An experimental approach to lithification textures

Abstract

ALTHOUGH observations on changes taking place during the compression of monominerals have been published^1–3, little or no information exists on the textural aspects of compression affecting granular sediments. The main reason for this lack of textural information is presumably a technical problem. Ever since the pioneering investigations conducted by Bridgman, equipment used in high pressure experiments in geology has consisted of hydraulic cylinders in combination with completely closed, thin-walled test-tube bombs compressed by the surrounding oil in the hydraulic system^4,5. The triaxial cell used in tectonic studies, allowing control over the three stress directions, uses massive samples jacketed to prevent the pressure medium from direct contact with the sample⁴. Triaxial studies have been performed only with massive samples, that is, already lithified rocks. No tests have yet been described involving thin sectioned samples of granular sediments subject to compression. Essentially, such experiments would reveal the mechanical aspects of the burial of natural sediment.