mylonieten

Mylonites are a type of metamorphic rock that forms as a result of the deformation of sediments or igneous rocks. The term "mylonite" was first used by the German geologist Horst J. Neumeier in the 1960s. Mylonites are characterized by their fine-grained, fibrous texture, which is produced when the rock is subjected to intense strain and dynamic recrystallization.

The formation of mylonites typically occurs in areas where rocks are subjected to tectonic forces, such as in zones of faulting or folding. In these regions, the rocks are compressed and sheared, causing the grains to break down and re-form into smaller, more plastically deformed crystals. This process can lead to the development of a wide range of textures and mineral compositions, depending on the original rock type and the conditions of deformation.

Mylonites are composed of a mixture of quartz, feldspar, and mica minerals, which are arranged in a characteristic foliated pattern. The intensity of the fabric, or the degree of alignment of the minerals, can provide valuable information about the tectonic history of a region. Mylonites are often found in association with zones of intense faulting and shearing, where the rocks have been subjected to high levels of strain and deformation.

The study of mylonites is an important aspect of structural geology, as it can provide insights into the tectonic history of a region and the processes that have shaped the Earth's crust over time. By analyzing the texture and mineral composition of mylonites, researchers can gain a better understanding of the complex processes that have formed the Earth's geological record.