Application of Rock Abrasiveness and Rock Abrasivity Test Methods—A Review

Abstract

The processes of rock formation have long been known and widely described in many literature items worldwide. Due to the multitude of occurring rock types, they are distinguished by various properties. For many decades, scientists worldwide have been determining various parameters by which these properties of rocks can be described. Tests of these parameters are commonly performed in many research centres worldwide. Depending on the scientific discipline, some researchers focus on geological properties (colour, structure, texture, chemical composition). Other researchers focus on physical and mechanical properties: hardness, density, strength properties, compactness, etc. Among them, abrasiveness and abrasivity can also be distinguished. In terms of nomenclature, they are very similar and often confused. Even within the academic community, researchers often use the names interchangeably, which needs to be corrected. This article aims to explain the difference between rock abrasiveness and rock abrasivity, classify methods for their assessment and present their practical applications in the mining and construction industry. It should be emphasized here that abrasiveness is determined when we are interested in the abrasive wear of natural stone and abrasivity when we are interested in the wear of the tool with which we cut the stone. The purpose of this article is also to let the reader decide whether to carry out an abrasiveness or abrasivity test and which method to use.