A new technique for rapid and non-destructive measurement of rock-surface moisture content; preliminary application to weathering studies of sandstone blocks

The possibility of in situ rapid, non-destructive measuring of rock moisture content using an infrared optical moisture meter is examined. A laboratory test indicates that a linear relation is found between absorbance intensity of infrared rays and the moisture content of the surface of rock samples. The instrument was applied in the field in order to understand the weathering processes in sandstone blocks used for a masonry bridge pier better. The results show that the spatial and temporal changes in rock-surface moisture content are accurately measured, and that the infrared moisture meter is useful for weathering studies. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.