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The High Pressures & Temperatures

Rock Deformation Lab

In the Rock Deformation laboratory at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev we study the dynamic processes in Earth's layers, from the shallow crust to the deep mantle.

Using various state-of-the-art experimental and analytical tools we explore the micro- and nano-scales and the underlying physics of deformation of geo-materials. These deformation processes bear important implications for The behavior of geological faults, Earthquakes and the seismic cycle, Evolution of the lithosphere and rigid tectonic plates, Mantle flow, and regions of plates interaction as in plate collision or divergence (e.g., subduction zones and continantal rift).

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THE RESEARCH

The Earth is a dynamic body with active plate tectonics, mechanically and compositionally stratified layers, and regions of decoupling between adjacent rock bodies. The research at the Rock Deformation Lab at the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev is focused on the diverse mechanical response of different minerals under a wide range of pressure and temperature conditions and their imprint on the rock’s microstructure. Through the mechanical and microstructural data, we wish to understand the underlying physics of large-scale processes such as the slip-along faults and the seismic cycle and flow of rocks at large depths within the Earth (i.e., creep, aseismic flow).

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3-D Electron Backscatter Diffraction of a peridotite mantle sample from Wyoming, USA (LabDCT technology at Xnovo Technology)

We're looking for motivated students to join our team! If you're interested please contact us.

THE LAB

The new-generation solid-medium apparatus (Griggs-type) for the deformation of rocks simulating conditions down to ~100 km depth (temperatures up to 1300°C and pressures up to 3 GPa). 

Group pictures

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2022

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2021

2020

2019

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