Determination of the interrelations between the engineering parameters of construction aggregates from ophiolite complexes of Greece using factor analysis

The goal of this paper is to investigate the interrelations between the engineering parameters of construction aggregates from Greece using R-mode factor analysis. The studied samples include ophiolitic lithotypes from the Pindos, Vourinos, Koziakas and Othrys ophiolites, as well as two trachytes from the Domokos locality. They show various degrees of hydrothermal alteration and tectonic deformation. Factor analysis indicated a great number of interdependences between their physical, geometrical, mechanical and physicochemical properties. Based on the diagrammatic representation of factor scores, the samples are grouped into: (i) ultramafic rocks, (ii) highly serpentinized and tectonized ultramafic rocks, (iii) troctolites, (iv) dolerites–diorites, and (v) trachytes. The results imply that factor analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of the way that the strength properties of aggregates change in-service.