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Classification and modification of slake durability test for different types of rocks

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Abstract

Rocks exposed to atmospheric conditions are subjected to weathering processes driven by numerous factors especially precipitation. The slaking behavior attributed to water-induced weathering particularly affects rocks containing pore spaces, fractures, and joints. This study aims to improve the slake durability test and propose a new classification method that is consistent with field conditions. The configured discard method (CDM), which incorporates the discard method (DM) to calculate the retaining weights after wet-dry cycles, is introduced. In this method, specimens are fully saturated in a vacuum chamber to approximate field conditions. The DM excludes discarded fragments by simulating rock mass detachment and result in a new equation and classification table based on two wet-dry cycles, Schmidt rebound hammer, point load index test, and effective porosity. In the study, 86 rock slopes across Turkey were investigated and different rock types were considered for the development of the equations, tables, and classification scheme. Significant differences are observed in comparisons with the standard method (SM), emphasizing the need to improve the methodology. An equation, combination of strength and porosity, is presented to provide a better correlation with slake durability. The study presents a new classification system based on CDM considering site performance and rock-specific parameters. The method was validated through tests, incorporating a new drum design with slot-type meshes, and showed higher accuracy compared to SM. Furthermore, the consistency of CDM with field observations and comparison with previous studies provides a more realistic representation of slake durability, underlining its reliability and potential for wider application.

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Funding

This study is financially supported by METU Research Fund Project (GAP-309-2019-10215).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Graduate School of Science and Technology, Niigata University, 9502181, Niigata, Japan

    Timur Ersöz

  2. Department of Geological Engineering, METU, Ankara, 06800, Turkey

    Tamer Topal

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  1. Timur Ersöz
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  2. Tamer Topal
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Correspondence to Timur Ersöz.

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Ersöz, T., Topal, T. Classification and modification of slake durability test for different types of rocks. Bull Eng Geol Environ 83, 139 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10064-024-03607-y

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