Characterization of Weathered Soft Rock Mass by Index Tests

Authors: Fernandes Leão M*

Volume 1, Issue 1

Abstract

The understanding of geotechnical and geomechanical rock mass behavior is challenging, mainly regarding weathered parts, since they may trigger stability issues. Soft Rocks, as phyllite, are known to enhance these problems. In this case, a road cut on a highway between the cities of Ouro Preto and Mariana (MG – Brazil) was studied, showing a particular weathering zone with changing conditions. After morphological description and geological fragmentation (using geological hammer, the Schmidt hammer and a switchblade) of the weathering zone, tests were done on rock matrix and rock mass in order to identify the discontinuity features. Physical properties were determined by physical index, using the point load test and slake durability test. The results permit to define the weathering zone, showing some huge anisotropy and heterogeneity in the rock properties.

Keywords: Index-Tests; Weathering Profile; Quadrilátero Ferrífero

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