Experimental studies of the high temperature deformation of single and polyphase aggregates of feldspar and quartz are essential for providing mechanical data for mid to lower crustal rocks, and for allowing interpretations of mechanisms and conditions of deformation from preserved microstructures. Feldspars constitute the most abundant phase in the crust, but their refractory nature and chemical and structural complexity. The PIs will build on their experence in this area, and conduct experimental studies of high temperature deformation of feldspars, complemented by detailed optical and transmission electron miroscopic characterization.
