Advances in Computed Tomography for Geomaterials: GeoX 2010

Contributions of X-ray CT to the Characterization of Natural Building Stones and their Disintegration

J. Dewanckele¹,² — D. Van Loo² — J. Vlassenbroeck² — M. N. Boone² — V. Cnudde¹,² — M. A. Boone¹ — T. De Kock¹ — L. Van Hoorebeke² — P. Jacobs^1,2

¹ Department of Geology and Soil Science, Ghent UniversityKrijgslaan 281/S8, B-9000, Ghent, [e-mail]

 

² Department of Subatomic and Radiation PhysicsCenter for X-ray Tomography, Ghent UniversityProeftuinstraat 86, B-9000 Ghent, [e-mail]

ABSTRACT. This paper highlights the use of the high resolution scanner at the Center for X-ray Tomography in Ghent, Belgium (UGCT), for the 3D quantitative evaluation of the disintegration of some French natural building stones. Rocks deteriorate when they are exposed to extreme weathering factors such as a combination of water and freeze-thaw cycles or high pressure. The results of those processes can be very diverse: from element migration to crust formation to the origination of micro-cracks. Thanks to its non-destructive character, high resolution computed tomography (CT) turned out to be an excellent monitoring tool as it contributes to the characterization of the internal structure of the natural building stone. X-ray CT also provides a better insight into the micro-structural durability properties of the building stone.

 

KEYWORDS: characterization, ...