Thermal Effects on Microcracking and Physical Characteristics of Khoramdareh, Natanz, Nehbandan, and Taibad Granites

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Faculty of Basic Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

This study explores the thermal behavior of four widely used Iranian granites - Khoramdareh,
Nehbandan, Natanz, and Taibad - under temperatures ranging from 20°C to 1050°C. The investigation
focused on the evolution of microcracks and their impact on key physical properties such as porosity,
water absorption, and P-wave velocity in both dry and saturated conditions. Using fluorescence
microscopy, linear microcrack density (LMD), microcracks type, and width were analyzed in detail. At
300°C, all granite samples showed an increase in inter-crystalline microcracks, leading to elevated
porosity and water absorption. At 600°C, the quartz phase transition at 573°C resulted in volumetric
expansion, causing a temporary decrease in porosity and an increase in P wave velocity. For example,
the dry P wave velocities at 600°C were 4.77 km/s for Taibad, 4.71 km/s for Khoramdareh, 3.84 km/s
for Natanz, and 5.12 km/s for Nehbandan. Above 750°C, trans-crystalline microcracks became
dominant, significantly increasing porosity and water absorption while reducing P wave velocity.
Nehbandan granite suffered structural failure at 600°C, whereas Natanz exhibited the highest LMD at
750°C, indicating severe internal damage. The study highlights the importance of microcracks evolution
and mineralogical transformations, particularly quartz phase transitions, in controlling granite's thermal
stability. Three critical thresholds (300°C, 600°C, and 750°C) were identified as turning points in the
deterioration process. Additionally, this research introduces a novel methodological approach,
combining fluorescence microscopy with physical testing to achieve detailed characterization of thermal
damage. By extending the temperature range up to 1050°C, the study provides valuable insights into
granite performance in fire-prone and heat-exposed environments.

Keywords

Main Subjects


Article Title [Persian]

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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 08 September 2025
  • Receive Date: 14 February 2025
  • Revise Date: 01 August 2025
  • Accept Date: 08 September 2025