ABSTRACT
The measurement of rock strength and characteristics of discontinuities (mainly fractures) are essential tasks in engineering constructions. In general, rock strength is defined as the ability to withstand stress or deformation; the quality of bodies by which they endure the application of force without breaking. In engineering terms, rock strength may be defined as the inherent strength of an isotropic rock under specific conditions – notably wet or dry. However rock masses are anisotropic and as a consequence, the strength of rocks is influenced both by the presence of impurities, weak zones and/or discontinuities (Hawkins 1998). Carbonate rocks represent large exposure of rock masses in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and are targeted in the study presented here.
