Microstructural analysis of sandstone from Pravčická brána, the largest rock arch in Europe
The result's identifiers
Result code in IS VaVaI
<a href="https://www.isvavai.cz/riv?ss=detail&h=RIV%2F00216208%3A11310%2F25%3A10500450" target="_blank" >RIV/00216208:11310/25:10500450 - isvavai.cz</a>
Result on the web
<a href="https://verso.is.cuni.cz/pub/verso.fpl?fname=obd_publikace_handle&handle=R5aDJnzOVh" target="_blank" >https://verso.is.cuni.cz/pub/verso.fpl?fname=obd_publikace_handle&handle=R5aDJnzOVh</a>
DOI - Digital Object Identifier
<a href="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.geomorph.2025.109617" target="_blank" >10.1016/j.geomorph.2025.109617</a>
Alternative languages
Result language
angličtina
Original language name
Microstructural analysis of sandstone from Pravčická brána, the largest rock arch in Europe
Original language description
This study uses a multi-method approach to perform a comprehensive microstructural analysis and to discuss the resistance to various weathering processes of sandstone from Pravčická brána, the largest sandstone arch in Europe. In addition to conventionally used methods of sample testing such as mercury intrusion porosimetry, we focused on experimental and non-destructive sample testing such as pore network modelling and permeability simulation based on post-processed μCT images or saturation flow experiments using non-Newtonian fluids - ANA method. These methods showed consistent pore size distribution (PSD) peaks at 18 μm (ANA), 22 μm (PNM) and 48 μm (MIP). The sandstone exhibited high total porosity (34-45 %) and effective porosity (30-42 %), with a network predominantly composed of macropores (>50 nm) that are readily accessible to water. Laboratory tests yielded a permeability of 3.1 x 10(-5) m.s(-1), which is close to the simulated value of 2.21 x 10(-5) m.s(-1). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis identified features such as quartz grain fractures that were attributed to past frost weathering processes. Analysis of the PSD indicated high resistance of the sandstone studied to freeze-thaw and salt weathering. However, when considering other factors, such as mechanical and hydraulic properties and tectonic predisposition in the arch body, the vulnerability of Pravčická brána becomes more evident. The susceptibility of Pravčická brána sandstone to weathering is increased by its low strength (as evident from previous studies), which is further reduced by ongoing weathering, while the presence of the observed macropores increases the likelihood of fracturing under deformation. This study highlights the need to integrate advanced techniques with traditional methods to provide a comprehensive assessment of sandstone durability.
Czech name
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Czech description
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Classification
Type
J<sub>imp</sub> - Article in a specialist periodical, which is included in the Web of Science database
CEP classification
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OECD FORD branch
10505 - Geology
Result continuities
Project
<a href="/en/project/GA21-27291S" target="_blank" >GA21-27291S: Non-Newtonian fluid mechanics in porous media: characterization of the hydraulic and transport properties in relation to the pore size distribution.</a><br>
Continuities
P - Projekt vyzkumu a vyvoje financovany z verejnych zdroju (s odkazem do CEP)
Others
Publication year
2025
Confidentiality
S - Úplné a pravdivé údaje o projektu nepodléhají ochraně podle zvláštních právních předpisů
Data specific for result type
Name of the periodical
Geomorphology
ISSN
0169-555X
e-ISSN
1872-695X
Volume of the periodical
473
Issue of the periodical within the volume
March
Country of publishing house
NL - THE KINGDOM OF THE NETHERLANDS
Number of pages
15
Pages from-to
109617
UT code for WoS article
001410386400001
EID of the result in the Scopus database
2-s2.0-85215627180