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Polygonal Cracks in Bhuban Sandstones of Surma Basin, North East India

  • Research Articles
  • Published:
Journal of the Geological Society of India

Abstract

A crack system found developed on the surface of sandstone belonging to Bhuban Formation of Surma Group near Vanchengpui village in Mizoram. These polygonal crack system with circular or disc shape cracks overlapping one another are the conspicuous characteristic feature representing their process of formation. The crack system is developed on the domal surface of the exposed bed-rock and are limited to the top thin layer. The thickness of crack bearing layer varies from 3 to 13 cm and the cracks maintain perpendicular relationship with the slope surfaces. Field investigations and analysis of the crack present in the area reveals that the crack system developed in the sandstone are due to weathering processes coupled with compressive stresses.

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Acknowledgements

This study was financially supported by Directorate of Science & Technology (formerly Mizoram Council of Science & Technology), Government of Mizoram to Dr. Laldinpuia, vide Sanction Order No. F.20016/2/2011-MSC; Dated: 31st May, 2012. Authors are grateful to the Director, DST, Govt. of Mizoram for the financial support. Our sincere mention also goes to Late Thanglianchhunga and Mr. Lalnunzira, Laboratory Assistant, Department of Geology, Pachhunga University College for their support during the field work. This paper is dedicated to Late Thanglianchhunga who passed away on 12th November, 2019. We appreciate the suggestions and constructive comments of the editors and reviewers that substantially improved the manuscript.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Geology, Pachhunga University College, Aizawl, 796 001, India

    V. Vanthangliana, Lal Dinpuia, Saitluanga Sailo, H. Lawmkima, Lalhming Sangi & Bubul Bharali

  2. Department of Environmental Studies, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong, 793 022, India

    Devesh Walia

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  1. V. Vanthangliana
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  2. Lal Dinpuia
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Correspondence to Bubul Bharali.

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Vanthangliana, V., Dinpuia, L., Walia, D. et al. Polygonal Cracks in Bhuban Sandstones of Surma Basin, North East India. J Geol Soc India 95, 566–570 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12594-020-1483-3

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