The thermal stability and morphological study of weathered and intact limestone

Limestone, a multifunctional sedimentary rock, operates as an important component in several scientific and economic sectors. Its versatility and diverse application underline the significance of completely knowing its morphology and thermal stability to enhance consumption and ensure optimal preservation. The aims of this paper are to understand how variations in microstructural characteristics impact thermal conductivity and heat transmission parameters, thereby uncovering fundamental mechanisms governing limestone’s response to heat stress. Thus, the objectives of study are to investigate and analyze intact and weathered limestone rocks in terms of thermal stability (i.e.: temperature effects on limestone›s stability and weight) and morphology (i.e.: differences in surface morphology, porosity distribution, and microstructural features) using advanced techniques like Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), respectively. From the thermal stability analysis, it revealed that weathered limestone showed the maximum peak weight loss of 4.54% per minute at 778.31°C, whereas intact limestone showed the highest weight decrease rate of 3.2% per minute at 734.45°C. It can be summarised that weathered limestone demonstrates a more intricate and rapid thermal deterioration profile in comparison to intact limestone. The morphology analysist revealed the different particle size distributions; weathered limestone had long, deep fractures with a distribution from 1.89μm to 31.0μm, while intact limestone showed a range from 1.39μm to 14.0μm. The presence of uneven shapes and a range of sizes of particles is indicative of the weathering and erosion processes that cause the limestone structure to break apart and disintegrate. The identified patterns and trends for each different limestone conditions explained the complex relationship between morphology and thermal stability that improve decision-making processes in multiple fields. In conclusion, it is important knowing limestone’s morphology and thermal behavior to optimize consumption and assure good preservation. The findings have practical ramifications that go beyond theoretical comprehension, providing useful information for preservation and implementation in a variety of sectors and domains.