The effect of weathering on pore geometry and compressive strength of selected rock types from Turkey

Weathering processes cause important changes in rock porosity. Besides porosity, distribution of pore sizes is significant for the identification of changes due to rock weathering and its effects on fabric. The formation of secondary porosity in different types of rock taken from different parts of Turkey was examined and the results are presented in this paper. The aim of this study was to observe changes in porosity due to weathering. Effective porosity, mercury intrusion porosimetry, and optical and scanning electron microscopy were used to evaluate the changes in pore geometry of the rocks. Additionally, the dry density, water absorption and uniaxial compressive strength of the rocks at different weathering stages were determined. Analysis of experimental data showed that microstructure of the rocks in relation to weathering is the main feature, which controls their physical and mechanical properties. The study revealed that fabric characteristics, particularly the pore and fracture geometry are very important characteristics for assessment of the behaviour of weathered rock. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved