摘要
Geotechnical properties of sedimentary rocks exposed along upper Egypt-Red Sea road were investigated to evaluate their geotechnical behavior. One of the most important aims of this work was to determine the engineering problems affected on the road due to the geotechnical behavior of the studied sedimentary rocks and to suggest the suitable solution. Specific weight, unconfined compressive strength, slaking durability and free swelling were measured. The results showed that the studied crystalline limestone, marly limestone and Issawia limestone had higher unconfined compressive strength values ranging from 34,184.00 kN/m2 to 42,602.00 kN/m2 and the studied shale, siltstone and coral reef had lower values ranging from 3,689.00 kN/m2 to 6,933.00 kN/m2. The results showed also that the studied shale, siltstone and mudstone had fast to very fast slaking rate and their slaking amount described as low to medium after Gamble＇s slake durability classification. Replacement and/or chemical stabilization （using lime and/or cement kiln dust） of the expansive sedimentary rocks （shale and mudstone） were recommended to reduce the swelling. Geophysical investigations including shallow seismic, microgravity and GPR （ground penetrating radar） were recommended to scan the sub-grade of the road at El Maaza plateau to determine possible other caves and large voids under the road to avoid its collapse.
