Elastic wave velocity, porosity, and pore geometry of ordinary chondrites and artificially shocked samples

Elastic wave velocity, bulk density, and derived elastic moduli assist in constraining parameters involved in the modelling of collisions on meteorite parent bodies. Meteorite physical properties are influenced by porosity and pore geometry; this thesis presents a pore classification scheme for meteorites and examines the effects of pore geometry on elastic and physical properties. Elastic wave velocity trends in ordinary chondrites have been documented by Hons (2004) and additional meteorite physical property trends have been documented in the literature. Trends documented in the literature were confirmed in this study and five new bulk density, elastic wave velocity, and physical property trends were identified. Some of the porosity found in meteorites may have been induced by impacts on the parent body. The elastic wave velocity modifications associated with impact induced fracturing was investigated through comparison of fracture density and orientation with elastic wave velocity anomalies in artificially shocked samples.