Cataclasite is a type of fault rock formed by mechanical fragmentation and frictional grinding during faulting, without significant recrystallization. It is typically found in fault zones and is characterized by a fine-grained matrix surrounding larger, angular fragments of rock. Cataclasites are important in understanding fault mechanics and the deformation of the Earth’s crust.
Source Sibson, R. H. (1977). “Fault Rocks and Fault Mechanisms.” Journal of the Geological Society, 133(3), 191-213.