Microtectonics, deformation mechanisms and rheology of surface reaching salt extrusions, decoration of salt microstructures by gamma-irradiation

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The aim of this project is a better understanding of deformation mechanisms and rheology of salt glaciers by a detailed and systematic microstructural study of large number of salt samples collected on salt glaciers in Iran (zagros) which are probably still active (the Kuh-e-Namak and the Qum Kuh glaciers) . The goal is to quantify deformation mechanisms in different salt glacier rocks in order to understand the evolution of microstructures and salt flow at different structural levels. In order to decorate the microstructural features in salt specimens, gammairradiation will be used, which is a well established technique in the institute of the applicants. The technique is based on the inhomogeneous distribution of coloring after irradiating the samples with high doses of gamma-rays at approximately 100 ºC. Decorated thin sections show a surprisingly rich detail of microstructures (grain boundaries, subgrain boundaries, growth zonation) which can be used to infer deformation, recrystallization and fluid transport processes. We started using the technique in Aachen about five years ago and published a series of papers based on these results. Unfortunately, the unique irradiation facility at the Research Reactor in Jülich which was used to gamma-irradiate our samples is no longer available, although there is still a lot of potential for further research in this field. Therefore, we initiated cooperation with the Research Reactor in Munich. Here, we apply for funding to build a new sample container and obtain certification (TÜV).