Geotechnical characterization of Geomaterial: case study aptian limestones of El Malabiod region Tebessa, NE Algeria

Prediction of sedimentary limestone's compressive strength (Rc) constitutes a new approach in the construction fields. However, there is evidence that current conventional testing programs could lead to erroneous results. Several approaches to estimate Rc have been proposed, yet no universally accepted method has been suggested. In this study, 18 limestone samples taken from the El Malabiod quarry in Tebessa (Algeria) were subjected to various laboratory tests. A statistical model capable of indirectly estimating Rc is provided. The model is based on a correlation of Rc with specific weight (SP), carbonate content (CaCO3), and compressive strength by Franklin (Rcf), and was checked by statistical method to examine multicollinearity. The proposed equation demonstrates a strong correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.98 compared to direct laboratory results. Excellent estimation capacity was obtained using this method compared to previous models developed. The equation proposed in this paper provides an alternative and rapid evaluation method for design engineers to estimate compressive strength in practice.