ISTOPore Seminar by Radoslav Hurtis

Abstract

The exposure of soluble rocks, such as salt, gypsum, or limestone, to fluid flow often leads to chemical interactions between the fluid and solid minerals. These interactions degrade the mechanical properties of the rock, resulting in the formation of distinct geomorphological patterns, including rillenkarren, tsingys, and scallops. This study focuses on the formation of scallops, cup-shaped depressions with sharp crests, that develop on dissolving rock surfaces. Using a micro-continuum modelling technique combined with a volume-of-solid approach for dissolution, we simulate and analyze 2-D pattern formation based on the characteristic material properties of salt. The results reveal tip-like patterns similar to those observed in natural settings and laboratory experiments. Additionally, we present 3-D numerical simulations that illustrate the early stages of pattern development on dissolving surfaces.