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Observation of the Kaiser Effect Using Noble Gas Release Signals

Bauer, Stephen J.

The Kaiser effect is a stress memory phenomenon which has most often been demonstrated in rock using acoustic emissions. During cyclic loading–unloading–reloading, the acoustic emissions are near zero until the load exceeds the level of the previous load cycle. Researchers explore the Kaiser effect in rock using real-time noble gas release. Laboratory studies using real-time mass spectrometry measurements during deformation have quantified, to a degree, the types of gases released, degree, the types of gases released (Bauer et al. 2016a, b), their release rates and amounts during deformation, estimates of permeability created from pore structure modifications during deformation and the impact of mineral plasticity upon gas release. Its observed that noble gases contained in brittle crystalline rock are readily released during deformation.