It is well-known that the indentation hardness property is influenced by micro-fabric characteristics. The effect of textural characteristics on Vickers indentation hardness is attempted to be interpreted in this research. For this purpose, 12 fresh limestone samples from various quarries were tested to determine the Vickers hardness. Thereafter, quantitative textural parameters were identified and characterized using image processing techniques and micro-fabric analysis based on microphotographs of thin sections. Microphotographs of the thin sections were reviewed and digital boundaries of the grains were clarified and drawn. After preparation and filtering of the digitized thin sections, four basic properties of each grain, including maximum diameter, minimum diameter, area, and perimeter, were calculated with the ImageJ software. These parameters were then analyzed statistically and used to obtain seven indices, including equivalent diameter, grain compactness, shape factor, aspect ratio, grain interlocking index, grain size homogeneity, and texture coefficient. Experimental equations were developed and the results showed that Vickers indentation hardness was strongly influenced by textural properties. In addition, it was found that in the studied limestones, the three parameters of grain size, aspect ratio, and texture coefficient have the greatest effect on Vickers hardness.
- Aspect Ratio,
- Grain Size,
- Imagej Software,
- Textural Characteristics,
- Vickers Indentation Hardness
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