An active debate is centered on a substantial disagreement concerning the importance of volume change in cleaved rock. The research integrates new methods of geochemical mapping with strain maps to determine the non-volatile element and volume changes in space cleavage in rocks. Major element compositional data will be acquired by an XRF macroprobe designed specifically for the purpose. The machine bridges the gap in analytical resolution between electron beam and whole rock XRF methods. Major element data will be converted into volume loss information by identifying insoluble elements and calculating volume equivalents. Strain maps will be constructed using established techniques such as pressure shadow incremental strains and center-to-center methods. Detailed samples from the Delaware Water Gap area of PA and NJ will be used to examine the variability of volume change within and between cleaved units of shale, carbonate and quartzite. The results will resolve important outstanding controversies concerning cleavage development in rocks.
