Building Materials Science Division(BMSD)
Laboratory Testing, Algorithms & Quality Assurance
BMSD operates a dedicated Building Materials Science Laboratory, structured and managed in alignment with the international standard ISO/IEC 17025:2017, which governs the competence of testing and calibration laboratories. The laboratory supports BITRI’s research and innovation efforts by providing high-quality, reliable, and standards-compliant testing services to both internal projects and external stakeholders in the construction and materials sectors.
Innovative Materials Development
Create new materials from local resources, fly ash, copper slag and other by-products to cut cost and impact.
- Local raw resource valorisation
- Prototype → performance validation
Recycling & Performance Enhancement
Repurpose and scientifically modify conventional materials to extend lifecycle and boost strength and durability.
- Insulation and durability gains
- Waste-to-value processes
Sustainable Cement & Binders
Develop low-carbon alternatives—geopolymers, LC3 blends and glass-ceramics—to shrink construction footprints.
- Binder formulation & testing
- Durability and lifecycle analysis
Technology Deployment & Training
Deploy KSBB and other solutions; support SMEs and empower local contractors through training.
- Field pilots and scale-up
- Contractor enablement
Services we offer
Delivered through the ISO/IEC 17025:2017-accredited Building Materials Science Laboratory.
Our laboratory offers a comprehensive range of accredited material testing services, ensuring performance verification, compliance, and quality assurance across a wide variety of construction materials. These include:
Soundness Testing
Soundness testing of clay bricks to assess volumetric stability.
Transverse (flexural) strength Testing
Testing of concrete roofing tiles to evaluate load-bearing capacity under bending stress.
Abrasion Resistance Testing
Testing of concrete pavers to determine surface durability and wear characteristics. .
Compressive Strength Testing
Testing of bricks and concrete cubes to measure their load resistance under axial pressure.
Tensile Strength Testing
Testing of steel to evaluate its ability to resist pulling forces.
Cement Testing
Testing of cement covering: Compressive Strength, Soundness, Fineness, Density, and Setting time and consistency
These tests are performed in accordance with recognised international and regional standards (e.g., ASTM, SANS, EN), supporting product development, certification, and regulatory compliance.
Key innovations & impact
Kgalagadi Sand Building Block (KSBB)
Affordable, eco-friendly blocks deployed in rural communities.
Geopolymer & LC3 Cement
Low-carbon alternatives using Botswana’s clays and fly ash.
Glass-Ceramics
High-performance materials valorising copper slag and fly ash.
Circular Construction
Extending lifecycles by recycling and valorising industrial waste.
Partner with BMSD
From lab validation to real‑world deployment—let’s build better with Botswana’s resources.