Wed 7th June @ noon, Rm 312.222

Abstract:

The formation of impact craters is a highly dynamic and complex process that subjects the impacted target rocks to numerous types of deformation mechanisms. Understanding and interpreting these styles of micro-, meso- and macroscale deformation has proved itself challenging for the field of structural geology. The presentation introduces to the structural inventory found in craters of all size ranges on Earth, and looks into the structures of craters on other planetary bodies. Structural features are discussed here that are caused by i) extremely high pressures and temperatures that occur during the initial passage of the shock wave through the target rock and projectile, ii) the resulting flow field in the target that excavates and ejects rock materials, and iii) the gravitationally induced modification of the crater cavity into the final crater form. A special focus is put on the effects that low-angle impacting bodies have on crater formation.

Short bio:

Dr Thomas Kenkmann holds a professorship position at the University of Freiburg. He is the head of department, Chair of Geology and Structural Geology at the University of Freiburg. He is also vice dean of the Environment and Natural Resources faculty. His research interests gravitate around the structural geology of impact craters (field work, remote sensing), the experimental study of rock deformation under static, dynamic and shock loading conditions and deformation microstructures.