Prediction of mechanical properties of non-welded and moderately welded ignimbrite using physical properties, ultrasonic pulse velocity, and point load index tests

Nine moderately welded and non-welded ignimbrite types having commercial value and used in historical structures were tested to estimate their mechanical properties by index tests. Physico-mechanical properties of 264 rack cores, including apparent porosity, water absorption by weight, unit weight, ultrasonic velocity, point load index, compressive strength and modulus of elasticity were determined. These properties were used in statistical evaluations, as input parameters in multiple regressions and artificial neural network analyses. Several combinations of physical and mechanical properties were used to determine the best estimates. As a result, new equations were determined to estimate mechanical properties of non-welded and moderately welded ignimbrite using index tests; also, a new chart using index properties was developed to estimate elastic moduli of ignimbrite.