Federal Project Grant Award Summary

The University of Illinois received a $425,179 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation's Division of Earth Sciences under the Geosciences program (CFDA 47.050), awarded April 15, 2026, with completion targeted for March 31, 2029. This research initiative addresses fundamental gaps in earthquake science by investigating how temperature, fluid chemistry, and surface roughness influence frictional strength along calcite—a common mineral found in fault systems. The project will deliver laboratory experimental results, interfacial property measurements, and a kinetic friction model that bridges nano- and macroscale frictional behavior in hydrothermal conditions. These research products will advance understanding of fault processes governing earthquake initiation and propagation, ultimately supporting more reliable seismic hazard prediction.

The project will generate peer-reviewed scientific findings and experimental data characterizing how pressure solution, plastic creep, and contact aging mechanisms operate under controlled hydrothermal conditions on calcite crystal surfaces. Beyond direct research outputs, the award supports workforce development through training of one graduate student and several undergraduate students in geoscience research methods and earthquake science. Conducted at the University of Illinois's Urbana campus, this work directly supports the Geosciences program's mission to expand fundamental knowledge of integrated Earth systems through basic research in earth sciences.