Evaluating the Effects of Textural Properties on the Strength Parameters of Marbles from North-Western Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract

Marble is globally used as a natural stone for decorative and architectural purposes. Primary utilization of marble is as building and dimension stones. Mechanical properties and aesthetic aspects are major characteristics of marble and decisive factors for its selection and utilization. It is therefore imperative to evaluate the key strength properties i.e. Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS) and Uniaxial Tensile Strength (UTS) of marble before its utilization. These key strength parameters are dependent on textural features of marble. Present study investigates the effect of two key textural features i.e. grain size and grain shape on two key strength parameters i.e. UCS and UTS of marble samples taken from three different regions i.e. Buner, Chitral and Swat in the north western part of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Correlation and regression analysis between these textural properties and strength parameters revealed that prominent textural features of grain size and shape can be used as a quick indicator for assessment of strength parameters and as guideline for appropriate utilization of marble.