Transformation of clay minerals and its implications for faulting

Abstract

Amorphous nanoparticles on the slip surface have been paid much attention since they give significant influences on the frictional properties. They are considered to be formed by combined processes including mechanical, chemical and thermal ones. It is well known that clay minerals are easily transformed into amorphous materials mechanochemically by grinding. We performed experimental studies on amorphization of clay minerals including kaolinite and saponite.