The block design has been subject to a number of tests including structural stability and shielding efficiency. The results of these tests are:

Stability - That a single empty block can be vertically loaded to 25 tonnes (5 times design) without catastrophic failure and an ability to almost return to the original dimensions. An empty block can carry a load of 7 concrete filled blocks (5 tonnes) without significant distortion and will return to its former shape. The 8 block high wall, filled with water, can tilt to at least 5% from vertical without toppling.
The radiation shielding tests indicated that the efficiency at the joints was just 17% less than that at the centre of the block.

Freezing - Tests have shown that water inside the block will take over 100hrs to freeze in a -22C cold room atmosphere and subsequently over 200 hours to thaw in ambient conditions.

Radiation Stability - Polythene liners are regularly used in radioactive waste containers as the material offers high stability under radiation conditions. Up to 10E6 Gy before softening occurs. The black material used in the MRP systems also offers higher stability in UV radiation and is therefore suitable for outdoor use.

Decontamination - The surface finish of the blocks is polished and free from inclusions, resulting in a product which can be easily decontaminated, for re-use elsewhere. The use of strippable coatings is recommended where heavy airborne contamination is expected. The smooth surface of the block will aid the removal of the strippable coating when required. The smooth polyethylene finish can be easily wiped over to remove loose contamination and the potential for contamination traps have been minimised.

Traceability - Each block is marked with an adhesive, metallic backed, label with a discreet bar code number that is entered in the company held database. We are, therefore, able to provide a life history of every block supplied.

Recycling - The material of construction is perfectly suitable for recycling using modern techniques of shredding and pelletising. Other contaminants (metallic backed labels, thread inserts, etc) should be removed or minimised before recycling is considered.

Impact - Tests have shown that individual blocks can withstand impact energies of over 1.1kJ without failure.