Linear thermal expansion of granitic rocks: influence of apparent porosity, grain size and quartz content

Abstract

Values for the linear thermal expansion coefficients (β) of some Brazilian granitic rocks commercially used as facings for building are presented. The coefficients were determined within a temperature range of 0 to 50 °C, with the temperature raised at a rate of 0.3 °C/min. The values obtained were related to the apparent porosity, grain size and quartz content of the rocks. It is concluded that while β increases with an increase in quartz content, it decreases with increases in apparent porosity and mineral grain size.