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Sliding and Healing of Frictional Interfaces That Appear Stationary

Frictional interfaces are found in systems ranging from biological joints to earthquake faults. When and how these interfaces slide is a fundamental problem in geosciences and engineering. It is commonly assumed that there exists a threshold shear force, called static friction, below which the interface is stationary, despite many studies suggesting that this concept is outdated. In contrast, rate-and-state friction (RSF) formulations predict that interfaces are always sliding, but this feature is often considered an artifact that calls for modifications. Here, we show that nominally stationary interfaces subjected to constant shear and normal loads, with a driving force that is significantly below the classically defined static friction where creep is known to occur, are indeed sliding, albeit with diminishingly small rates down to 10^-12m/s. Our precise measurements directly at the interface are enabled by Digital Image Correlation. Such behavior contradicts classical models of friction but confirms the prediction of RSF. The diminishing slip rates of nominally stationary interfaces reflect interface healing, which would manifest itself in higher peak friction in subsequent slip events, such as earthquakes and landslides, significantly modifying their nucleation and propagation and hence their hazard.

Session: Predictability of Seismic and Aseismic Slip: From Basic Science to Operational Forecasts [Poster]

Type: Poster

Room: Exhibit Hall

Date: 4/16/2025

Presentation Time: 08:00 AM (local time)

Presenting Author: Krittanon Sirorattanakul

Student Presenter: No

Invited Presentation: 

Poster Number: 46

Additional Authors