Interface between Mineralogy and Mechanical Properties of Granitic Rocks in Some Parts of S/W Nigeria for Dimension Stone Production

Abstract

Granites are quarried for construction as well as structural support purposes. The materials to serve these purposes must meet the required mechanical properties. Interface between the mineralogy and the mechanical properties of selected granite rock types were analyzed to identify the granite regions that are suitable for dimension stone quarrying. From this work, it can be established that granodiorite, monzogranite and syeno – granite are all suitable for all dimension sone application based on their mechanical properties. K-feldspar granite and tonalite may have limited application due to high percentages of feldspar. Quartzolite and quartz-rich granitoids may not be suitable due to their brittle nature. All granite outside these region are predominantly feldspar (k and plagioclase) which will result in a significant reduction in mechanical properties and this in turn make them unsuitable for dimension stone production