Microstructure of deformation bands in porous sandstones at Arches National Park, Utah

At Arches National Park it is possible to distinguish three kinds of deformation bands on the basis of their distinctive microstructure: (1) deformation bands with little or no cataclasis; (2) deformation bands with cataclasis; and (3) deformation bands with clay smearing. The micromechanics of deformation band development consist of initial dilatancy followed by grain crushing and compaction. This process may be developed to different stages...