horizontally situated volume-measuring stem, a filling device, an air vent and a temperature sensor. The specimen to be studied is placed in the container which is subsequently filled with mercury up to the stem. The volume changes of the specimen is reflected to the capacitance signals of an aluminum sleeve around the stem, while the temperature sensor generates temperature-related electronic signals. Both signals are received by a computer which translates them into volume and temperature data.

Abstract: A means and method for determination of the pore structure of porous materials using electrical conductance. A sample of porous material is saturated with electrolytic solution and positioned into a container. Temperature and conductance of the sample are monitored as temperature is varied. The temperature is varied so as to create phase transitions in at least a portion of the electrolytic solution existing in the sample. The control means can be utilized to control the sequence of temperature changes and to receive and record the temperature and conductance readings. Alternative means for accomplishing the method of the invention are disclosed, including a specific means for positioning a sample, attaching electrodes to its opposite sides, and attaching a temperature sensing device to the sample, and at the same time isolating and insulating all electrical connections.

Abstract: An ice porosimeter for the accurate and efficient derivation of measurements concerning the porosity of a porous material, which includes a mercury dilatometer having a mercury-filled reservoir with a capillary stem extending upwardly therefrom. The porous material to be analyzed is inserted into the reservoir after it is saturated with water. The temperature of the contents of the reservoir is then varied to cause the water in the porous material to change state, either freezing the water or melting the ice. A thermistor measures the temperature in the reservoir and transmits these readings to a means for recording those measurements. Concurrently, a condenser is placed surrounding the capillary stem of the dilatometer and is connected to electrical circuitry which induces a capacitance across the condenser.