Ira, J. R , c k Mec'h. Min. Sci. & Ge~,mec'h. ,4bstr. Vol. 26, No. 5, pp. 415-426. 1989 0148-9062/$9 $3.00+0.

00
Printed in Grea! Britain Pergamon Prex p k

INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR ROCK MECHANICS

COMMISSION ON SWELLING ROCK AND WORKING GROUP ON

SWELLING ROCK OF THE COMMISSION ON TESTING METHODS

SUGGESTED METHODS FOR

LABORATORY TESTING OF ARGILLACEOUS SWELLING ROCKS

CONTENTS
Part I: Sampling, Storage and Preparation of Test Specimens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 419
Part 2: Determining the Maximum Axial Swelling Stress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 420
Part 3: Determining the Axial and Radial Free Swelling Strain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 422
Part 4: Determining Axial Swelling Stress as a Function of Axial Swelling Strain . . . . . . . . . 423
Conclusions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 425
Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 425
References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 426
Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 426

Co-ordinator
H. Einstein (U.S.A.)

R~'~s 2~ ~ e 415
416 ISRM: LABORATORYTESTING SUGGESTED METHODS

INTRODUCTION
The engineering problems caused by swelling rocks are widely recognized, as is the need to test
these rocks to determine the type and extent of their swelling behaviour and to measure this for
purposes of design.
The ISRM Commission on Swelling Rock was formed in 1980 to provide a systematic treatment
of the swelling rock problem. In the ISRM document Characterization of Swelling Rock [!] the
problem was defined. The next step is an integrated approach to testing, analysis and design. The
Commission is developing a number of suggested testing methods and a survey of analysis/design
methods of which the testing procedures are an integral part. Nevertheless, the testing methods are
presented in form of separate "Suggested Methods". This is done to make the material available
in a timely manner to the interested engineer and also to provide documents which are suited to
practical use in the laboratory. In the development of testing methods, the ISRM Commission on
Swelling Rocks was joined by the Working Group on Swell Testing of the ISRM Commission on
Testing Methods. Collaboration between the two Commissions has been aimed at achieving a
consistence of presentation and format with previously published "Suggested Methods".
Once more we emphasize that the purpose of "Suggested Methods" is to specify rock testing
procedures and to achieve some degree of standardization without inhibiting the development of
improvement of techniques. This is particularly pertinent in the case of swelling rocks which,
because of their variability, often require special non-standard treatment during both specimen
preparation and testing which differs from what is proposed here.
This particular document treats Laboratory Testing of Argillaceous Swelling Rocks and consists
of four parts:
Part 1: Sampling, storage and preparation of test specimens;
Part 2: Determining the maximum axial swelling stress;
Part 3: Determining the axial and radial free swelling strain;
Part 4: Determining axial swelling stress as a function of axial swelling strain.
These "'Suggested Methods" are intended to replace and update those published in [2]. It is
important to note that specimen preparation and testing methods only deal with argillaceous rocks.
Anhydrite swell testing, because of significant differences in anhydrite and argillaceous swelling will
be treated in separate suggested methods.
The tests described in Parts 2 and 3 are simple ones providing first estimates of the order of
magnitude of the maximum swelling stress and maximum swelling strain. For rigorous analysis and
design, only the complete stress-strain behaviour as obtained with the tests described in Part 4
is acceptable. The forthcoming guidelines on analysis/design of structures in and on swelling rock
are based on this kind of test. Since such complete tests can last for as long as 4 months, first
estimates obtained with either one or both of the simpler tests will be useful for engineering
purposes, for example in preliminary design. Also, the simple tests allow one to quickly estimate
where the most critical zones exist and to collect additional samples there for use in the complete
test. Finally, the simple tests can be used as field control tests during construction. The engineer
is responsible for selecting the appropriate tests in the context of design and construction of a
particular project. The tests described here are intended for practical use. For research on swelling
behaviour, other tests may have to be used.
 ISRM: LABORATORYTESTING SUGGESTEDMETHODS 417

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
All members of the [SRM Commission on Swelling Rock as well as a number of special
contributors participated in the work leading to this document:
H. H. Einstein, U.S.A. (Chairman), F. Madscn, Switzerland (Chairman, Group on Testing),
M. Gysel, Switzerland (Chairman, Group on Design and Analysis), W. E. Bamford, Australia,
D. C. Banks, U.S.A., N. Bischoff, Switzerland, T. Brekke, U.S.A., H. Duddek, Germany,
A. J. DaCosta Nunes, U.S.A., D. Fabre, France, E. Fecker, Germany, J. Franklin, Canada,
B. Frohlich, Germany, D. Kirschke, Germany, K. Kovari, Switzerland, C. F. Lee, Canada,
C. W. Lovell, U.S.A., R. T. Martin, U.S.A., G. Mesri, U.S.A., N. Morgenstern, Canada,
H. J. Olivier, Republic of South Africa, B. Pierau, Germany, T. Tjong-Kie, China and
R. Yoshinaka, Japan.
In addition, the following members of the Working Group on Swelling Rock, ISRM Commission
on Testing Methods, participated:
P. N. Sundaram, U.S.A. (Chairman), Z. Ofer, South Africa, J. D. Rodrigues, Portugal,
V. S. Vutukuri, Australia and A. Serrano, Spain.
 1SRM: LABORATORYTESTING SUGGESTED METHODS 419

Suggested Methods for Laboratory

Testing of Argillaceous Swelling Rocks

Part 1: Suggested Methods for Sampling, Storage and Preparation of Test

Specimens

SCOPE to be filled with suitable cushioning material such as

straw, shredded foam or paper.
i. These suggested methods describe techniques for
(i) Samples are to be protected from frost and extreme
sampling, preparing and storing specimens for labora-
heat at all times during sampling and transportation.
tory swelling tests of argillaceous rocks.
Sample temperature is to remain in the range 5-30°C.

SAMPLINGtt
STORAGE OF SAMPLES
2. (a) To obtain meaningful results from swelling tests,
3. (a) Storage time should be minimized
the samples are to have, as far as possible, the same
(b) Storage in a constant temperature (20°C) room is
density and water content as those in situ at the time of
preferred.
sampling.
(c) The samples must not be exposed to direct sun-
(b) Rock samples are to be collected preferably from
light.
core borings. Borings should be performed with air
(d) If long-term storage is necessary, humidity in the
pressure or, with an anti-swelling admixture (such as
storage room should be such as to minimize any mois-
Antisol) in the cooling (flushing) water, whichever is best
ture gain or loss of the samples.
to keep the sample as close to its natural state as
possible.
(c) Coring is to be accomplished using either a double SPECIMEN PREPARATION
tube or triple tube core barrel. The core diameter should
4. (a) The sampling logs and photographs are to be
be at least NX but preferably closer to 100 ram. The
examined to select blocks and cores that will yield the
sample shall be sufficient to prepare at least three
required sizes, shapes and numbers of specimens.
undisturbed specimens, and have enough additional
(b) Multiple specimens are to be prepared from the
material for identification tests.
same sample. At least three are to be used for testing and
(d) Block sampling is another possibility. The final
one as a reference specimen for determination of water
dimensions of the block sample are to be sufficient for
content, specific gravity and degree of saturation. (The
preparation of at least three undisturbed specimens, and
particular number of specimens for each of the tests
have enough additional material for identification tests.
depends on the availability of material and on the testing
(e) The cores or blocks are to be logged by a geologist
program--see Introduction.)
and photographed. Prior to logging, the cores or blocks
(c) Specimens are to be prepared as rapidly as possible.
are to be cleaned by removing the mud cake. Their
If machining (cutting, recoring to a smaller diameter) of
condition, such as mechanical breakage, presence of
the specimen is required this must be done with air-cool-
mud cake on the surfaces of the core or block, and
ing or with an anti-swelling medium (such as Antisol) in
presence of seams shall be noted. Natural fissures, if any,
the cooling water, whichever is best to keep the specimen
are to be clearly identified.
as close to its natural condition as possible. In general,
(f) The samples are then to be wrapped with a
recoring is to be avoided. For argillaceous rocks that can
waterproof liner such as a thin plastic sheet, followed by
break easily, the special procedure described in the
aluminum foil, and sealed with a paraffin wax.
Appendix is to be used.
(g) The sealed cores or blocks are to be labelled giving
(d) The specimens required for the tests described in
details of the sampling location, depth and elevation.
Parts 2, 3 and 4 below are to be in the shape of a right
(h) To reduce breakage of cores or blocks during
circular disc. Experience has shown that for specimen
transportation from the field site to the testing labora-
diameters between 50 and 100 ram, a thickness between
tory, the samples are to be placed in containers, and the
20 and 30 mm is most suitable.
space between cores or blocks ~nd the container wall is
(e) The specimen is to be measured and placed in the
appropriate apparatus as described in Parts 2, 3 and 4
tNumbers refer to notes at the end of the text. below.
 420 ISRM: LABORATORYTESTING SUGGESTED METHODS

P a r t 2: S u g g e s t e d Methods for Determining Maximum Axial Swelling Stress

SCOPE (d) A stainless-steel loading plate [(3) in Fig. !] of the

!. (a) The test is intended to measure the axial stress same bottom diameter as the upper porous plate, but
necessary to constrain an undisturbed radially confined slightly conically shaped, and placed on top of the
rock specimen at constant thickness when immersed in porous plate. The loading plate has to be thick enough
water. to ensure rigid strain application; for specimen diameters
between 50 and 100 mm a 10 mm thick plate is adequate.
(e) A rigid frame [(7) in Fig. 1] with a loading device
APPARATUS 2 capable of continuous adjustment to maintain the height
of specimen at a consant value.
The apparatus is to include the following as schemat-
ically shown in Fig. !. (f) A loading piston or rod [(8) in Fig. I] with a
2. (a) A stainless steel ring [(!) in Fig. 1], for rigid hemispherical end or a separate sphere to rest on the
loading plate.
radial restraint of the specimen. The inner surface of the
ring is to be polished and smooth. The wall thickness ot (g) Two micrometer dial gauges [(5) in Fig. I] with a
the ring depends on its other dimensions and has to be sensitivity of 2.5 microns to measure the axial swelling
calculated based on those dimensions and the maximum or compressive displacement of the specimen. The dial
lateral stresses to be expected. Not more than l 0 -4 radial gauges are attached to the bottom of cell (4).
strain is allowed. Thicknesses between 5 and 10 mm (h) A stiff load measuring device 3 [(6) in Fig. 1], for
usually are satisfactory. Several rings should be available instance an electromechanical load cell capable of mea-
to fit all desired specimen dimensions. suring to an accuracy of +0.5% of the maximum rating
(b) Two porous metal plates [(2) in Fig. 1]. The porous of the load measuring device.
plates should be made of high modulus material. Porous (i) A cell [(4) in Fig. I] to contain the specimen
stainless-steel plates are most suitable. Alternatively, assembly, and filled with water to a level above the top
stainless-steel plates into which a number of small holes of the specimen.
(dia 0.1 ram) have been drilled are also suitable. In the (j) A desiccator.
latter case, small channels connecting the small holes to PROCEDURE
the water supply are required.
(c) One porous plate is to be above the specimen and 3. (a) The test is to be conducted in an environment
the other below. The lower plate is to have a diameter where the ambient temperature can be maintained con-
of approx. 5 mm greater than the outer diameter of the stant at 20 + 2°C.
specimen ring, and the upper plate has to be of a size just (b) The thickness ho of the specimen which was
fitting the inside of the ring without restraining its prepared as described in Part 1 (Specimen Preparation)
movement. is to be measured in at least three places between
specimen ends, to an accuracy of +0.I ram.
(c) The specimen diameter d is to be measured at least
at three places along the specimen height and in at least
three directions at each of these three locations. Measur-
ing accuracy is again to be better than +0.1 ram.
I (d) The mass of the specimen is then to be determined
to 0.1 g and the mass M~ recorded.
(e) The specimen ring is to be cleaned, and its mass Mo
determined and recorded.
(f) The specimen is then inserted into the ring. The
specimen must fit snugly into the ring.
(g) The apparatus is assembled. The ring with the
,I i , : specimen is placed on the lower porous plate, followed
by the upper porous plate and the steel loading plate.
The piston is brought into contact with the top plate and
2 centred.
1 (h) A seating load corresponding to an axial stress of
25 kPa is to be applied. The initial readings of the
4 micrometer dial gauges are noted.
(i) The cell is then to be filled with water to cover the
top porous plate. Either distilled water, water from the
Fig. I. Apparatus for measuringthe axial swellingstress: (1) stainless- sampling site, or water with a special chemical composi-
steel ring; (2) porous metal plates; (3) stainless-steelloading plate; (4) tion may be used. Distilled water is normally used.
cell; (5) dial gauges [attached to bottom of cell (4), attachment not
shown]; (6) load measuring device: (7) rigid frame: and (8) loading (j) The axial force N and the axial displacement 6 are
piston. measured and recorded as a function of elapsed time t.
 ISRM: LABORATORYTESTING SUGGESTED METHODS
O' (N)
'(A)
O'*(NMAX)
D.t
Time
cr (N)
(B)
O'* (N~x)
~E
o
Y compensated swelling strains
Fig. 2. Plots of axial stress fforcc) vs time (A) and vs compensated
swelling strains (B).
(k) Small amounts of axial strain are to be compen-
sated in a stepwise manner by increasing the axial force
as shown in Fig. 2B. The steps should be kept as small
as possible, particularly toward the end of the test (see
Fig. 2B); this is necessary to obtain an accurate measure-
ment of the maximum axial force and thus maximum
axial swelling stress. An axial strain of 0.05% in the last
increment is usually adequate.
(!) The test should be continued 4 until no more axial
swelling displacement can be observed or the maximum
axial force (maximum axial swelling stress) has been
reached (Fig. 2A).
(m) The ring with the specimen is then to be removed
from the cell, the excess water wiped off, and the mass
M, determined and recorded. For strongly swelling rock
the water is drained off before unloading.
(n) The specimen with the ring is heated in an oven to
constant mass at a temperature of 105 + 2°C)
(o) The specimen is removed from the ring and
allowed to cool in a desiccator. The oven-dry mass M3
is determined and recorded. Alternatively, the specimen
can be oven heated, without the ring.
CALCULATIONS
4. (a) The following test parameters are calculated: the
421
area of cross section of the specimen, A; the axial stress
~; the compensated swelling strains c,.
(b) The area of cross section A of the specimen is
calculated as:
nd 2
A=
4
where d is the specimen diameter.
(c) The axial stress # is calculated as:
N
A
where N is the measured axial force.
(d) The compensated swelling strain Ac is calculated
as:
A6
A£ ------
ho '
where A6 is the displacement increment and ho the
original thickness of the specimen.
(e) Density, initial and final water contents and degree
of saturation are calculated?
REPORTING OF RESULTS
5. (a) The report is to include the following for each
specimen:
(i) A unique identification of the sample and of each
individual specimen.
(ii) Information on geographic origin, lithology, fab-
ric and, if possible, mineralogy and pore water
chemistry of the sample specimen.
(iii) Date and method of sampling; date(s) of testing.
(iv) Method of sealing and storage.
(v) Method of specimen preparation for testing.
(vi) Orientation of the specimen axis relative to speci-
men anisotropy and relative to in-situ directions.
(vii) Dimensions of the test specimen.
(viii) Density water content, specific gravity and degree
of saturation of the reference specimen (see
Part i).
(ix) Final density, water content and degree of satura-
tion of the test specimen.
(x) Test temperature.
(xi) Applied preload.
(xii) Specifications of water used for immersion.
(xiii) A plot of axial stress vs elapsed time, similar to
Fig. 2A.
(xiv) A plot of axial stress vs compensated swelling
strain, similar to Fig. 2B.
(xv) Maximum axial swelling stress o* (see Fig. 2),
this is the maximum stress needed to maintain a
constant specimen height.
(xvi) Total compensated swelling strain (optional).
 422 ISRM: LABORATORYTESTING SUGGESTED METHODS

Part 3: Suggested Methods for Determining Axial and Radial Free Swelling Strain

SCOPE (b) The specimen thickness ho is to be measured in at

least three places between specimen ends, to an accuracy
!. (a) The test is intended to measure the axial and
of +0.1 mm.
radial free swelling strain developed when an un-
(c) The specimen diameter do is to be measured in at
confined, undisturbed rock specimen is immersed in
least three places along the specimen thickness and in at
water.
(b) The test as described here uses specimens in the least three directions at each of these three locations.
shape of a right circular disc as described in Part 1 Measuring accuracy is again to be better than + 0.1 ram.
(d) The mass of the specimen is then to be determined
(Specimen Preparation). The test can also be performed
to 0.1 g and the mass recorded.
with other specimen shapes, such as entirely irregular
(e) The stainless-steel band is attached and the speci-
pieces which have undergone no specimen preparation at
men with the dial gauge (or equivalent) is mounted in the
all. The apparatus and procedure have to be adapted to
cell.
such specimen shapes.
(f) The cell is to be filled with water to cover the
specimen. Either distilled water, water from the sampling
APPARATUS site or water with a special chemical composition may be
used. Distilled water is normally used. 9
2. It is suggested that the apparatus 7 include the
(g) The axial swelling displacement 6,, is recorded as
following as shown in Fig. 3:
a function of time elapsed.
(a) A cell to contain the specimen [(I) in Fig. 3].
(h) The swelling displacement is recorded until a
(b) A micrometer dial gauge (or equivalent) with a
constant or a maximum value has been reachedJ
sensitivity of 2.5 microns, mounted to measure the
(i) After swelling is terminated, and before the speci-
swelling displacement on the central axis of the specimen
men is removed from the cell, the increase in circumfer-
[(2) in Fig. 3].
ence AC is measured with the stainless-steel band.
(c) A glass plate, positioned at the point of gauging to
(j) The specimen is heated in an oven to constant mass
prevent indentation of the specimen [(3) in Fig. 3].
at a temperature of 105 + T C , then cooled in a desicca-
(d) A thin (0. ! mm) flexible, stainless steel band [(4) in
tor, and the oven-dry mass determined and recordedJ
Fig. 3] attached to the specimen by an elastic rubber
band. The steel band is calibrated at 0.1 mm intervals
and is used to determine the radial swellings deforma- CALCULATIONS
tion.
4. (a) The axial swelling strain q~ and the radial
PROCEDURE swelling strain Crad are determined.
(b) The axial swelling strain is calculated as:
3. (a) The test is to be conducted in an environment
~ax
where the ambient temperature can be maintained con-
stant at 20 + 2°C. ca~ ho
where 6.~ is the axial displacement and ho the original
thickness of the specimen.
(c) The radial swelling strain is calculated as:
~rad
Crad ~ --~-o*
2 where do = initial specimen diameter and

5 AC
7[

where AC -- increase in specimen circumference as mea-

sured with the stainless steel band (see 3i).
(d) Density, initial and final water contents and degree
of saturation are calculated?

REPORTING OF RESULTS
5. The test report is to include the following for each
specimen:

Fig. 3. Apparatus for measuring the swellingstrain: (I) cell; (2) dial (i) A unique identification of the sample and of each
gauge; (3) glass plate; (4) stainless-steel band; and (5) specimen, individual specimen.
 ISRM: LABORATORYTESTING SUGGESTED METHODS 423

(iii) Date and method of sampling; date(s) of testing.

(iv) Method of sealing and storage.
t* (v) Method of specimen preparation for testing.
(vi) Orientation of the specimen axis with respect to
._q specimen anisotropy and relative to in situ directions.
(vii) Dimensions of the test specimen.
otL (viii) Density, water content, specific gravity and de-
gree of saturation of the reference specimen (see Part i).
(ix) Water content of the test specimen after the
tbt swelling test.
(x) Test temperature.
Time (xi) Specification of water used for immersion.
Fig. 4. Determinationof swellingstain. ¢* = maximumaxial swelling (xii) A plot of axial swelling strain vs elapsed time
strain; ~*.e= maximum radial swellingstrain. similar to Fig. 4.
(xiii) Maximum axial swelling strain (see Fig. 4).
(xiv) Maximum radial swelling strain (see Fig. 4).
(ii) Information on geographic origin, lithology, fab- (xv) Volumetric strain, either computed from axial
ric, and if possible, mineralogy of the sample and and radial swelling strain for regularly shaped speci-
specimens. mens, or determined by the liquid displacement method.

Part 4: Suggested Methods for Determining Axial Swelling Stress as a Function of

Axial Swelling Strain

SCOPE (d) A stainless-steel loading plate of the same bottom

l. (a) The test is intended to measure the axial swelling
strain necessary to reduce the axial swelling stress of a
radially constrained rock specimen immersed in water
from its maximum value to a value which is acceptable
in the particular application. It is intended for applica-
tion to cases where analogous boundary conditions
prevail.
diameter as the upper porous plate but slightly conically
shaped, and placed on top of the porous plate. The
loading plate has to be thick enough to ensure rigid
strain application [(3) in Fig. 5]. An indentation in the
centre of the plate for placing the load transfer sphere
[see (e) below] is required.
(e) A loading frame [(6) in Fig. 5], with suitable
features to apply incremental loads up to a total load of

~
APPARATUS
2. See Fig. 5 for suggested apparatus. 5
(a) A stainless-steel ring '° for rigid radial restraint of
the specimen [(I) in Fig. 5]. The inner surface of the ring
is to be polished and smooth. The thickness of the ring
~-~ / 3
depends on its other dimensions and has to be calculated
based on these dimensions and the stresses to be ex- ill [ /<,~!l
pected; not more than 10 -4 radial strain is allowed.
Several rings should be available to fit all desired
specimen dimensions.
(b) Porous metal plates to introduce water at the top
and bottom of the specimen [(2) in Fig. 5]. The porous
plates should preferably be made of a high modulus
material. Porous stainless-steel plates are most suitable.
Alternatively, stainless-steel plates into which a number
of small holes (dia 0.1 mm) have been drilled are also
suitable. In the latter case small channels connecting the
small holes to the water supply are required.
(c) One porous plate is to be above the specimen and
I I
the other below. The lower plate is to have a diameter I,, I

approx. 5 mm greater than the outer diameter of the

specimen ring, and the upper plate has to be of a size just Fig. 5. Apparatus for measuring he axial swellingstress as a function
of axial swellingstrain: (I) stainless-steelring; (2) porous metal plates;
fitting the inside of the ring without restraining its (3) stainless-steelloadingplate; (4) cell; (5) dial gauge [attached to the
movement. bottom of cell (4)l; attachment not shown: and (6) loading frame.
 424 ISRM: LABORATORYTESTING SUGGESTED METHODS

10kN. Direct loading or indirect loading via a lever

using lead plates are possibilities. The loading frame
transmits the load to the top steel plate via a 2 cm dia
polished steel sphere. Eto t • E¢ ° E
(f) A micrometer dial gauge (or equivalent) with a
sensitivity at 2.5 microns attached to the bottom of cell
(4) and mounted in such a way as to measure compres-
sion and swelling along the central axis of the specimen
[(5) in Fig. 5].
(g) A cell [(4) in Fig. 5] (dia 15cm) to contain the
specimen assembly, which is filled with water to a level
above the top of the specimen.
(h) A desiccator.
oB
.A . axial stress
PROCEDURE 5 4 -

3. (a) The test is to be conducted in an environment

where the ambient temperature can be maintained con-
stant at 20 _ 2:C.
(b) The thickness ho of the specimen, which was
prepared as described in Part I (Section 4) is to be
measured in at least three places between specimen ends, Fig. 6. Axial stress vs total axial strain: (1) compression curve (without
to an accuracy of _+0.1 mm. water supply): (2) water applied at the stress, ~A; (3) swelling at the
stress, ~A: (4) unloading to era; (5) swelling at the stress, ~e: (6) matrix
(c) The specimen diameter d is to be measured in at deformation strain A~,; and (7) swelling strain A~.
least three places along the specimen thickness and in at
least three directions at each of these three locations.
Measuring accuracy is again to be better than _+0.1 mm. ducing displacements which are not representative of
(d) The mass of the specimen is then to be determined swelling.
to 0.1 g and the mass Mt recorded. (n) The ring with the specimen is then removed from
(e) The specimen ring is to be cleaned, and its mass Mo the cell, the excess water wiped off, and the mass M2
determined and recorded. determined and recorded.
(f) The specimen is then inserted into the ring. The (o) The specimen with the ring is heated in an oven to
specimen must fit snugly into the ring. constant mass at a temperature of 105 +_ 2°C. 5
(g) The apparatus is assembled. The ring with the (p) The specimen is removed from the ring and is
specimen is placed on the lower porous plate, followed allowed to cool in a desiccator. The oven-dry mass, M3
by placement of the upper porous plate, the loading is determined and recorded. Alternatively the specimen
plate and sphere. The load frame is then placed on the can be oven heated, without the ring.
sphere.
(h) The specimen is loaded in a stepwise manner up to
a load corresponding to a desired axial stress ~A" A stress CALCULATIONS
level comparable to the overburden stress at the sample
location is reasonable. This load and the corresponding 4. (a) The following test parameters are calculated: the
compression of the specimen is recorded. (Fig. 6, curve area of cross section of the specimen, A ; the axial stress
I). a; the axial compressive and swelling (heave) strain c.
(i) The cell is then filled with water to cover the top (b) The area of cross section A of the specimen is
porous plate. Either distilled water, or water from t h e calculated as:
sampling site or water with a special chemical composi- 7td2
tion may be used. Distilled water is normally used. 4'
(j) Initial swell heave is recorded (curve segment 3 in
Fig. 6). where d is the specimen diameter.
(k) The axial load is reduced in consistent decre- (¢) The axial stress a is calculated as:
mentsJ j It is usual to reduce the load by 50% in each N
step. However. other decrements can also be chosen. A'
(l) The swell heave for each load decrement is mea-
sured until no displacement can be observed for the where N is the measured axial force.
particular load decrement. The load decrement and the (d) The compressive and swelling strain c is calculated
displacement are recorded. as:
(m) Steps (k) and (1) are repeated down to a load
corresponding to 25 kPa ~:. Complete unloading is not 6
recommended because upward bulging may occur pro- ho
 ISRM: LABORATORY TESTING SUGGESTED METHODS
where ~ is the axial displacement and ho the original
thickness of the specimen.
(e) Density, initial and final water contents and degree
of saturation are calculated?
REPORTING OF RESULTS
5. (a) The test report is to include the following for
each specimen:
(i) A unique identification of the sample and of each
individual specimen.
(ii) Information on geographic origin, lithology,
fabric and, if possible, mineralogy of the sample
and specimen.
(iii) Date and method of sampling; date(s) of testing.
(iv) Method of sealing and storage.
(v) Method of specimen preparation for testing.
(iv) Orientation of the specimen axis with respect to
specimen anisotropy, specifically with respect to
bedding planes and relative to in situ directions.
(vii) Dimensions of the test specimen.
(viii) Density, water content, specific gravity and de-
gree of saturation of the reference specimen (see
Part I).
(ix) Final density, water content and degree of satura-
tion of the test specimen after the swelling test.
(x) Test temperature.
(xi) Specifications of water used for immersion.
(xii) A plot of axial stress vs total axial strain similar
to Fig. 6. The plot has to distinguish between Aeo
[(6) in Fig. 6], which is the instantaneous strain
Conclusions
• Swelling tests have to be integrated with analysis and
design.
• The three methods are relatively simple and they have
been extensively used in practice.
Notes
!. For the purpose of these Suggested Methods, the
term "sample" refers to the drill core, block or other
representative piece of rock received in the laboratory,
while the term "specimen" refers to the individual test
specimen prepared from the sample.
2. Since nearly every institution working on swelling
rocks has developed its own apparatus for measuring the
swelling stress, the apparatus described here is only an
example. The advantage of this apparatus is the possibil-
ity to use steel rings of various diameters, depending on
the diameter of the specimen. This reduces time and
effort for preparation and lessens the risk of disturbing
the specimens.
3. Normally, load cells of a capacity of 20 kN and
deflecting less than 10-sin are suitable. For very high
425
E
'1
li~J c u r v e - Y ~ t
riO'
axial stress
Fig, 7. Axial stress vs swelling strain.
directly related to the axial stress decrement
through matrix deformation, and Ac [(7) in Fig.
6], which is the swelling strain caused by adsorp-
tion of water. The total strain is thus:
Acto, = AG + Ac
(xiii) A plot of axial stress vs swelling strain similar to
Fig. 7. This graph is obtained by plotting the
swelling strain, Ac for the corresponding stress
decrements. The resulting curve can be used to
estimate the potential swelling strains which need
to be considered in design.
• The methods relate to argillaceous swelling rock.
• Future development of laboratory testing will be
necessary, particularly in the direction of 3-D testing.
swelling stresses, load cells of 50 kN may be required.
The accuracy of 0.5% is related to the maximum rating
of the load cell.
4. Rapid changes in strain take place during the first
hours. Also, most of the changes usually occur within the
first few days, and the total test duration strongly
depends on the dimensions of the specimen. These facts
should be considered when scheduling the tests.
5. In all three tests, an alternative approach is to
remove a part of the specimen before oven drying to
determine its mineralogic composition. The mass M2 and
M3 determination (Parts 2 and 4) applies then to the
remainder of the specimen.
6. For details of calculation of density, water content,
degree of saturation, refer to [3].
426 ISRM: LABORATORY TESTING SUGGESTED METHODS
J

7. This apparatus represents a possible example. If the
swelling strain has to be measured in three directions the
specimens should preferably be cube shaped. It should
then be possible to mount the dial gauges (or equivalent)
in three directions.
8. A number of possibilities exist to conduct both
continuous and more precise measurements of radial
strain. Given the purpose of the free swell test, which is
to provide quick information on maximum swelling
strain, such sophistication is not justified.
9. Some argillaceous rocks may start to disintegrate
after a short period of immersion in water by developing
open fissures along their bedding planes. In such cases,
applying a small axial surcharge may be advisable.
10. The apparatus described here is essentially a
modified oedometer, as used in soil mechanics. The
difference and advantage of this particular apparatus is
the possibility to use steel rings of various diameters,
depending on the diameter of the specimen. This reduces
time and effort for specimen preparation and lessens the
risk of disturbing the specimen.
11. This procedure is expected to produce lower
bound swelling stresses for a particular swelling strain.
The method is appropriate for determining heave result-
ing from unloading.
12. For applications in which the stresss on the
swelling rock is lower than 25 kPa, such as foundations
of light buildings or excavated slopes, lower final loads
have to be selected.
REFERENCES
1. Characterization of Swelling Rock. ISRM Commission on Swelling
Rock, (October 1983).
2. ISRM Commission on Standardization of Laboratory and Field
Tests. Suggested Method for Determination of the Swelling Strain
Index For a Radially Confined Specimen with Axial Surcharge. In
Rock Characterization, Testing and Monitoring (E. T. Brown, Ed.),
Pergamon Press, Oxford (1981).
3. ISRM Commission on Standardization of Laboratory and Field
Tests. Suggested Methods for Determining Water Content, Poros-
ity, Density, Absorption and Related Properties and Swelling and
Slake Durability Index, Document No. 2, First Revision. In Rock
Characterization, Testing and Monitoring (E. T. Brown, Ed.),
Pergamon Press, Oxford (1981).

Appendix
Specimen Preparation For Rocks That Can Easily Break

(a) The intact specimen is trimmed into a sharp-edged, approx. trolled room using sharp and pointed (for instance, Bard-Parker
65 mm diameter and 20 mm tall highly-polished stainless-steel No. 10) stainless-steel surgical blades.
confining ring. The sample is hand-carved in a humidity-con- (b) A slice approx. 30 mm thick is to be cut flat from an undis-
turbed cylindrical (or block shaped) sample. If necessary, the
slice-ends are to be refinished flat and nearly parallel to each
other using a sharp, straight edge.
(c) The slice is to be placed and centred on the lower adapter of
a manual press (Fig. AI). The manual press is modified from
a U-116 Field Classification Tester (SOILTEST, INC.), using
two adapters and bearings so that the swelling rock slice can be
rotated freely during the trimming process.
© (d) After removing any rock from outside the ring, the trimming
ring is to be pressed down in small increments (generally less
I than 2 mm) using the manual press. Prior to each increment the
,2 part of the specimen just below the trimming ring is to be
handcarved as close as possible to the final dimension but
without undercutting, so that only a thin annular layer is
3 removed by the advancing ring. This is to be continued until the
specimen completely occupies the 20 mm high ring.
(e) The face of the specimen at the sharp end of the ring is to be
4 cut flat using a sharp, straight edge.
(f) For testing the specimen, height must be less than the ring
5
height. A spacer approx. 5 mm thick is to be placed against the
flat surface, and using the manual press the trimmed specimen
is pushed out in the direction opposite to the one it has been
pushed in.
(g) The specimen is then to be cut flat at this opposite end using
Fig. A I. (I), (.5) = bearings; (2) = upper adapter; (3) = trimming ring; a sharp straight edge as it extrudes out of the ring, such that
(4) = lower adapter; and (6) = specimen. the desired specimen thickness is reached.