Investigation of Dimension Stone on the Island Brač—Geophysical Approach to Rock Mass Quality Assessment

Research identifies key geophysical thresholds for high-quality dimension stone quarrying on the island of Brač, crucial for preserving the historical integrity of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Split's Diocletian Palace. The study reveals that rock masses suitable for architectural stone must exhibit compressional seismic velocities over 3000 m/s, shear wave velocities above 1500 m/s, and electrical resistivity exceeding 3000 Ωm—factors significantly influenced by moisture content. Employing noninvasive methods such as MASW, SRS, ERT, and GPR, the research classifies rock mass quality into three categories, with GPR proving particularly effective in mapping fissured systems. These findings provide a scientific basis for sustainable quarrying practices that balance resource extraction with heritage conservation.

Jug, J., Grabar, K., Strelec, S., & Dodigović, F. (2020). Investigation of Dimension Stone on the Island Brač—Geophysical Approach to Rock Mass Quality Assessment. Geosciences, 10(3), 112. https://doi.org/10.3390/geosciences10030112