Healing of Crystal-Rich Granular Materials in Volcanic Environments by Solid-State Sintering - Implications for Fluid Flow, Deformation and Explosivity

Explore the impact of solid-state sintering on volcanic systems in this lecture by Dr. Amy Ryan from the University of Minnesota. Delve into the mechanisms that create and destroy permeable pathways in volcanic environments, and their influence on eruptive behavior. Examine field and experimental studies supporting the occurrence of solid-state sintering on timescales relevant to volcanic activity. Learn about a quantitative model predicting time-dependent density evolution due to solid-state sintering and its application in determining porosity and permeability reduction timescales. Discover how simultaneous densification and lithification affect fluid flow and modulate eruptive behavior, potentially promoting cyclical explosivity. Gain insights into the complex interplay between magmatic gases, permeable pathways, and volcanic eruptions.