Properties of Sandstone (Soft)
Soft sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed primarily of sand-sized grains of mineral, rock, or organic material that have been compacted and cemented together. What makes it “soft” is its relatively low degree of hardness and resistance to abrasion. Soft sandstone can be easily carved, cut, or eroded by natural forces, making it a popular material for construction, sculptures, and decorative purposes.
The following table provides a comprehensive list of soft sandstone properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units at normal temperature and pressure (NTP).
Click on the icon to switch between Metric and Imperial units.
| Physical Properties | Metric |
|---|---|
| Density | 1600 - 2000 kg/m3 |
| Mechanical Properties | Metric |
| Young’s Modulus (E) | 0.98 GPa |
| Compressive Strength | 7.8 - 16 MPa |
| Modulus of Rupture | 2.5 MPa |
| Thermal Properties | Metric |
| Thermal Conductivity | 1.0 - 1.3 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity (Cp) | 728 J/kg·K |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion (αL) | 5.0×10-6 - 1.9×10-5 1/°C |
| Electrical Properties | Metric |
| Electrical Resistivity | 104 - 105 Ω·cm |
Unless stated otherwise, all values are taken at room temperature (approximately 20°C or 68°F) and 1 atm pressure. (1 atm = 101,325 Pa)