The effect of composition and textural properties of basaltic rocks on their mechaıical behaviour

Basalts are common in our country and basalts are employed for different purposes. Basalts which have high durability and resistance are preferred in engineering projects. Chemical, mineralogical, petrographic and physicomechanical properties of basalts should be well- known to increase their usage areas. Studies have shown that there is a relationship between the structure and physico-mechanical properties of stones. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of different chemical, mineralogical and petrographic properties on the physico-mechanical behavior of basaltic rocks. In general, basalt stones were collected from the Marmara Region and its surroundings. Then, chemical, mineralogical and petrographic properties of the samples were determined. In the next stage, physico-mechanical properties were determined as a result of laboratory studies. Basalts were divided into two groups according to their matrix characteristics, mineralogical composition and phenocrystalline dimensions according to test results. The first group of basalts showed high strength with high olivine content. The second group of basalts are including high rate phenocrystalline minerals, not including olivine but including high volcanic glass. These basalts give lower strength than the first group. © 2019, TMMOB - Jeoloji Muhendisleri Odasi. All rights reserved.