Fractal analysis of thermally induced damage in volcanic rocks: Linking mechanical behavior and mineralogical controls

Abstract

Moderate thermal exposure can significantly influence the mechanical behavior of volcanic rocks by inducing microcrack development and altering crack network characteristics. However, quantifying such damage processes remains challenging when relying solely on conventional mechanical parameters. In this study, the evolution of crack network complexity in andesite and andesitic–basaltic rocks subjected to moderate thermal exposure (200 °C) is investigated using fractal analysis integrated with mechanical and mineralogical observations. Six core specimens were tested under uniaxial compression, including three natural specimens and three specimens thermally treated at 200 °C prior to loading. After failure, crack surfaces were digitized and fractal dimensions (D) were calculated using the box-counting method. Petrographic observations and X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) analyses were conducted to characterize the mineralogical composition and microstructural features controlling crack development. The results indicate that thermal exposure primarily reduces rock stiffness rather than peak strength. While the uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) of two specimens remains nearly unchanged after heating, the elastic modulus (E) decreases in all thermally treated specimens. Mineralogical observations reveal a heterogeneous volcanic fabric dominated by plagioclase and pyroxene within a fine-grained groundmass, with secondary calcite phases occurring in veins and pocket fillings. Fractal analysis shows generally lower D values in thermally treated specimens, suggesting crack redistribution and coalescence rather than increased network complexity, consistent with the observed reduction in stiffness and a tendency toward more ductile deformation behavior.