preparation of heterogeneous rock-like samples containing non-persistent notch; different layout

One of the most important tasks in conducting a laboratory research work is how to make the samples. the purpose of this research work is to create heterogeneous rock-like samples containing non-persistent notches. regarding that, the molds with dimensions of 250 mm x 200 mm x 50 mm are made. a mixture of plaster and water with different mixing percentages is used to make the heterogeneous samples. various techniques are also employed to create non-persistent notches on the samples. one of the methods to create a notch is to insert an aluminum blade into the groove of the mold, and finally, remove it after the plaster slurry has hardened. due to the displacement of the blade and its tilting during slurring, the notches are out of the vertical position. in addition to the mentioned method, other methods such as water jet, cutting by thread, cutting by diamond wire cutting, cutting by rotary saw, and using hand saw are applied. finally, using a hand saw to create a notch on the samples is chosen as the best method.