Shock-related processes in planetary materials: Earth and beyond

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This research will explore the interaction of shock waves with solid materials via three approaches: (1) laboratory experiments using light gas gun technology; (2) terrestrial impact structures; and (3) extraterrestrial samples from the Moon, Mars and asteroids (i.e., meteorites and Apollo lunar sample returns). The interaction of shock waves with solid media remains relatively poorly understood, especially for polyphase materials. Shock processes have been fundamental in building our Solar System via hypervelocity impact; they remain an important contributor to the surface condition of many planetary bodies today. It is especially at the microscopic scale that heterogeneities in shock wave structure are manifest as modifications to rock texture and mineralogy. The proposed research will explore these effects using natural and synthetic samples and laboratory experiments. In the last 6 years, the applicant has established a high-speed impact facility at the University of New Brunswick. It comprises two light gas guns, which can achieve velocities of 8 km/s. This enables us to replicate shock effects under controlled conditions to