Experimental studies of deformation mechanisms and microstructures in quartzo-feldspathic rocks

Abstract

Experimental rock deformation studies provide two kinds of information. First, they provide information which will help to interpret the preserved micro- and macroscale structures in naturally deformed rocks, in terms of the P and T conditions of deformation, the flow stresses and finite strains, and whether the deformation was brittle or ductile, seismic or aseismic. Second they provide data which can be used in predictive modelling of the thermomechanical evolution of structures on various scales, ranging from single faults and folds to plate boundaries to whole mantle convection. In all cases the usefulness of the experimental studies depends on a demonstration that, despite large differences in strain rate, the same processes have operated in both the experimental and the natural deformations.