The construction industry needs to perform mechanical tests to confirm that material properties are reliable and safe and within design limits.

Construction materials and structures include minerals, plastics, wood, metals, and composites, used for roads, bridges, civil engineering structures, and buildings. They are used in a variety of forms, including powder, masses, bulk goods, foils, plates, and stones.

Strength and deformation tests play a prominent role, with relatively high loads and test load distribution being important. Binders such as cement and mortar are important. Other key materials include concrete, refractory materials, sandstones, and heat insulating materials. Ceramics include glazes, porcelain, tiles, tubes and pipes, bricks and roof tiles.