PRF2022 was a 5-day, NSF-sponsored, GSA Penrose Conference dedicated to bringing together - in person - scientists from Rock Physics, Surface Processes, Soil Science, Stone Heritage, Critical Zone Sciences, Planetary Sciences and Geoengineering discliplines in order to open new doors to a myriad of concepts, applications and validations of all geologic work related to rock fracture.

Specifically, we are leading PRF2022 under the assertion that all natural Earth and planetary surface systems - as well as multifarious constituents of the built environment - are  intimately tied to the progressive - subcritical - growth of fractures in rock.  We are excited to discuss and debate this idea and its ramifications to a wide range of research topics. 

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To further foster a sense of belonging at the conference, we will implement a mentoring scheme in advance of the conference.

The conference will also host an artist-in-residence - Melissa Riker dancer and choreographer.

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Field, laboratory and modeling approaches are all encouraged.

We welcome a full range of

abstract topics -

including but not limited to:

• Climate/Environmental dependence of fracture

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• Fracturing Processes: theory and observations
   

• Landforms, erosion, and/or landscape evolution tied to rock fracture, including:  Rivers, Arches, Erosion Rates, Landslides/Rockfalls, Planetary Processes, Hillslopes

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• Geotechnical issues related to rock fracture

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• Crack-tip chemo-physical processes of subcritical fracture.
   

• Building stone preservation related to rock fracture and vice versa

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• Fracture and stresses related to Topography/Tectonics/Gravity
   

• Fracture and Stresses related to climate, freezing, thermal conditions,  biological processes, salts, chemical Processes
   

• Natural Hazards related to rock fracture

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The PRF2022 Conference has ended!

PRF2022 was located at the Highland Lake Inn and Resort,  in Flatrock, NC, USA,

June 20-24th, 2022.

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PRF2022 comprised a 5-day conference of 80+ interdisciplinary, world-wide scientists hailing from countries including New Zealand, Italy, UK, France, and Chile as well as an Artist in Residence from the Kinesis Project, an NYC  & Seattle Based Dance Company

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PRF Dancing

Melissa Riker - the Kinesis Project Dance Theater -  has held several performances in NYC based on her collaborations with PRF scientists and as Artist-in-Residence at the conference. Here is a video clip from one of the performances. Enjoy!! 

Conference Program

The full PRF2022 Conference Program will be made publically available starting in January 2023.

Stay tuned here for a link.

If you are interested in joining the listserve that will serve conference attendees as well as anyone interested in Progressive Rock Failure, please contact us with the form below. 

PRF Listserve