Non-destructive estimation of uniaxial compressive strength of deteriorated carbonate building stones by frost action

Abstract

Uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), which is one of the most important engineering properties of natural building blocks, exhibits a decrease at various rates under the effect of freeze-thaw (FT) cycles. In this study, practical estimation of UCS loss of 21 groups of carbonate building stones exposed to 4, 7, 10, 14, 20, 28, 35, 56, 70 and 84 FT cycles is aimed by proposed estimation models. In all models, the Leeb hardness (HLD), which is practically determined by a dynamic surface hardness test method, was used as major input parameter. Other basic stone properties and number of FT cycles were also used as additional input parameters in developed models. The test results indicated that HLD and UCS values decreased up to 13 and 40%, respectively, at the end of 84 FT cycles. Proposed equations are reliable and beneficial in estimation of deteriorated UCS values of carbonate building stones in practical engineering applications and scientific studies.