ENGINEERING CHARACTERISTICS OF EGYPTIAN LIMESTONE

Purpose. Study of physical properties such as porosity, density and mechanical properties such as compressive strength and tensile strength of Egyptian limestone based on experimental investigations. Methods. In this paper using physical and mechanical properties to evaluate the Egyptian limestone according to the relationship between their properties especially the degree of water saturation. Samples were obtained from six different locations (Helwan, Minia, Assuit, Qena, Sohag, and Aswan). Findings. The strong correlation between porosity and density, and good correlations between uniaxial strength and tensile strength. Carried out results indicated that, small porosity results in greater rock strength and vice versa. Originality. Applying the fitting curve technique to check the best correlation between the different property of limestone to identify the best relationship to apply the prediction to find the limestone property in other location as regards applying conditions. Practical implications. Results carried out that the strong correlation between porosity and density, and good correlations between uniaxial strength and tensile strength as summarize in the outcome of data interpretation. Highest quality stones, in terms of their hydric behavior and mechanical properties, are the index for the suitability of using limestone.