The Water Content Test determines the natural moisture present within a rock specimen, expressed as a percentage of its dry mass. This value serves as a critical indicator of the rock's saturation level and its potential response to environmental loading.
In many rock types, particularly sedimentary varieties like shale or sandstone, water content is the primary factor that reduces effective strength. Moisture acts as both a lubricant and a chemical agent, accelerating the degradation of rock minerals.
Our laboratory methodology ensures that rock cores are sealed immediately upon extraction in the field to preserve their insitu moisture state. By comparing the natural mass to the oven-dry mass, we provide the True Water Content, allowing your design team to account for reduced strength and increased compressibility in saturated bedrock formations.