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Standard Test Method for Determination of the Point Load Strength Index of Rock and Application to Rock Strength Classifications

Test Method Title

Standard Test Method for Determination of the Point Load Strength Index of Rock and Application to Rock Strength Classifications

Reference Number

ASTM D5731

Material

Rock

Test Property

Point Load Strength Index, Estimated Uniaxial Compressive Strength, Strength Anisotropy Index

Description of Test

Rock specimens are subjected to an increasingly concentrated load until failure occurs by splitting the specimen. The concentrated load is applied through coaxial, truncated conical platens. The load at failure is used to calculate the point load strength index. This index can be used to estimate the unconfined compressive strength.

Number of Test Specimens

at least 10 and up to 20 specimens (for irregular shapes)

Test Specimen Size

The specimen's external dimensions shall not be less then 30 mm and not more than 85 mm with the preferred dimension about 50 mm.

Keywords

axial, compressive strength, diametral, index test, point load, rock