Changes in Marble Quality After Sodium Sulphate Crystallization and Long-Lasting Freeze-Thaw Testing

Abstract

This paper summarizes research results about the quality and durability assessment of marbles from Slovakia quarries or outcrops, as well as marbles imported to Slovakia for building purposes through standard laboratory tests—the salt crystallization test and the frost resistance test. For this research of salt crystallization effects, nine various marbles were studied. The mineral composition, microstructure and changes in physical properties of marbles were characterized. One type of the examined marbles, the Thassos marble from Greece, was submitted to detailed research through the use of electron visualization methods and X-ray microtomography. It was discovered that the cyclic salt crystallization caused a decay of this dolomite marble predominantly along dominant crystal boundaries. X-ray microtomography allowed for visualization in 3D with possibility to obtain information about processes of cracks creation. It was possible to characterize parameters of newly created cracks as to their length, width and persistence. Long-lasting cyclic freeze-thaw tests confirmed the satisfactory quality of twenty Slovak marbles and their suitability to all-purpose applications.