Subcritical crack propagation in rocks: theory, experimental results and applications

Abstract The micromechanisms of tensile fracture are reviewed, with particular emphasis on the influence of chemical effects on fracture controlled by pre-existing cracks (stress corrosion). A fracture mechanism map for quartz is presented which was constructed using a combination of theoretical insights and experimental data. The manner in which stress corrosion will modify the predictions of fracture mechanism maps is discussed by reviewing the numerous theories of stress corrosion. Experimental data are presented on stress corrosion in tensile deformation of quartz, quartz rocks, calcite rocks, basaltic rocks, granitic rocks and other geological materials. Although the experimental evidence for stress corrosion is overwhelming, very few data were obtained under conditions that simulate those in the bulk of the earth's crust and so the extent of its geophysical significance is yet to be fully established. Examples are given, however, of how invoking stress corrosion as a rate-controlling deformation mechanism sheds new light on extremely diverse geophysical phenomena, such as: predicting the strength and sliding friction properties of rocks, modelling earthquake rupture, the stability of hot, dry-rock geothermal reservoirs, stimulation of oil and gas reservoirs, the crack-seal mechanism of rock deformation and low stress dilatancy, fracture mechanics of lunar rocks, magmatic intrusions and the relaxation of internal stresses in rock.