Abstract
This paper elucidates drying, saturating, and axial point load strength test methods of smectite-bearing rocks on the basis of analyses of the axial point load strength tests in a forced dry-state at temperatures of 105 ± 3 °C, 80 ± 3 °C, 60 ± 3 °C, and 40 ± 3 °C, respectively and a forced wet-state. The rocks are divided into three groups on the basis of their smectite content. It is to be desired that the axial point load strengths of smectite-bearing rocks are measured the specimens in the forced dry-state, dried in an electric oven at a temperature below 60 ± 3 °C for 4 days or more to achieve a constant mass, and the specimens in the forced wet-state, saturated with water for 15 days or more to achieve constant mass.
