Resumo (PT):
Abstract (EN):
The use and application of natural stones depends on many aspects that involve not only their
lithologies, physical-mechanical properties and chemical composition, but also take in
consideration aesthetic, social, cultural and economic criteria.
It is possible to establish a classification of natural stones based upon the variables listed
above, and thus build an information matrix in which the lines identify each of the lithotypes
and the columns refer to the different properties (some of a quantitative nature and others of a
qualitative nature).
In this work, we propose to illustrate a methodology that, using techniques in the field of
multivariate statistics (Correspondence Analysis), and according to the criteria defined at the
outset, allows different users of natural stones to select alternatives to the use of a lithotype,
replacing it by another that corresponds to all the previously defined multi-criteria.
Our case study was based on data presented in the 142 technical sheets, which make up the 4
volumes of the Portuguese Natural Stones Catalogue, (Laboratory of the General Directorate
of Geology and Mines, S. Mamede de Infesta, 1983, 1984, 1985 and 1994). The values of
nine physical-mechanical properties, the percentages of oxides of major elements determined
in the chemical analysis and the macroscopic description were the variables considered for
this statistical analysis.
Keywords: Natural Stones; Correspondence Analysis, Physical-mechanical Properties,
Chemical Analysis, Lithological Description
Language:
English
Type (Professor's evaluation):
Scientific
Contact:
jgois@fe.up.pt
License type: