How is the hardness of a conglomerate rock determined?

Geologists do not rank rocks as to hardness, only minerals are considered to have a "hardness" designation. If you are asking as to competency of a stone to withstand impact, weathering or abrasion that would be something different, and a highly variable one, being dependent on the specific unit rather ... read more

Rocks are rated on the on the Moh's Hardness Scale which rates the rocks on the scale from 1 to 10. Rocks with hardness 1-3 are soft rocks from 3-6 are medium hardness rocks and 6-10 are hard rocks. The hardness of Conglomerate is 2-3 whereas its compressive strength is Not Available. read more

1.1 This test method covers the testing apparatus, sampling, test specimen preparation, and testing procedures for determining the rebound hardness number of rock material using a spring-driven steel hammer, referred to variously as a rebound hammer, impact test hammer, or concrete test hammer. read more