Document Type : Original Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Geology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran

2 Department of Mining and Mineral Extraction, Çan Vocational School, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çan, Turkey

10.22044/jme.2025.15591.2989

Abstract

Brazilian tensile strength (BTS) is an important parameter in mining activities, particularly in conditions that rocks are under tensile stresses. This test measures the indirect tensile strength of rocks, which is crucial for understanding the mechanical behavior and quality of rocks in the mining context, including slope stability analysis, blast design, rock support systems, excavation and equipment selection, fracture propagation, and hydraulic fracturing and drilling. So far, no classification of tensile strength of rock for mining applications has been presented. In the present study, a new rock classification based on BTS for the various rocks was proposed. To achieve this purpose, by a reviewing previous studies, uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) and BTS of various rock classes, including igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic were collected. For each rock class, the correlation equations between UCS and BTS were developed using simple regression analysis. Using data analyses, the rocks was categorized into to seven BTS classes. The findings revealed that igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks have a wide range of BTS values, and subsequent fall into the different BTS classes. The validity of BTS classification was verified using data of BTS and UCS of various rock classes published in the literature, and results showed that BTS can be as a suitable indicator for preliminary assessment of rock quality. This can lead to a better understand from the strength behavior of the rock under tensile stresses in site a mining activity, and therefore, a more accurate design of a mining project.

Keywords

Main Subjects

[1]. Diedeirchs, M.S. (1999). Instability of hard rock masses: the role of tensile damage and relaxation. PhD Thesis, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada, pp 566.
[2]. Dan, D.Q., Konietzky, H., & Herbst, M. (2013). Brazilian tensile strength tests on some anisotropic rocks. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 58, 1–7.
[3]. Wei, J., Zhou, J., Song, J-J., Chen, Y., & Kulatilake, P.H.S.W. (2021). Estimation of tensile strength and moduli of a tension-compression bi-modular rock. Geomechanics and Geoengineering, 24(4), 349–358.
[4]. Zhou, J., Huang, S., & Qiu, Y. (2022). Optimization of random forest through the use of MVO, GWO and MFO in evaluating the stability of underground entry-type excavations. Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology, 124, :104494.
[5]. Qiu, Y., & Zhou, J. (2023). Short-term rockburst prediction in underground project: insights from an explainable and interpretable ensemble learning model. Acta Geotechnica, 18(12), 6655–6685.
[6]. Hassanpour, J., Rostami, J., Khamehchiyan, M., & Bruland, A. (2009). Developing new equations for TBM performance prediction in carbonate-argillaceous rocks: a case history of Nowsood water conveyance tunnel. Geomechanics and Geoengineering, 4, 287–297.
[7]. Gurocak, Z., Solanki, P., Alemdag, S., & Zaman, M.M. (2012). New considerations for empirical estimation of tensile strength of rocks. Engineering Geology, 145–146, 1–8.
[8]. Mohammed, D.A., Alshkane, Y.M., Hamaamin, Y.A., & Mahmood, A.O. (2022). Tensile strength of different types of limestone rocks in north of Iraq. Innovative Infrastructure Solutions, 7, 25.
[9]. Zalooli, A., Khamehchiyan, M., Nikudel, M.R., & Jamshidi, A. (2017). Deterioration of travertine samples due to magnesium sulfate crystallization pressure: examples from Iran. Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, 35, 463–473.
[10]. Ur Rehman, A., Ahmed, W., Azam, S., Sajid, M. (2022). Characterization and thermal behavior of marble from northwestern Pakistan. Innovative Infrastructure Solutions, 7, 95.
[11]. Perras, M.A., & Diederichs, M.S. (2014). A review of the tensile strength of rock: Concepts and testing. Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, 32, 525–546.
[12]. Griffith, A.A. (1921). The phenomena of rupture and flow in solids. Philosophical Transactions, 221A, 163–198.
[13]. Stacey, T.R. (1981). A simple extension strain criterion for fracture of brittle rock. International Journal of Fracture, 18, 469–474.
[14]. Myer, L.R., Kemeny, J.M., Zheng, Z., Suarex, R., Ewy, R.T., & Cook, N.G.W. (1992). Extensile cracking in porous rock under differential compressive stress. In: Li LY (ed) Micromechanical modeling of quasi-brittle materials behaviour. Applied Mechanics Reviews, 45(8), 263–280.
[15]. Haimson, B.C., & Cornet, F.H. (2003). ISRM suggested methods for rock stress estimation—Part 3: hydraulic fracturing (HF) and/or hydraulic testing of pre-existing fractures (HTPF). International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 40, 1011–1020.
[16]. Diederichs, M.S., & Kaiser, P.K. (1999). Tensile strength and abutment relaxation as failure control mechanics in underground excavations. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 36, 69–96.
[17]. He, Z., Wilson, S.B., Monjezi, M., & Tean, T.T. (2024). Estimating Brazilian tensile strength of granite rocks using metaheuristic algorithms-based self-organizing neural networks. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 57, 4653–4668.
[18]. Zhou, J., Huang, S., & Qiu, Y. (2022). Optimization of random forest through the use of MVO, GWO and MFO in evaluating the stability of underground entry-type excavations. Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology, 124, 104494.
[19]. Qiu, Y., & Zhou, J. (2023). Short-term rockburst prediction in underground project: insights from an explainable and interpretable ensemble learning model. Acta Geotechnica, 18(12), 6655–6685.
[20]. Bell, F.G., & Lindsay, P. (1999). The petrographic and geotechnical properties of some sandstone from the newspaper member of the Natal Group near Durban, South Africa. Engineering Geology, 53, 57–81.
[21]. Kilic, A., & Teymen, A. (2008). Determination of mechanical properties of rocks using simple methods. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 67, 237–244.
[22]. Huang, L., Asteris, P.G., Koopialipoor, M., Armaghani, D.J., & Tahir, M.M. (2019). Invasive weed optimization technique-based ANN to the prediction of rock tensile strength. Applied Sciences, 9, 5372.
[23]. Zheng, J., Shen, M., Motahari, M.R., & Khajehzadeh, M. (2023). Prediction of rock tensile strength using soft computing and statistical methods. Periodica Polytechnica Civil Engineering, 67, 902–913.
[24]. ISRM, (1981). Rock characterization testing and monitoring. ISRM suggested methods. Pergamon Press, Oxford.
[25]. Yilmaz, I. (2010). Use of the core strangle test for tensile strength estimation and rock mass classification. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 47, 845–850.
[26]. Minaeian, B., & Ahangari, K. (2017). Prediction of the uniaxial compressive strength and Brazilian tensile strength of weak conglomerate. International Journal of Geo-Engineering, 8, 19.
[27]. Rastegar, F., Nejati, H.R., Ghazvinian, A., Hadei, M.R., & Nazerigivi, A. (2020). On applicability of some indirect tests for estimation of tensile strength of anisotropic rocks. Journal of Mining and Environment, 11, 711–720.
[28]. Kılıç, A., & Teymen, A.  (2008). Determination of mechanical properties of rocks using simple methods. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 67(2), 237–244.
[29]. Altindag, R., & Guney, A. (2010). Predicting the relationships between brittleness and mechanical properties (UCS, TS, and SH) of rocks. Scientific Research and Essays, 5, 2107–2118.
[30]. Heidari, M., Khanlari, G.R., Torabi Kaveh, M. Kargarian, S. (2012). Predicting the uniaxial compressive and tensile strengths of gypsum rock by point load testing. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 45, 265–273.
[31]. Karakul, H., & Ulusay, R.  (2013). Empirical correlations for predicting strength properties of rocks from P-wave velocity under different degrees of saturation. Rock Mechanic and Rock Engineering, 46(5), 981–999.
[32]. K. Karaman, A., Kesimal, H., & Ersoy, A. (2015). comparative assessment of indirect methods for estimating the uniaxial compressive and tensile strength of rocks. Arabian Journal of Geosciences, 8(4), 2393–2403.
[33]. Jamshidi, A., Nikudel, M.R., Khamehchiyan, M., Zarei Sahamieh, R., & Abdi, Y. (2016). A correlation between P-wave velocity and Schmidt hardness with mechanical properties of travertine building stones. Arabian Journal of Geosciences, 9, 568.
[34]. Harandizadeh, H., Armaghani, D.J., & Mohamad, E.T.  (2020). Development of fuzzy-GMDH model optimized by GSA to predict rock tensile strength based on experimental datasets. Neural Computing and Applications, 32, 14047–14067.
[35]. Li, Y., Hishamuddin, F.N.S., Mohammed, A.S., Armaghani, D.J., Ulrikh, D.V., Dehghanbanadaki, A., & Azizi, A. (2021). The effects of rock index tests on prediction of tensile strength of granitic samples: A neuro-fuzzy intelligent system. Sustainability, 13, 10541.
[36]. Parsajoo, M., Armaghani, D.J., Mohammed, A.S., Khari, M., & Jahandari, S. (2021). Tensile strength prediction of rock material using non-destructive tests: A comparative intelligent study. Transportation Geotechnics, 31, 100652.
[37]. Baykasoğlu, A., Güllü, H., Çanakçı, H., & Özbakır, L. (2008). Prediction of compressive and tensile strength of limestone via genetic programming. Expert Systems with Applications, 35, 111–123.
[38]. Ghobadi, M.H., Mousavi, S., Heidari, M., & Rafiei, B. (2015). The prediction of the tensile strength of sandstones from their petrographical properties using regression analysis and artificial neural network. Geopersia, 5, 177–187.
[39]. Hassan, M.Y., & Arman, H. (2021). Comparison of six machine-learning methods for predicting the tensile strength (Brazilian) of evaporitic rocks. Applied Sciences, 11, 5207.
[40]. Fang, Z., Cheng, J., Xu, C., Xu, X., Qajar, J., & Rastegarnia, A. (2024). Comparison of machine learning and statistical approaches to estimate rock tensile strength. Case Studies in Construction Materials, 20, e02890.
[41]. Çanakci, H. Baykasoglu, A. & Güllü, H. (2009). Prediction of compressive and tensile strength of Gaziantep basalts via neural networks and gene expression programming. Neural Computing and Applications, 18, 1031–1041.
[42]. Ceryan, N., Okkan, U., Samul, P., & Ceryan, S. (2012). Modeling of tensile strength of rocks based on support vector machines approaches. International Journal for Numerical and Analytical Methods in Geomechanics, 37, 2655–2670.
[43]. Huang, L., Asteris, P.G., Koopialipoor, M., Armaghani, D.J., & Tahir, M.M. (2019). Invasive weed optimization technique-based ANN to the prediction of rock tensile strength. Applied Sciences, 9, 5372.
[44]. Mahdiyar, A., Armaghani, D.J., Marto, A., Nilashi, M., & Ismail, S. (2019). Rock tensile strength prediction using empirical and soft computing approaches. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 78, 4519–4531.
[45]. Schmidt, R.L. (1972). Drillability studies—percussive drilling in the field. U.S. Dept. of the interior, Bureau of Mines RI-7684, p 31.
[46]. Bilgin, N. (1977). Investigation into mechanical cutting characteristics of some medium and high-strength rocks. Ph.D. Thesis, Univ. Newcastle upon Tyne, U.K.
[47]. Clark, G.B. (1979), Principles of rock drilling. Colorado School of Mines Quart, Colorado, 74, 91–93.
[48]. Howarth, D.F. (1987). The effect of pre-existing microcavities on mechanical rock performance in sedimentary and crystalline rocks. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences & Geomechanics Abstracts, 24, 223–233.
[49]. Bilgin, N., & Shahriar, K. (1988). The development of a rock cutting rig for rapid excavation systems and its application to Amasra Coalfield Proc. Coal Congr., 6th, (Zonguldak, Turkey, May 23-27) Chamber of Min. Eng. of Turkey, Zonguldak, pp. 13–28 (in Turkish).
[50]. Bilgin, N., Eskikaya, S., & Dincer, T. (1993). The performance analysis of large diameter blast hole rotary drills in Turkish Coal Enterprises. In: Almgren T, Kumar T, Vagenas T (eds), The 2nd International symposium on mine mechanics automation, Lulea, pp 129–135.
[51]. Gupta, A., & Rao, K.S. (1998). Index properties of weathered rocks: inter-relationships and applicability. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 57, 161–172.
[52]. Bearman, R.A. (1999). The use of the point load test for the rapid estimation of Mode I fracture toughness. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 36, 257–263.
[53]. Kahraman, S. (1999). Rotary and percussive drilling prediction using regression analysis. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 36, 981–989.
[54]. Tuğrul, A., & Zarif, I.H. (1999). Correlation of mineralogical and textural characteristics with engineering properties of selected granitic rocks from Turkey. Engineering Geology, 51, 303–317.
[55]. Ersoy, A., Buyuksagic, S., & Atici, U. (2005). Wear characteristics of circular diamond saws in the cutting of different hard abrasive rocks. Wear, 258(9), 1422–1436.
[56]. Ersoy, A., & Atici, U. (2007). Correlation of P and S-Waves with cutting specific energy and dominant properties of volcanic and carbonate rocks. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 40, 491–504.
[57]. Dwivedi, R.D., Goel, R.K., Prasad, V.V.R., & Sinha, A. (2008). Thermo-mechanical properties of Indian and other granites. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 45, 303–315.
[58]. Atici, U., & Ersoy, A. (2009). Correlation of specific energy of cutting saws and drilling bits with rock brittleness and destruction energy. Journal of Materials Processing Technology, 209, 2602–2612.
[59]. Erguler, Z.A., & Ulusay, R. (2009). Water-induced variations in mechanical properties of clay-bearing rocks. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 46(2), 355–370.
[60]. Yagiz, S. (2009). Assessment of brittleness using rock strength and density with punch penetration test. Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology, 24, 66–74.
[61]. Yilmaz, N.G., Karaca, Z., Goktan, R.M., & Akal, C. (2009). Relative brittleness characterization of some selected granitic building stones: Influence of mineral grain size. Construction and Building Materials, 23, 370–375.
[62]. Karaca, Z., Deliormanli, A.H., Elci, H., & Pamukcu, C. (2010). Effect of freeze–thaw process on the abrasion loss value of stones. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 47, 1207–1211.
[63]. Fener, M. (2011). The effect of rock sample dimension on the P-wave velocity. Journal of Nondestructive Evaluation, 30, 99–105.
[64]. Yarali, O., & Kahraman, S. (2011). The drillability assessment of rocks using the different brittleness values. Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology, 26, 406–414.
[65]. Ghobadi, M.H., & Rasouli Farah, M.R. (2012). Brittleness determination of granites by Schmidt rebound hammer hardness to evaluate drillability. New Findings in Applied Geology, 6(11), 16–28.
[66]. Kahraman, S.A.İ.R., Fener, M., & Kozman, E. (2012). Predicting the compressive and tensile strength of rocks from indentation hardness index. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, 112(5), 331–339.
[67]. Khanlari, G.R., Heidari, M., & Momeni, A.A. (2012). Assessment of weathering processes effect on engineering properties of Alvand granitic rocks (west of Iran), based on weathering indices. Environmental Earth Sciences, 67, 713–725.
[68]. Yavuz, A.B. (2012). Durability assessment of the Alaçatı tuff (Izmir) in western Turkey. Environmental Earth Sciences, 67, 1909–1925.
[69]. Basu, A., Mishra, D.A., & Roychowdhury, K. (2013). Rock failure modes under uniaxial compression, Brazilian, and point load tests. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 72, 457–475.
[70]. Heidari, M., Momeni, A.A., & Naseri, F. (2013). New weathering classifications for granitic rocks based on geomechanical parameters. Engineering Geology, 166, 65–73.
[71]. Karakuş, A., & Akatay, M. (2013). Determination of basic physical and mechanical properties of basaltic rocks from P-wave velocity. Nondestructive Testing and Evaluation, 28, 342–353.
[72]. Khandelwal, M. (2013). Correlating P-wave velocity with the physico-mechanical properties of different rocks. Pure and Applied Geophysics, 170, 507–514.
[73]. Mikaeil, R., Ataei, M., & Yousefi, R. (2013). Correlation of production rate of ornamental stone with rock brittleness indexes. Arabian Journal of Geosciences, 6, 115–121.
[74]. Heidari, M., Khanlari, G.R., Torabi-Kaveh, M., Kargarian, S., & Saneie, S. (2014). Effect of porosity on rock brittleness. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 47, 785–790.
[75]. Fener, M., & İnce, İ. (2015). Effects of the freeze–thaw (F–T) cycle on the andesitic rocks (Sille-Konya/Turkey) used in construction building. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 109, 96–106.
[76]. Majeed, Y., Shahzad, M., Ali, Z., Iqbal, M.M., & Saqib, S. (2015). Estimation of uniaxial compressive strength and Brazilian tensile strength from block punch index. Journal of the Pakistan Institute of Chemical Engineers, 43, 5–13.
[77]. Ribeiro, P., Oliveira, M., & Nelson, P. (2016). Correlation between uniaxial compressive strength and Brazilian tensile strength using different rock types. XVIII Brazilian Conference on Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering. Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
[78]. Sajid, M., & Arif, M. (2015). Reliance of physico-mechanical properties on petrographic characteristics: consequences from the study of Utla granites, north-west Pakistan. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 74, 1321–1330.
[79]. Ghobadi, M.H., Taleb Beydokhti, A.R., Nikudel, M.R., Asiabanha, A., & Karakus, M. (2016). The effect of freeze–thaw process on the physical and mechanical properties of tuff. Environmental Earth Sciences, 75, 846.
[80]. İnce, İ., & Fener, M. (2016). A prediction model for uniaxial compressive strength of deteriorated pyroclastic rocks due to freeze–thaw cycle. Journal of African Earth Sciences, 120, 134–140.
[81]. Momeni, A., Abdilor, Y., Khanlari, G.R., Heidari, M., & Sepahi, A.A. (2016). The effect of freeze–thaw cycles on physical and mechanical properties of granitoid hard rocks. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 75, 1649–1656.
[82]. Ronmar, C. (2016). Correlation of rock strength between uniaxial compressive, Brazilian and point load tests: a laboratory study. Honours Thesis, School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering, The University of Queensland.
[83]. Akinbinu, V.A. (2017). Relationship of brittleness and fragmentation in brittle compression. Engineering Geology, 221, 82–90.
[84]. Almasi, S.N., Bagherpour, R., Mikaeil, R., & Ozcelik, Y. (2017). Analysis of bead wear in diamond wire sawing considering the rock properties and production rate. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 76, 1593–1607.
[85]. Bozdağ, A., & İnce, İ. (2018). Predicting strength parameters of igneous rocks from slake durability index. International Journal of Engineering Science, 18, 1102–1109.
[86]. Jaques, D.S., Marques, E.A.G., Marcellino, L.C., Leao, M.F., Ferreira, E.P.S., & dos Santos Lemos, C.C. (2020) Changes in the physical, mineralogical and geomechanical properties of a granitic rock from weathering zones in a tropical climate. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 53, 5345–5370.
[87]. Teymen, A., & Mengüç, E.C. (2020). Comparative evaluation of different statistical tools for the prediction of uniaxial compressive strength of rocks. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 30, 785–797.
[88]. Xue, Y., Kong, F., Li, S., Zhang, L., Zhou, B., Li, G., & Gong, H. (2020). Using indirect testing methods to quickly acquire the rock strength and rock mass classification in tunnel engineering. International Journal of Geomechanics, 20(5), 05020001.
[89]. Zalooli, A., Khamehchiyan, M., Nikudel, M.R., Freire-Lista, D.M., Fort, R., & Ghasemi, Sh. (2020). Artificial microcracking of granites subjected to salt crystallization aging test. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 79:5499–5515.
[90]. Akbay, D., & Altindag, R. (2021). Investigation of the availability of a new point load test device in characterization of rocks. International Advanced Researches and Engineering Journal, 05, 387–397.
[91]. Hamzaban, M.T., Buyuksagis, I.S., Milad Manafi, M., & Touranchehzadeh, A. (2021). The effect of saturation on the physical and mechanical behavior of some rock samples. Journal of Civil Engineering Beyond Limits, 3, 23–31.
[92]. Jamshidi, A. (2021). Predicting the strength of granitic stones after freeze–thaw cycles: considering the petrographic characteristics and a new approach using petro-mechanical parameter. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 54, 2829–2841.
[93]. Fereidooni, D. (2022). Importance of the mineralogical and textural characteristics in the mechanical properties of rocks. Arabian Journal of Geosciences, 15, 637.
[94]. Pötzl, C., Siegesmund, S., López-Doncel, R., & Dohrmann, R. (2022). Key parameters of volcanic tuffs used as building stone: a statistical approach. Environmental Earth Sciences, 81, 10.
[95]. Ajalloeian, R., Jamshidi, A., & Khorasani, R. (2024). Evaluating the effects of mineral grain size and mineralogical composition on the correlated equations between strength and Schmidt hardness of granitic rocks. Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, 42, 675–685.
[96]. Diamantis, K., Khajevand, R., & Fereidooni, D. (2024). Assessing the geotechnical properties of peridotite rocks in dry and saturated conditions. Innovative Infrastructure Solutions, 9, 130.
[97]. Kahraman, S., Ince, I., Rostami, M., & Dibavar, B. (2024). Predicting the strength, density, and porosity of rocks from roll crusher tests. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, 124(2), 53−57.
[98]. Phillips, H.R. (1975). The mechanical cutting characteristics and properties of selected rock formations. Rep. Transport and Road Research Laboratory, Dep. Of the Environment, Univ. Newcastle upon Tyne, U.K. (unpublished).
[99]. Bilgin, N. (1982). The cuttability of evaporites. Bulletin of the International Association of Engineering Geology, 25, 85–89.
[100]. Singh, S.P. (1986). Brittleness and the mechanical winning of coal. International Journal of Mining Science and Technology, 3, 173–180.
[101]. Harris, D.M. (2002). Geotechnical properties of coal and mine pillar design in the Greymouth and Reefton coalfields, West Coast, South Island. M.Sc. Thesis in Engineering Geology, University of Canterbury, Island.
[102]. Kahraman, S., Fener, M., & Gunaydin, O. (2004). Predicting the sawability of carbonate rocks using multiple curvilinear regression analysis. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 41, 1123–1131.
[103]. Goktan, R.M., & Yilmaz, N.G (2005). A new methodology for the analysis of the relationship between rock brittleness index and drag pick cutting efficiency. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, 105, 727–734.
[104]. Hecht, C., Bönsch, C., & Bauch, E. (2005). Relations of rock structure and composition to petrophysical and geomechanical rock properties: examples from Permocarboniferous Red-Beds. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 38, 197–216.
[105]. Vásárhelyi, B. (2005), Statistical analysis of the influence of water content on the strength of the Miocene limestone. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 38, 69–76.
[106]. Kayabali, K., Beyaz, T., Kolay, E. (2006). The effect of the pH of the testing liquid on the slake durability of gypsum. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 65, 65–71.
[107]. Tiryaki, B. (2006). Evaluation of the indirect measures of rock brittleness and fracture toughness in rock cutting. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, 106, 407–424.
[108]. Hoseini, R. (2007). Assessment of engineering geological properties of bioclastic rocks (Loamshell) to use in rocky marine structures and improvement methods. M.Sc. Thesis in Engineering Geology, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran.
[109]. Ahmadi, M.J. (2008.) Investigation of engineering properties of some sandstone's outcrops of Upper Red Formation. M.Sc. Thesis in Engineering Geology, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran.
[110]. Yavuz, H., Ugur, I., & Demirdag, S. (2008). Abrasion resistance of carbonate rocks used in dimension stone industry and correlations between abrasion and rock properties. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 45, 260–267.
[111]. Kumar, B.R., Vardhan, H., & Govindaraj, M. (2011). Prediction of uniaxial compressive strength, tensile strength and porosity of sedimentary rocks using sound level produced during rotary drilling. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 44, 613–620.
[112]. Tahir, M., Mohammad, N., & Din, F. (2011). Strength parameters and their inter-relationship for limestone of Cherat and Kohat areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Journal of Himalayan Earth Sciences, 44(2), 45–51.
[113]. Rajabzadeh, M.A., Moosavinasab, Z., & Rakhshandehroo, G. (2012). Effects of rock classes and porosity on the relation between uniaxial compressive strength and some rock properties for carbonate rocks. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 45, 113–122.
[114]. Tumac, D. (2015). Predicting the performance of large diameter circular saws based on Schmidt hammer and other properties for some Turkish carbonate rocks. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 75, 159–168.
[115]. Ghobadi, M., & Naseri, F. (2016). Rock brittleness prediction using geomechanical properties of Hamekasi limestone: Regression and artificial neural networks analysis. Geopersia, 6(1), 19–33.
[116]. Jamshidi, A., Nikudel, M.R., Khamehchiyan, M., Zarei Sahamieh, R., & Abdi, Y. (2016). A correlation between P-wave velocity and Schmidt hardness with mechanical properties of travertine building stones. Arabian Journal of Geosciences, 9, 568.
[117]. Masoumi, H., Horne, J., & Timms, W. (2017). Establishing empirical relationships for the effects of water content on the mechanical behavior of Gosford Sandstone. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 50, 2235–2242.
 [118]. Naseri, F., & Khanlari, G. (2017). The prediction of compressive strength of travertines with special reference to laminae-orientation using index tests. Geopersia, 7(2), 279–299.
[119]. Fereidooni, D., & Khajevand, R. (2018). Correlations between slake-durability index and engineering properties of some travertine samples under wetting–drying cycles. Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, 36, 1071–1089.
[120]. Jamshidi, A., Yazarloo, R., & Gheiji, S. (2018). Comparative evaluation of Schmidt hammer test procedures for prediction of rocks strength. International Journal of Mining and Geo-Engineering, 52(2), 199–206.
[121]. Ashtari, M., Mousavi, S.E., Cheshomi, A., & Khamechian, M. (2019). Evaluation of the single compressive strength test in estimating uniaxial compressive and Brazilian tensile strengths and elastic modulus of marlstone. Engineering Geology, 248, 256–266.
[122]. Torabi-Kaveh, M., Heidari, M., Mohseni, H., & Menendez, M. (2019). Role of petrography in durability of limestone used in construction of Persepolis complex subjected to artificial accelerated ageing tests. Environmental Earth Sciences, 78, 297.
[123]. Zalooli, A., Khamehchiyan, M., & Nikudel, M.R. (2019). Durability assessment of Gerdoi and red travertines from Azarshahr, East Azerbaijan province, Iran. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 78, 1683–1695.
[124]. Jamshidi, A., Abdi, Y., & Sarikhani, R. (2020). Prediction of brittleness indices of sandstones using a novel physico-mechanical parameter. Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, 38, 4651–4659.
[125]. Lakirouhani, A., Asemi, F., Zohdi, A., Medzvieckas, J., & Kliukas, R. (2020). Physical parameters, tensile and compressive strength of dolomite rock samples: influence of grain size. Journal of Civil Engineering and Management, 26(8), 789–799.
[126]. Arman, H. (2021). Correlation of uniaxial compressive strength with indirect tensile strength (Brazilian) and 2nd cycle of slake durability index for evaporitic rocks. Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, 39, 1583–1590.
[127]. Jamshidi, A., Torabi-Kaveh, M., & Nikudel, M.R. (2021). Effect of anisotropy on the strength and brittleness indices of laminated sandstone. Iranian Journal of Science and Technology, Transactions of Science, 45, 927–936.
[128]. Kolapo, P., & Munemo, P. (2021). Investigating the correlations between point load strength index, uniaxial compressive strength and Brazilian tensile strength of sandstones. A case study of QwaQwa sandstone deposit. International Journal of Mining and Mineral Engineering, 12, 67–83.
[129]. Tripathi, A., Gupta, N., Singh, A.K., Mohanty, S.P., Rai, N., & Pain, A. (2021). Effects of elevated temperatures on the microstructural, physico-mechanical and elastic properties of Barakar Sandstone: a study from one of the World’s Largest Underground Coalmine Fire Region, Jharia, India. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 54, 1293–1314.
[130]. Sadeghi, E., Nikudel, M.R., Khamehchiyan, M., & Kavussi, A. (2022). Estimation of unconfined compressive strength (UCS) of carbonate rocks by index mechanical tests and specimen size properties: Central Alborz Zone of Iran. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 55, 125–145.
[131]. Cun, Z., Jianqi, M., Shiyong, L., Jiale, L., Jinbao, L., & Jianhang, C. (2023). Strength weakening characteristics and microscopic mechanism of coal samples with different water contents based on penetration strength. International Journal of Coal Science and Technology, 51, 40−49.
[132]. Fadhil, A., Al-Adly, A., & Fattah, M. (2023). Estimation of uniaxial compressive and indirect tensile strengths of intact rock from Schmidt hammer rebound number. Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials, 32, 20220255.
[133]. Khajevand, R. (2023). Determining dry and saturated strength of rocks by using the Schmidt hammer. Iranian Journal of Science, 47, 779–790.
[134]. Khajevand, R. (2023). Prediction of the uniaxial compressive strength of rocks by soft computing approaches. Geotechnical and Geological Engineering, 41, 3549–3574.
[135]. Pathan, S.M., Memon, M.B., Shaikh, Z.A., & Chalgri, S.R. (2023). Correlation of uniaxial compressive strength with Brazilian tensile strength and properties for soft sedimentary rocks. Journal of Mountain Area Research, 8, 60–71.
[136]. Qiang, G., Ma, X., & Liu, X. (2023). A new method for determining strength parameters of rock using digital drilling technology. Frontiers in Earth Science, 11, 1256150.
[137]. Yavuz, A.B., Turk, N., & Koca, M.Y. (2005). Material properties of the Menderes massif marbles from SW Turkey. Engineering Geology, 82, 91–106.
[138]. Yavuz, A.B., & Topal, T. (2007). Thermal and salt crystallization effects on marble deterioration: Examples from Western Anatolia, Turkey. Engineering Geology, 90, 30–40.
[139]. Fereidooni, D. (2016). Determination of the geotechnical characteristics of hornfelsic rocks with a particular emphasis on the correlation between physical and mechanical properties. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 49, 2595–2608.
[140]. Singh, S., & Murthy, P.S.K. (2016), Gneisses-strengths and mineralogical compositions. International Journal of Innovative Science Engineering and Technology, 5, 3658–3663.
[141]. Tumac, D. (2016). Artificial neural network application to predict the sawability performance of large diameter circular saws. Measurement, 80,12–20.
[142]. Singh, T., Jain, A., & Rao, K.S. (2017). Physico-mechanical behaviour of metamorphic rocks in Rohtang Tunnel, Himachal Pradesh, India. Procedia Engineering, 191, 419–425.
[143]. Jafari, A., Lashkaripour, G.R., Hafezi Moghadas, N., & Moarefvand, P. (2021). Investigation of the effect of mineralogy in strength of schist rocks in Mouteh gold mine. Journal of Engineering Geology, 15(3), 415−436.
[144]. Zalooli, A., Khamehchiyan, M., Nikudel, M.R., Fort, R., Ghasemi, Sh., & Freire‑Lista, D.M. (2024). The influence of petrographic properties on mechanical characteristics and the durability of the greenschist subjected to simulated weathering tests. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 57, 3393–3408.
[145]. Siegesmund, S., & Durrast, H. (2011). Physical and mechanical properties of rocks. In: Siegesmund S, Snethlage R (eds) Stone in architecture, 4th edn. Springer, Berlin.
[146]. Abdi, Y., Yusefi-Yegane, B., & Jamshidi, A. (2021). Estimation of mechanical properties of sandstones from petrographic characteristics using artificial neural networks (ANNs). Bulletin of the Geological Society of Malaysia, 71, 13.
[147]. Debecker, B., & Vervoort, A. (2009). Experimental observation of fracture patterns in layered slate. International Journal of Fracture, 159, 51–62.
[148]. Cho, J.W., Kim, H., Jeon, S., & Min, K.B. (2012). Deformation and strength anisotropy of Asan gneiss, Boryeong shale, and Yeoncheon schist. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 50, 158–169.
[149]. Ma, T., Peng, N., Zhu, Z., Zhang, Q., Yang, C., & Zhao, J. (2018). Brazilian tensile strength of anisotropic rocks: Review and new Insights. Energies, 11, 304.
[150]. Iyare, U.C., Blake, O.O., & Ramsook, R. (2021). Estimating the uniaxial compressive strength of argillites using Brazilian tensile strength, ultrasonic wave velocities, and elastic properties. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 54, 2067–2078.
[151]. Azimian, A., & Ajalloeian, R. (2015). Empirical correlation of physical and mechanical properties of marly rocks with P wave velocity. Arabian Journal of Geosciences, 8, 2069–2079.
[152]. Akbay, D. (2023). Investigating the accuracy of specimen shape for point load index test in predicting the uniaxial compressive strength for rocks using regression analysis and machine learning. Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration, 40, 2107–2115.
[153]. Fener, M., Kahraman, S., Bilgil, A., & Gunaydin, O. (2005). A comparative evaluation of indirect methods to estimate the compressive strength of rocks. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 38, 329–343.
[154]. Chatterjee, R., & Mukhopadhyay, M. (2002). Petrophysical and geomechanical properties of rocks from the oilfields of the Krishna-Godavari and Cauvery Basins, India. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 61(2), 169–178.
[155]. Gokceoglu, C., & Zorlu, K. (2004). A fuzzy model to predict the uniaxial compressive strength and the modulus of elasticity of a problematic rock. Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence, 17, 61–72.
[156]. Farah, R. (2011). Correlations between index properties and unconfined compressive strength of weathered Ocala Limestone. Master’s Thesis, UNF College of Computing, Engineering and Construction, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
[157]. Nazir, R., Momeni, E., & Jahed Armaghani, D. (2013). Correlation between unconfined compressive strength and indirect tensile strength of limestone rock samples. Electronic Journal of Geotechnical Engineering, 18, 1737–1746.
[158]. Yesiloglu-Gultekin, N., Gokceoglu, C., & Sezer, E.A. (2013). Prediction of uniaxial compressive strength of granitic rocks by various nonlinear tools and comparison of their performances. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 62, 13–122.
[159]. Kallu, R., & Roghanchi, P. (2015). Correlations between direct and indirect strength test methods. International Journal of Mining Science and Technology, 25, 355–360.
[160]. Karaman, K., Cihangir, F., Ercikdi, B., Kesimal, A., & Demirel, S. (2015). Utilization of the Brazilian test for estimating the uniaxial compressive strength and shear strength parameters. Journal of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, 115, 185–192.
[161]. Mohamad, E.T., Armaghani, D.J., Momeni, E., & Alavi Nezhad Khalil Abad, S.V. (2015). Prediction of the unconfined compressive strength of soft rocks: a PSO-based ANN approach. Bulletin of Engineering Geology and the Environment, 74(3), 745–757.
[162]. Aliyu, M.M., Shang, J., Murphy, W., Lawrence, J.A., Collier, R., Kong, F., & Zhao, Z. (2019). Assessing the uniaxial compressive strength of extremely hard cryptocrystalline flint. International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 113, 310–321.
[163]. Stoodley, K.D.C., Lewis, T., & Stainton, C.L.S. (1980). Applied statistical techniques. England: Ellis.
[164]. Bieniawski, Z.T. (1989). Engineering rock mass classifications. New York, Wiley.
[165]. Din, F., & Rafiq, M. (1997). Correlation between compressive strength and tensile strength/ index strength of some rocks of north- west Frontier Province (Limestone and Granite). Geological Bulletin, 30, 183–190.
[166]. Jacobsson, L. (2004). Site investigation reports. Swedish nuclear fuel and waste management Co. Technical Reports P-04- 170, P-04-172, P-04-173, P-04-174, P-04-223, P-04-225, and P-04-226. http://www.skb.se.
[167]. Graue, R., Siegesmund, S., & Middendorf, B. (2011). Quality assessment of replacement stones for the Cologne Cathedral: mineralogical and petrophysical requirements. Environmental Earth Sciences, 63, 1799–1822.
[168]. Ebdali, M., Khorasani, E., & Salehin, S. (2020). A comparative study of various hybrid neural networks and regression analysis to predict unconfined compressive strength of travertine. Innovative Infrastructure Solutions, 5, 93.
[169]. Aloğlu Sarı, S., & Yavuz, A.B. (2023). Predicting the abrasion resistance value before and after deterioration by freeze–thaw of limestones based on the initial material properties: a case study from Manisa area western Türkiye. Environmental Earth Sciences, 82, 353.
[170]. Emami Meybodi, E., & Taajobian, F. (2023). Analysis of gain size effect on mechanical properties of sandstone with experimental and numerical methods. Journal of Mining and Environment, 14(2), 713–730.
[171]. Jamshidi, A., & Sousa, L. (2024). Accuracy of point load index and Brazilian tensile strength in predicting the uniaxial compressive strength of the rocks: A comparative study. Materials, 17, 5081.
[172]. Kong, F.M., Han, M., Zhao, Y.T., Liu, H., Luan, P., Zhuo, B., & Shi, G. (2025). Influence of rock heterogeneity on the correlation between uniaxial compressive strength and Brazilian tensile strength. Scientific Reports, 15, 437.
[173]. Cai, M. (2010). Practical estimates of tensile strength and the Hoek-Brown strength parameter mi of brittle rocks. Rock Mechanics and Rock Engineering, 43, 167–184.
[174]. Khanlari, G.R., Heidari, M., Sepahi-Gero, A.A., & Fereidooni, D. (2014). Determination of geotechnical properties of anisotropic rocks using some index tests. Geotechnical Testing Journal, 37 (2), 1–13.