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Predicting uniaxial compressive strength, modulus of elasticity and index properties of rocks using the Schmidt hammer

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Abstract

The Schmidt hammer test is a non-destructive method which can be used in both laboratory and field to provide a quick and relatively inexpensive measure of rock hardness. The study investigated the relationship between the Schmidt hardness and modulus of elasticity, uniaxial compressive strength and index properties of nine types of rock including travertine, limestone, dolomitic limestone and schist. The empirical equations developed indicated the Schmidt hardness rebound values have a reliable relationship with the uniaxial compressive strength of rock (r = 0.92). Comparing the results with those reported by other researchers, it is concluded that no single relationship can be considered reliable for all rock types. Whilst the equations developed in this study may be useful at a preliminary stage of design, they should be used with caution and only for the specified rock types.

Résumé

Le test au marteau de Schmidt est une méthode non-destructive qui peut être utilisée au laboratoire ou sur le terrain afin de fournir une mesure rapide et relativement peu coûteuse de la dureté d’une roche. L’étude a concerné la recherche de relations entre la dureté de Schmidt et le module d’élasticité, la résistance à la compression uniaxiale et divers indices géotechniques pour neuf types de roches (travertins, calcaires, calcaires dolomitiques, et schistes). Les équations empiriques établies indiquent que les valeurs de rebond obtenues au marteau de Schmidt sont corrélées de façon fiable avec la résistance à la compression uniaxiale de la roche (r = 0,92). Comparant ces résultats avec ceux obtenus par d’autres chercheurs, on peut conclure qu’il n’est pas possible de retenir une seule relation pour tous les types de roches. Tandis que les équations présentées dans cette étude peuvent être utiles dans des étapes préliminaires de conception, elles devraient être utilisées avec prudence et seulement pour des types de roches spécifiques.

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Acknowledgments

The author thanks to the Research Fund of the Pamukkale University for the financial support. Project Number: 2006/MHF-004. The author would like to express his appreciation to Komurcuoglu Travertine Company in Denizli for their friendship and logistic support during field works. Also, special thanks to Dr. Candan Gokceoglu from Hacettepe University for his valuable suggestions on the manuscript.

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  1. Geological Engineering Department, Engineering Faculty, Pamukkale University, 20020, Denizli, Turkey

    Saffet Yagiz

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  1. Saffet Yagiz
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Yagiz, S. Predicting uniaxial compressive strength, modulus of elasticity and index properties of rocks using the Schmidt hammer. Bull Eng Geol Environ 68, 55–63 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10064-008-0172-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10064-008-0172-z

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