Geo-technical properties of shahkot formation, Utch-khattak formation and shekhai formation In the vicinity of attock-cherat range, khyber Pakhtunkhw a, Pakistan (P-1009) (MFN 7031)

Abstract

Attock-Cherat Range consists of various formations. The purpose of our research was to carry out geo-technical investigation of Shahkot Formation, Utch- Khattak Formation and Shekhai Formation which composed primarily of limestone. Fifteen bulk samples were collected from these formations, five samples from each for detail analysis. A series of geo-chemical and physio-mechanical tests were carried out which involves making of thin section for petrographic study, X-Ray diffraction for determinations of minerals, Los Angeles abrasion test to determine aggregate's toughness and abrasion characteristics, soundness test to determine aggregate's resistance to disintegration by weathering in particular, specific gravity, bulk density and water absorption for determination of aggregate's strength. Mineralogical properties were also correlated with physio-mechanical properties to verify the results as we got from different physio-mechanical tests. The geo-chemical and physiomechanical results obtained for our targeted formations lies under standard values, hence we proposed that the aggregate material of Shahkot Formation, Utch-Khattak Formation and Shekhai Formation is suitable from engineering prospective and can be used for construction purpose. Comparatively, Shahkot Formation is better as compared to Utch-Khattak Formation and Shekhai Formation and the aggregate material of :-:hahkot Formation will be more effective.