My research investigates the complex mechanisms of mechanical and physical weathering on diverse lithologies. Specifically, I examine how extreme environmental stressors—including high-temperature thermal stress, water saturation, freeze-thaw cycles, and salt crystallization—alter the structural integrity and engineering properties of building and heritage stones.
Core Research Projects:
1. Thermal Degradation of Limestone and Sandstone: This project examines the impact of elevated temperatures on physical and mechanical properties. I analyze how thermal stress triggers microcracking, leading to significant changes in density, porosity, strength, and ultrasonic wave velocity.
2. Impact of Water Saturation and 50–100 Freeze-Thaw Cycles on Tuff and Sandstone: This study focuses on the influence of moisture and freeze-thaw cycles. By simulating 50 and 100 cycles, I quantify the structural integrity loss and strength degradation of volcanic and sedimentary rocks over time.
3. Impact of Water Saturation on Sandstone, Porous Limestone, Freshwater Limestone, and
Rhyolite Tuff: An investigation into the saturation-induced softening of 4 distinct lithologies. This study identifies how varying pore structures dictate the loss of tensile and compressive strength when the rock is fully saturated.
4. Impact of Salt Crystallization Cycles on Sandstone, Porous Limestone, Freshwater Limestone, and Rhyolite Tuff: This project simulates salt-induced decay through 3 experimental groups (5, 10, and 15 cycles). The goal is to identify the critical threshold where internal crystallization pressure transitions into a permanent structural failure.
5. Impact of Freeze-Thaw Cycles on Sandstone, Porous Limestone, Freshwater Limestone, and
Rhyolite Tuff: A comprehensive evaluation of frost resistance across four distinct rock types. This study correlates internal damage with final tensile strength loss to establish a durability hierarchy for construction materials in cold climates.