Correlation Between Strength and Durability of Sandstones from the Dumri Formation, Tinau Khola Area, West-Central Nepal

Strength and Durability indices are two significant geotechnical criteria that can describe rock fragments' strength and weathering resistance. The Dumri Formation is the youngest and thickest of the Tansen Group, Lesser Himalaya. A thick succession of medium-grained, bluish-grey quartzose sandstone and red-purple shale represents it. To assess the quality of the sandstones, different laboratory tests and analyses were made to characterize the physical and mechanical properties of the sandstones. Physical properties were greatly influenced by composition and texture. The intact rock strength was figured out by the point load strength index (PLSI) and Aggregate impact value (AIV). Rock durability against slaking was determined using the slake durability index (SDI) test. The strength and durability indices were correlated through regression analysis. Sandstones assessed were classified as lithic and feldspathic wacke. Sandstones exhibited high resistance to slaking and are extremely durable (SDI = 99.53-99.86%) under a two-cycle test. Sandstones are strong to very strong (PLSI = 5.28-8.92 MPa) and possess high impact resistance (AIV = 6-9%). The correlation between PLSI and SDI was found to be high (r=0.86). Similarly, a correlation between AIV and SDI was (r=0.98), and between AIV and PLSI was (r=0.86).