Porosity and Water Content Prediction with Dry Unit Weight Measurements of Evaporitic Rocks from Abu Dhabi City, United Arab Emirates

The evaporitic rocks commonly occur at the surface or depth and may be found in the foundations of buildings and infrastructure constructions in Abu Dhabi. The evaporites typically are composed of gypsum, anhydrite, and halite-rich sediments. Due to their variable textures, structures, and chemical composition, and changes in the surrounding conditions because of watering and dewatering, their mechanical and physical properties can variate. Therefore, predicting the porosity (n) and water content (WC) of evaporites is critical at various stages of construction. The aim is to simply predict the n and wc of evaporites from their measured dry unit weights (γd) and provide guidelines to engineers to help reduce the cost of hazards assessment of the engineering projects constructed on/in evaporite rocks. Extensive field study and rock sampling were carried out, and evaporite rock samples were collected from 27 locations in Abu Dhabi city and its surroundings. The n, wc, and γd of evaporitic rocks were measured on 355 samples. The linear regression analyses indicated that the mean n and wc decreased with the mean γd of evaporitic rocks. The representative best-fit lines equations and the corresponding correlation coefficient, R values, were estimated as −0.85 and −0.78. Fast, simple, and reliable prediction of n and wc from γd will be useful and initiate the possibility of quick judgment/prediction of evaporite durability and strength behavior. Ultimately, the study will benefit the UAE economy, help minimize risks, and increase engineering structures’ safety.