The Evaluation of Geotechnical Properties of Precambrian Hazara Slates, Hazara-Kashmir Syntaxis, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan

Abstract

The fold and thrust belt of the eastern Hazara division characterised the sedimentary rocks of Precambrian to Paleocene age.  The sequence and formation of Precambrian signify the oldest rock unit as Hazara Slate.  Geological map of the study area was prepared at the scale of 1:75,000 for about 140 square kilometre area located in Muzaffarabad (Azad Kashmir) district and Lohargali of Abbottabad (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) district. The lab analysis shows that it is not rational to use Hazara slates as aggregate material due to its mineral accumulation and composition. Los Angele’s Abrasion Value, Impact Value, Crushing Value, Specific Gravity, Water Absorption, Flakiness Index, Elongation Index, Porosity Value, California Bearing Ratio test and Grain Size Analysis were done and co-related with B.S standards and the parameters were deduced. It was observed that the mineral composition of Hazara Slates ranges for illite, kaolinite, quartz and carbonate. Kaolinite and illite are clay minerals which have swelling potential to cause construction material damage the material. The presence of Carbonate and Quartz gives strength to the material, but its percentage is low. Reserves calculation of different localities was also done for the quarry development.