Investigation of the Degradation Mechanism of the Tensile Mechanical Properties of Sandstone under the Corrosion of Various pH Solutions

Abstract

The research aimed to examine the impact of different pH solutions on the tensile mechanical properties of saturated and natural sandstone specimens. The study utilized the WHY-300/10 microcomputer-controlled pressure testing machine to conduct Brazil splitting tests and employed acoustic emission and local dynamic strain testing techniques. The results indicated the tensile strength and split tensile modulus of the sandstone specimens gradually decreased with the polarisation of the solution pH, and the acoustic emission signal ring number monitoring values showed an increasing trend. The pH of the soaking solution followed an exponential decay pattern over time, eventually tending towards weak alkalinity. A new damage variable based on the cumulative ring count after chemical corrosion was defined to indirectly analyze the degree of corrosion degradation. It was discovered that in acidic or alkaline environments, the internal crystals of the rock are dissolved, weakening the mineral interconnections and causing a deterioration in tensile stress and strength. These findings can provide valuable insights for ensuring the safety and stability of the Denglou Mountain Tunnel in Yunnan Province.