Applied and Computational Math Seminar: Analyzing the Microstructure of Flexible Sandstone using Topological Data Analysis

Speaker:Patrick O'Neil, Lead Data Scientist, Spaceflight Industries
Title: Analyzing the Microstructure of Flexible Sandstone using Topological Data Analysis

Abstract: Flexible quartzitic rocks have the remarkable property that they bend visibly under the influence of gravity. At the same time, they have enough strength that they do not crumble. The shape of the grains in these quartz-dominated rocks often resemble those in quartzites, but individual grains are easily detached, hence this class of flexible rocks are variably called flexible sandstones, flexible quartzites, or itacolumites after the locality where they were first described in Brazil. In this talk, we analyze the microstructure of flexible sandstone using methods from topological data analysis and propose an explanation for the flexible, yet strong, nature of this remarkable stone. 

Time: Friday, February 9, 2018, 1:30-2:30pm

Place: Exploratory Hall, Room 4106