Digital image correlation–based analysis of hygroscopic expansion in Herrnholz granite

Groundwater-induced deformation of natural rock slopes is typically interpreted to be related to changes in pore pressure. Rock, however, is a porous medium that has been shown to expand on contact with water. Here, we present insights into surface deformation of free-standing 115 × 65 × 35 mm granite prisms with water continuously infiltrating from the upper surface over 16 – 24 hours under ambient laboratory environmental conditions. Digital...