Engineering geological properties of Leitha Limestone from historical quarries in Burgenland and Styria, Austria

The rock quality and durability were assessed through laboratory testing of physical and mechanical properties, including measurements of real and apparent density, porosity, water absorption capacity, uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) for both dry and water-saturated rock samples and for samples following repeated freeze-thaw cycles, the coefficient of softening and the coefficient of freezing. All investigated rock samples had different porosities and absorption capacities. They also differed in their UCS values, which were very variable but mostly belonged to the weak rock category (UCS below 50 MPa). Five of the tested rock samples had higher UCS values and were consequently ranked in the firm rock category. The microfacies investigation proved to be a valuable tool for interpreting the measured engineering geological properties, in particular the porosity and rock strength.