Carbonate rock is an important constituent of the Earth's crust and consequently finds itself ensconced in a number of common geophysical problems. Not only do faults traverse through carbonate material, but it is known to exist within socio-economically important volcanic settings (e.g. Mt. Etna volcano) and host substantial water, CO2, and hydrocarbon reserves. However, carbonate rock is a challenging material that (1) undergoes dissolution in water (influenced by temperature and pH), (2) displays retrograde solubility and (3) experiences decarbonation at high temperatures (>500°C). Furthermore, carbonates can develop pronounced strain portioning and heterogeneous assemblages of micro- and macro- structures that can have a significant impact on physical properties.


The aim of this session is to explore the mechanical deformation properties of carbonate rocks at shallow crustal levels, and how their physical properties, such as porosity, permeability, elastic moduli and strength for example, are modified as deformation progresses under a range of crustal conditions. We are keen to include papers on a range of diverse approaches (experimental, modelling, theoretical and field) and scientific disciplines (hydrologists, rock physicists, field geologists, numerical modellers, structural geologists for example).