| Abstract: | A total of 21 different types of British and European Mesozoic limestones have been subjected to simulated salt weathering using sodium sulphate (Na2SO4) with the following aims: assessment of the relative durabilities of different types of limestone; assessment of the importance of modulus of elasticity and other factors in affecting durability; and assessment of the use of impulse excitation techniques to monitor changes in rock modulus of elasticity. The rocks showed a wide spectrum of durabilities; while rocks with high values of modulus of elasticity, lower water absorption capacities, high densities and low salt uptakes tended to be durable, there were anomalies, the explanation for which probably lies in their pore structures. Non-destructive testing techniques showed that, although the more durable rocks failed to lose weight or to show visual signs of disintegration, their modulus of elasticity values did tend to decline, indicating a loss in strength. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. |
