Test No. 109 - "Koolau Basalt Load Tests"
(Part 2)

June 14, 1977
Stewart Ct. Laboratory
Sunnyvale, Ca.
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PURPOSE:

To observe the effects of forced polarization (increased self-potential) upon load carrying capability.

PROCEDURE:

Normally, the self-potential of the Koolau rock is in the range from 300 to 500 mV. In this test, a higher voltage (700 mV) was obtained by forced polarization (30 minute charging by a 9 V battery). The polarizing circuit was then disconnected and the rock's emf was allowed to decay to a relatively stable bottom at approx. 700 mV.

Load tests were performed by 5-second shunting with resistors of progressively lower, then higher, values, as in Test No. 108.

Graphic - Output Graph: Full (5.3 Kb)

RESULTS:

Shown in the attached curve. Slight depolarization and loss of charge (during the 6-hour run) resulted in a 30 mV downward displacement between the beginning and ending of the test. Otherwise the curve has the same characteristics as that obtained at the lower (normal) voltage.

Graphic - Output Graph: Thumb (11.2 Kb) Full (117.6 Kb)

CONCLUSIONS:

Load-carrying characteristics are unaffected by output voltage.