Influence of rock moisture on rock weathering processes along the Victoria Land Coast, Antarctica

The role of moisture in the weathering of rock at four locations along the Victoria Land Coast, Antarctica was investigated. These locations were Victoria Valley, Gneiss Point, Terra Nova Bay and Teall Island. The primary objective of this research is to improve our understanding of rock weathering processes, and their effectiveness, along a moisture gradient on the Victoria Land Coast. An improved understanding of both the processes involved and the rate at which rock weathering occurs will contribute to our understanding of landscape evolution and soil development, as well as some possible effects of climate change. Field measurements were made to provide data to determine the temperature and moisture regimes of each location which will then be used to simulate the respective rock micro-climates and apply these to rock samples in an environmental cabinet (laboratory). Field data includes: surface and sub-surface rock temperature, surface and sub-surface rock moisture content, rock strength (using a Schmidt hammer and a ultrasonic device), measurements of solar radiation, albedo of the rocks and position of shadows, weather measurements including air temperature, air pressure, relative humidity, wind speed and direction, cloud cover, visibility and precipitation conditions, a general description of the area and relevant features, and digital images of the rock surfaces. The processes operating at each site were determined by developing an algorithm and applying the gathered data. Rock samples were collected and used in laboratory simulations. A mathematical model was developed that will predict changes in weathering rate depending on changes in moisture in the rock. Rock samples were also analysed for their mineral and chemical composition.