<p>The knowledge gap regarding carbonate rock behavior in tectonically complex terrains has not been extensively addressed in northeastern Morocco. This study investigates the geological, petrographic, tectonic, and physico-mechanical properties of Pliensbachian limestone from the Jbel Tirremi quarry. The tectonic setting is characterized by an east–west (N70°–90°) fault network, which influences massif structure but appears not to compromise the sampled horizon. Based on five samples, the results suggest that this limestone may be suitable for construction applications, with low porosity (≤ 2.2%), average density (~ 2.7 t/m<sup>3</sup>), high durability (96.1–98.3%), LA coefficient (12–20%), MDE coefficient (12–24%), UCS (55.35–65.90&#xa0;MPa), and Is50 (5.25–6.25&#xa0;MPa). Petrographic analysis reveals a micritic limestone with no microcracks. A preliminary environmental impact assessment based on field observations and literature evaluates potential effects of quarrying. This approach offers a potential framework for sustainable geo-resource development in fractured terrains.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p> <p>The graphical abstract presents a systematic, four-step integrated workflow designed to evaluate the suitability of Pliensbachian limestone from the Jbel Tirremi quarry (Eastern Morocco) for sustainable construction applications. Step 1 (Geological Context) establishes the foundational framework, detailing the lithological and structural characteristics (including fault systems), and the Petrographic properties of the rock are fundamental factors in rock quality and heterogeneity. Step 2 (Mechanical Performance) summarizes the core experimental from mechanical tests, such as Los Angeles (LA) and Micro-Deval (MDE) abrasion coefficients. The obtained low wear and impact values confirm the limestone’s strong mechanical durability and resistance to fragmentation, validating its engineering performance. Step 3 (Construction Suitability) translates these validated properties into practical applications, demonstrating the material’s appropriateness for use as building dimension stone and as high-quality aggregate in road base layers. Finally, Step 4 (Environmental &amp; Socio-Economic Integration) presents the outcomes of the environmental impact assessment, indicating predominantly minor to moderate ecological effects associated with quarry operations, counterbalanced by positive socio-economic contributions to the local community. This visual summary is crucial for several reasons. It serves as a pivotal entry point into the research, enabling rapid comprehension of the multidisciplinary methodology and core findings. By guiding the reader through a logical progression from geological analysis to engineering validation and finally to environmental assessment, the graphical abstract emphasizes the holistic, integrative nature of the study. It effectively communicates how geological understanding directly informs engineering performance, while simultaneously grounding these applications within a framework of environmental responsibility. Ultimately, this tool enhances the accessibility and visibility of the research, promoting the dissemination of knowledge and supporting the sustainable utilization of local geo-resources within the scope of Earth Systems and Environment.</p>

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Multi-Analytical Characterization of Pliensbachian Limestone from Jbel Tirremi (Eastern Morocco): A Pathway to Sustainable Construction Materials

  • Mohammed Cherai,
  • Larbi Rddad,
  • Hafida Dahmani,
  • Mohamed Jadid

摘要

The knowledge gap regarding carbonate rock behavior in tectonically complex terrains has not been extensively addressed in northeastern Morocco. This study investigates the geological, petrographic, tectonic, and physico-mechanical properties of Pliensbachian limestone from the Jbel Tirremi quarry. The tectonic setting is characterized by an east–west (N70°–90°) fault network, which influences massif structure but appears not to compromise the sampled horizon. Based on five samples, the results suggest that this limestone may be suitable for construction applications, with low porosity (≤ 2.2%), average density (~ 2.7 t/m3), high durability (96.1–98.3%), LA coefficient (12–20%), MDE coefficient (12–24%), UCS (55.35–65.90 MPa), and Is50 (5.25–6.25 MPa). Petrographic analysis reveals a micritic limestone with no microcracks. A preliminary environmental impact assessment based on field observations and literature evaluates potential effects of quarrying. This approach offers a potential framework for sustainable geo-resource development in fractured terrains.

Graphical Abstract

The graphical abstract presents a systematic, four-step integrated workflow designed to evaluate the suitability of Pliensbachian limestone from the Jbel Tirremi quarry (Eastern Morocco) for sustainable construction applications. Step 1 (Geological Context) establishes the foundational framework, detailing the lithological and structural characteristics (including fault systems), and the Petrographic properties of the rock are fundamental factors in rock quality and heterogeneity. Step 2 (Mechanical Performance) summarizes the core experimental from mechanical tests, such as Los Angeles (LA) and Micro-Deval (MDE) abrasion coefficients. The obtained low wear and impact values confirm the limestone’s strong mechanical durability and resistance to fragmentation, validating its engineering performance. Step 3 (Construction Suitability) translates these validated properties into practical applications, demonstrating the material’s appropriateness for use as building dimension stone and as high-quality aggregate in road base layers. Finally, Step 4 (Environmental & Socio-Economic Integration) presents the outcomes of the environmental impact assessment, indicating predominantly minor to moderate ecological effects associated with quarry operations, counterbalanced by positive socio-economic contributions to the local community. This visual summary is crucial for several reasons. It serves as a pivotal entry point into the research, enabling rapid comprehension of the multidisciplinary methodology and core findings. By guiding the reader through a logical progression from geological analysis to engineering validation and finally to environmental assessment, the graphical abstract emphasizes the holistic, integrative nature of the study. It effectively communicates how geological understanding directly informs engineering performance, while simultaneously grounding these applications within a framework of environmental responsibility. Ultimately, this tool enhances the accessibility and visibility of the research, promoting the dissemination of knowledge and supporting the sustainable utilization of local geo-resources within the scope of Earth Systems and Environment.