Microstructural controls on physical and mechanical properties of dolomite rocks

The laboratory characterization of dolostones, cropping out in northeastern Sicily, was carried out with the aim of comparing rocks from two different sampling sites, close to each other but characterized by a different tectonic setting. The main physical and mechanical parameters were estimated and statistically analyzed for a mutual correlation, aimed at achieving the best knowledge on the behavior of such rocks under stress condition. Results show some differences between the two sampling locations, along with wide ranges of values. The presence of fractures within the rock is likely to be the main responsible of the great variability of estimated parameters. This is directly linked to the local complex geological history, which determined the poor characteristics of tested rocks, as well as the critical slope stability issues affecting the studied outcrops.