Prediction of physico-mechanical properties of soft stones used in Algiers historical monuments (northern Algeria)

On the basis of historical monuments analyzes and geological investigations, this study showed that three kinds of soft rocks were used as building stones. These stones are bioclastic limestones, sandy limestones, and bioclastic sandstones. Sampling was carried out in natural outcrops to describe their physico-mechanical characteristics. The results were weak to moderate, and were mainly influenced by quartz percentage and rock diagenesis degree. Subsequently, predictive equations were suggested to estimate the physico-mechanical properties of the monument’s stones on the basis of non-destructive tests that are P-wave velocity and Schmidt hammer hardness. The predictive power of these equations was acceptable since the coefficient of determination R 2 varies in the interval (0.5 to 0.69). Finally, the obtained regressions were compared with the results of studies carried out in other parts of the world.