Non-destructive characterization of stony meteorites

The characterization of meteoritic material is of fundamental importance to our understanding of the solar system and its processes of formation. Many meteorites are small, fragile and unique and thus the identification and subsequent preservation of this material is a priority. The present study investigates two non-destructive techniques of meteorite characterization and classification.; A new method of density determination and surface roughness description using 3D laser imaging has been evaluated on eleven stony meteorites. In addition, four magnetic parameters that show promise as classification tools were evaluated on 321 stony meteorite specimens: bulk magnetic susceptibility and its frequency dependence (825 and 19000 Hz), and the degree and shape of the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility.; Densities determined using 3D laser imaging compare very well with previously published values. 3D laser imaging is the least invasive method of density measurement currently available and may provide a more accurate estimate of the meteorite's bulk volume than other methods. A measure of surface roughness is proposed using a pilot approach.; Chondrites show a clear trend of increasing bulk susceptibility from LL, L, H to E probably governed by Fe-Ni metal and sulphide content; achondrite values are more varied. Frequency dependence is observed with variations in magnitude among meteorite classes. Degrees of anisotropy range from 1--53%. Strong oblate and prolate fabrics are observed among and within meteorite classes of chondritic and achondritic material pointing to a complex, multi-mechanism origin for anisotropy, more so than previously thought, and likely dominated by impact processes in the later stages of stony parent body formation.*; *This dissertation is a compound document (contains both a paper copy and a CD as part of the dissertation).