Engineering geological and petrological characterization of paleoweathered rock in the K1/J2 contact zone in the Ordos Basin, China

Various geological processes (mineral composition, structure, tectonics, weathering, etc.) affect the physical–mechanical properties of rock. Petrological and engineering characteristics paleoweathered rock (PWR) from K1/J2 contact zone are described in detail via field investigation experimental testing. This PWR exhibits mainly sandy grains mud structures, layered massive strata, calcareous argillaceous cements; fissures developed often filled with detrital materials; nine minerals seven oxides present, quartz is present each sample. Long-term weathering results a consistent bulk density high total porosity due to transformation primary into secondary clay minerals, forming that undergoes argillization water. The axial point load strength (PLS) largest among tested PLSs, followed by diametral PLS, irregular PLS. uniaxial compressive (UCS) varies widely, but reliable. mineralogical, physical mechanical compared predict one parameter another study their mutual influence. PLS UCS negatively correlated elastic mineral group (EMG) content, alteration indexes, water positively brittle (BMG) density, real longitudinal wave velocity. (diametral) correlated. These provide theoretical basis for property prediction masses rapid estimation engineering.