Geotechnical Properties of the Miocene Rocks of Central Algarve (Portugal)

The calcarenite rocks of the Miocene age form the bedrock of the southern part of the central Algarve. These are generally soft to very soft rocks, heavily affected by karst features, with these aspects being a considerable constraint for engineering projects. This work presents laboratory test results to assess unit weight, calcium carbonate content, water content, ultrasonic velocity, uniaxial compressive strength, and indirect tensile strength (Brazilian test). The strength test results indicate that there is a significant strength decay between dry and wet conditions. The results obtained and their influence on the expected behaviour of these rocks are discussed.