Laboratory Investigation of the Effects of Temperature on the Mechanical Properties of Sandstone

An experimental study has been carried out as part of a wider programme of research in order to examine some of the physico-mechanical properties of the Jiaozuo Sandstone after exposure to extremely high temperatures. The mechanical properties of the rock under examination are discussed before the results of the thermo-mechanical response of the sandstone are presented and analysed. The range of temperature to which the sandstone has been exposed is 20–1,200 °C. The physical properties considered include the shape, volume, mass and density changes and the velocity of longitudinal and transverse elastic waves through the samples, before and after exposure to high temperature. The mechanical properties considered include the stress–strain response, the uniaxial compressive strength, the modulus of elasticity and the Poisson’s ratio. The results are analysed and discussed and possible mechanisms for the observed thermo-mechanical response, are postulated.