A new technique for rapid and non-destructive measurement of rock-surface moisture content; preliminary application to weathering studies of sandstone blocks

摘要

The possibility of in situ rapid, non-destructivemeasuring of rock moisture content using an infrared opticalmoisture meter is examined. A laboratory test indicates that alinear relation is found between absorbance intensity of infraredrays and the moisture content of the surface of rock samples. Theinstrument was applied in the field in order to understand theweathering processes in sandstone blocks used for a masonrybridge pier better. The results show that the spatial and temporalchanges in rock-surface moisture content are accurately measured,and that the infrared moisture meter is useful for weathering studies.