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Project Details

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Project Information Sheet

ASTM testing of the Salem Limestone

Funding Source:	Indiana Geological Survey and funding from the Indiana Limestone Institute
Period of Contract:	1 Jan 1997
Status:	ongoing — Definition of status type
Project Director:	John R. Hill and Samuel Frushour

Issue

Samples of dimension limestone are submitted to the Indiana Geological Survey for physical testing to determine suitability for use.

Objective

Data from the ASTM tests cited have been performed by the Indiana Geological Survey since the early 1950s. These data define physical strength and performance of masonry products fabricated from the Salem Limestone; the data also have been useful to geologists in interpreting depositional environments and diagenetic systems relevant to the Salem Limestone.

Approach

Testing specifications from ASTM are followed exactly and testing data are recorded. The following ASTM (formerly American Society for Testing and Materials) standard tests are performed on samples submitted by the dimension limestone industry and occasionally on samples of other building stone lithologies: C97-96, Absorption and Bulk Specific Gravity; C99-87, Modulus of Rupture; C170-99, Compressive Strength; C241-97, Abrasion Resistance; and C880-98, Flexural Strength.

Products

Published data sets.

Benefits

The Indiana dimension limestone industry, including quarries and mills; the Indiana Limestone Institute; architects; planners; educators; and civil engineers all benefit from knowing the physical strength parameters, resistance to abrasion, and density of the Salem Limestone. Over the years, these data have been incorporated into many job specifications, as well as the Indiana Limestone Handbook.

Locations Affected:

Lawrence

Monroe

Indiana House Districts Affected:

60

61

62

65

Indiana Senate Districts Affected:

37

40

44

Information Updated February 1, 2007

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