Authors' Reply to Discussion by R. Goktan on "ISRM Suggested Method for determining the Shore Hardness value for rocks" by R. Altindag, A. Guney, International Journal of Rock Mechanics and Mining Sciences, 2006; 43 : 19-22

Abstract

The authors appreciate the Discussion comments by Dr. Göktan and his interest in the new ISRM Suggested Method. As is known, the Shore Hardness (SH), as one of the physical properties of rocks, is widely employed to describe the hardness of rocks and the testing procedure requires that at least 20 measurements should be implemented at different points on the testing surface of the sample. Rocks are composed of a matrix with grains of the kind or of different minerals and a bonding material. Therefore, SH measurements even on the same surface of a rock sample may give different results if the rock consists of different minerals. This plays a significant role, as stated by Dr. Göktan, in the determination of the SH values. In addition, mineral grain size, degree of cementing, rock density, porosity, etc. also influence SH measurements.