Nondestructive evaluation of granite building stones and relation with key mechanical parameters

Abstract

The present paper deals with the nondestructive evaluation of distinct types of granites considering in-situ and laboratory conditions. The main aims of the paper consists of: (a) obtaining a better insight on the possibility of using simple nondestructive techniques such as ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) and Schmidt hammer rebound hardness to predict mechanical properties; (b) assessment of roughness of surface of granites,weathering and size in the nondestructive indexes; (c) comparison between indirect and direct UPV. From an experimental campaign based on nondestructive techniques it was observed that natural roughness of surfaces influences the hardness of granites, particularly in weathered granites. Lower influence of the roughness was observed in the ultrasonic pulse velocity, especially in case of fresh granites.