Experiments on permeability characteristics of grotto sandstone after temperature cycling

The rock mass of grotto temples, exposed year round, is influenced by natural factors, especially temperature fluctuations and water seepage, which change the rock ’s physical properties. This paper investigates the permeability characteristics of Dazu grotto sandstone(Chongqing) after multiple heating-cooling cycles. Permeability tests are conducted under various conditions, such as cycle frequency, high temperature exposure durations, and cooling methods. Results show that sandstone permeability increases with heating-cooling cycles, influenced by the number of cycles and cooling methods. High permeability pressure also reduces sandstone’s compressive strength compared to low permeability pressure.