Evaluation of the Waras Serpentinite Rocks for Dimension Stone, Mawat Ophiolite Complex, Kurdistan Region, NE Iraq

The Mawat ophiolite complex (MOC) is a part of the Zagros Suture Zone, which extends about 2000 km from southeastern Turkey through northern Syria and Iraq to western southern Iran. serpentinite rocks are exposed at Waras area near Betwat village. Serpentinite this have been studied assess their suitability for use as dimension stone. Ten samples were collected in establish physical mechanical properties. Petrographic studies indicate that composed mostly serpentine minerals so results color measurement show multiple colors after polishing grayish green, greenish black, brownish olive brown dark yellowish green. Physical properties determined they low bulk density while water absorption all except sample (10) interior uses, well only (4, 6, 7, 8 9) exhibit suitable range exterior uses. compressive strength modulus rupture below requirement. According American Standard Testing Materials, ASTM C1526-02(2002) not