Geotechnical Investigation Of Sandstone From Murree Formation Shahdara Area Islamabad, Pakistan

Abstract

The Murree Formation is of Miocene age and is well exposed in Shahdhara village near Islamabad. The main aim was to carry out the geotechnical investigation of Murree Formation sandstone. Ten bulk samples were collected for detailed analysis. An extensive thin-section study is carried out to determine various mineralogical properties followed by mechanical tests such as the Uniaxial Compressive Test. Specific gravity and water absorption tests were also employed on the sandstone samples to further access their mechanical characteristics. The mechanical and mineralogical properties were then correlated for the determination of strength qualities. Thorough fracture analysis is carried out of Murree Formation determining the extent and relation of fractures with each other. After analyzing physical properties, mechanical properties, and other essential properties of rock strength, the result obtained showed that the sandstone rocks are moderately strong for use in construction.