Abstract:
The current research work is focused on the physical, mechanical and
petrographic investigation of igneous and metamorphic rocks exposed in Shewa
Shahbaz Ghari Complex, North Pakistan. The bulk samples were collected from the
study area and geological features were noted including grain size, weathered and fresh
surfaces at exposed outcrops. The collected samples include Metamorphosed Gabbro
(MB), Gabbro (G), Metamorphosed Rhyolite (MR), Granodiorites (GD) and Dolerite
(D). For petrographic studies thin sections were prepared by cutting and polishing of
slabs recovered from each bulk sample. Four cubes were prepared from the collected
bulk samples of each variety of rock to determine its physical properties (specific
gravity, water absorption and porosity) and mechanical strength (unconfined
compressive strength and Los Angeles abrasion value). Petrographic studies indicate
that the major minerals are pyroxene, quartz and amphibole. Further investigations
indicate that the presence of minerals i.e., pyroxene, quartz and amphibole, improves
the mechanical strength of rock. The UCS values of all the collected samples fall in the
category of “High” strength rock according to ISRM, 1981. The results of physical and
mechanical properties of Shewa Shahbaz Ghari Complex satisfies the standard
requirements and therefore it can be used as a construction material and as an aggregate
material in road construction.
