Durability of Some Building Stones in Korea

ABSTRACT: Physical and chemical properties of some Korean building stones were measured and their durability tests such as freeze-thaw and acid immersion test were also conducted to infer their resistances against weathering. In terms of weight loss, absorption and strength, generally fine grained stones have relatively superior quality in durability. Correlation analysis of the physical properties of granitic building stones shows that P-wave velocity, absorption and porosity have fairly strong associations. Some physical properties such as tensile strength, P-wave velocity and porosity are suggested as significant guides for the judgement of durability of building stones. Contents of A1₂0₃ and FeO in the granitic rocks can be used to estimate the readiness to chemical weathering and deterioration.