Propiedades físico – mecánicas de las principales rocas ornamentales de la provincia de Loja y su aplicación en acabados de vivienda

Abstract

The ornamental use of stone in construction is widespread, especially in coatings. In the Loja city 32% of the buildings use the natural stone in facade finishes, enclosures and in the conformation of exterior floors and planters; While 18% use materials that mimic the textures of these rocks. This research includes a study of the mechanical properties of ornamental rocks of the province of Loja to know their characteristics and propose uses in finishing houses; previous geological studies have identified deposits in some cantons, but do not specify the quality of the materials that make them; this fact constitutes the starting point of the present work. Laboratory tests were carried out to determine the physical-mechanical characteristics of five different samples: Andesite, Granodiorite, Limestone, Volcanic Conglomerate and Calcite Lutita. After comparing the results of the tests with the international regulations, suitable uses and applications of the studied rocks are proposed, since their characteristics determine the use in interior and exterior coatings, floors or walls not bearing ornamental character.