Presentations in the field of geomechanics and rock physics on theory and simulations, instrumentation, laboratory experiments and field measurements, data analysis and interpretation, as well as inversion and modelling techniques.

The directionality of linked physical properties such as elasticity, strength and permeability related to stresses, strains and pore pressures, makes crustal systems inherently complicated. Many of the most interesting rock behaviours derive from tensorial quantities, however our understanding of the linking maths and physics behind these quantities requires further improvement. A future goal must be to develop meaningful and testable methods and models that will allow us to quantify the relationships between these anisotropic, coupled variables in order to unravel the complex evolution and dynamics of the Earth’s crust.

In this session we aim to bring together researchers working on problems related to the characterisation of rocks at different scales with a focus on quantifying the anisotropy of physical properties in a range of crustal environments.

Results are applied to problems such as understanding gas and magma movement and hydrothermal systems at volcanoes or fluid pressure and damage evolution within fault zones and landslides.