Slake durability index tests have been performed up to 100 cycles in an attempt to assess long-term durability of thirteen rock types, divided here into four groups: basalt, carbonate, sandstone and granite groups. This long-term test is intended to distinguish the degradation rates of the tested rocks with similar strengths. Three series of the slaking cycles are performed under dry, wet and acidic conditions. The results indicate that degradation of carbonate rocks, particularly travertine, significantly increase when they subject to water and acid. Ferrous oxide contents and amount of vesicles and pore spaces clearly accelerate the degradation rate of the tested basaltic rocks. Types and cohesive bonding of the cementing materials are important factors controlling the durability of the tested sandstones. Water and acid have insignificant impact on the durability of the tested granites.
Keywords
Slake Durability, Acid, Decorating rock, Degradation