Engineering grading of weathered granite

Abstract

A review is presented of the processes involved in the weathering of granites and gneisses together with the engineering implications and the available methods of describing and classifying the products for engineering purposes. A universal weathering-grade rock-mass classification system is developed and used as the basis for the compilation of an extensive review of published engineering properties of weathered granites and gneisses. The data are presented, with comments, for use in initial design and feasibility studies where projects are to be undertaken in areas of weathered granite and gneiss.