1.1This test method covers the laboratory determination of the linear (one-dimensional) coefficient of thermal expansion of rock using bonded electric resistance strain gauges. This test method is intended for evaluation of intact rock cores. Discontinuities in the rock mass, such as joints, inclusions, voids, veins, bedding, and the like can influence the thermal expansion of the rock, and judgment should be used when selecting the specimen to be analyzed in this test method.
1.2This test method is applicable for unconfined stress states over the temperature range from 20 to 260°C.
Note 1:Unconfined tests performed at elevated temperatures may alter the mineralogy or grain structure of the test specimen. This alteration may change the physical and thermal properties of the test specimen.
Note 2:The strain gauges are mounted with epoxy. Most commercially available high temperature epoxies require elevated temperature curing. The elevated temperature required for this curing may alter the physical and thermal properties of the test specimen. Epoxy should be selected based upon the maximum expected test temperature. Room temperature curing epoxy should be used whenever practical.
1.3The test specimens may be either saturated, dry or unsaturated. If saturated or unsaturated specimens are used, then the test temperature shall be at least 10°C less than the boiling point of the saturating fluid in order to reduce the effects of evaporation of the fluid.
Note 3:When testing a saturated specimen, the gravimetric water content of the specimen may change unless special precautions are taken to encapsulate the test specimen. Refer to 7.4.
1.4Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.5All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D6026.
1.5.1The procedure used to specify how data are collected/recorded or calculated in this standard are regarded as the industry standard. In addition, they are representative of the significant digits that generally should be retained. The procedures used do not consider material variation, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any considerations for the user’s objectives; and it is common practice to increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to be commensurate with these considerations. It is beyond the scope of this standard to consider significant digits used in analytical methods for engineering design.
1.6This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory requirements prior to use.
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