Nonlinear elastic wave interaction in a sandstone bar: A summary of recent pulse-mode experiments

We have performed nonlinear pulse propagation experiments in a 3.8 cm diameter rod of Berea sandstone 1.8 m long at ambient conditions. Unlike earlier studies, we measured acceleration and not displacement. Moreover, we detected 2nd and 3rd harmonic growth at smaller strain amplitudes than were observed previously (10{sup {minus}7}). Harmonic growth at identical strain amplitudes has also been noted in resonance studies using the same rock type. Current measurements are underway with the rod in vacuum where the wave attenuation is less and the conditions can be carefully controlled. Ultimately, we wish to test the validity of current analytic and numerical models for nonlinear propagation in microcracked materials.