On the nomenclature of mode of failure transitions in rocks

doi:10.1016/0040-1951(86)90153-8

Tectonophysics

Volume 122, Issues 3–4, 15 February 1986, Pages 381-387

https://doi.org/10.1016/0040-1951(86)90153-8 Get rights and content

Abstract

Attention is drawn to the increasing identification in the geological literature of the concept of ductility with a particular mechanism of rock deformation, namely intracrystalline plasticity. It is argued here that “ductility” only describes the capacity of a material to deform to a substantial strain without the tendency to localize the flow into bands (faults), and should not have a mechanistic connotation. A simple diagrammatic visualization of the concepts of mode-of-failure transitions is proposed.

By force of repetition, the depth in the Earth to the seismic—aseismic transition is being regarded as a brittle—ductile transition in the sense of a brittle—plastic transition. This tendency is criticized and it is suggested that the nomenclature of mode of failure of rocks be rationalized, in the face of growing prospects of imprecision and misunderstandings of the communication of data and ideas.

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Letter sectionOn the nomenclature of mode of failure transitions in rocks

Abstract

Tectonophysics

Tectonophysics

J. Struct. Geol.

The brittle—ductile transition in rocks

J. Geophys. Res.

Stress and temperature in the bending lithosphere as constrained by experimental rock mechanics

Geophys. J. R. Astron. Soc.

The low temperature brittle—ductile transition in a quartzite and the occurrence of cataclastic flow in nature

Geol. Rundsch.

Tectonics of slow spreading mid-ocean ridges and consequences of a variable depth to the brittle—ductile transition

Tectonics

Transition from brittle fracture to ductile flow in Solnhofen Limestone as a function of temperature, confining pressure and interstitial fluid pressure

Mem. Geol. Soc. Am.

Extensional Orogens

Tectonics

The Snake Range decollement; an exhumed mid-Tertiary brittle—ductile transition

Tectonics

Letter section
On the nomenclature of mode of failure transitions in rocks