Analysis of Effects of Rock Physical Properties Changes from Freeze–Thaw Weathering in Ny-Ålesund Region: Part 2—Correlations and Prediction of Weathered Properties

Abstract

From the examination of rock physical parameters’ changes of compressive strength, shore hardness, water absorption, P-wave velocity with increasing freeze–thaw cycles, correlations of these parameters were investigated. Rock samples were collected from Ny-Ålesund region in Norway. As compressive strength and shore hardness inherently have high uncertainties due to inhomogeneous rock composition and internal fissures and cracks, only the relationship between water absorption and P-wave velocity revealed high correlations, providing meaningful linear fitting equations. From the correlation analysis results and clear trends of increasing water absorption and decreasing P-wave velocity with increasing freeze–thaw cycle found in part one of the companion study, prediction equations of future changes of rock physical parameters are proposed using P-wave velocity or water absorption. In addition, future rock weathering grade changes with time can be predicted from estimation of water absorption or P-wave velocity change due to freeze–thaw cycles.

Keywords

• rock weathering
• rock weathering grade
• freeze–thaw cycle
• air temperature
• P-wave velocity
• water absorption