Pseudotachylites Generated in Shock Experiments: Implications for Impact Cratering Products and Processes

Laboratory hypervelocity impact experiments in which quartz was shock-loaded from 42 to 56 gigapascals imply that type A pseudotachylites form by strain heating and contribute to the loss of strength of rocks in the central uplift of large impact structures. Shock impedance-matched aluminum sample containers, in contrast to steel containers, produced nearly single-wave pressure loading, and enhanced deformation, of silicate samples. Strain heating may act with shock heating to devolatilize planetary materials and destroy extraterrestrial organic material in an impact.