Genetic classification of joints in chalk and their corresponding fracture characteristics

Joints representing different fracture episodes from Israeli chalks are being classified into three major tectonic stages in the Huttonian cycle. The three stages are: burial, syntectonic and uplift. Joint spacing, joint size and fracture surface morphology are among the criteria which are being used in this classification. New data on syntectonic joints from chalks in the Paris Basin are being presented. Characteristically, burial joints propagate horizontally, syntectonic fractures advance radially, and during the uplift stage fracture growth is vertically downward. -Author