A thorough comparison of newly discovered whetstone from the Dazkırı (Afyonkarahisar – Türkiye) with a heritage whetstone from the Cretan (Greece) with regards to mineralogical, petrographic and physico-mechanical characteristics

The present study is an analytical investigation into the geomaterial and engineering geological characteristics of Cretan (Greece) and Dazkiri (Afyonkarahisar, Türkiye) whetstones. The Cretan whetstone, a prominent example of a heritage natural whetstone, is a distinctive type of carbonate-cemented siltstone that is extracted from the island of Crete in Greece. Conversely, a new specimen was recently identified by the authors and designated as "the Dazkırı whetstone," which exhibits comparable lithology and is extracted in the Dazkırı district of Afyonkarahisar (Türkiye). In order to ascertain the geomaterial characteristics of the studied whetstones, a number of analytical and test techniques were utilized. Furthermore, Cerchar Abrasivity Index (CAI) measurements were conducted and acquired. The CAI results were then compared through the use of regression equations related to quartz content, cementation degree, and the Böhme surface abrasion resistance. The oil absorption test was finally conducted to ascertain the grinding-honing performances and impregnation capacity with lubricant of the examined whetstones. Consequently, a comparative analysis of the subject whetstones was conducted, resulting in the definition and classification of their characteristics. These characteristics included the relationship between grain size and grit size equivalent, as well as the type of lubricant, function, and uses. In summary, the Dazkırı whetstone exhibits superior geomaterial characteristics and grinding-honing performance when compared to the Cretan whetstone.