Innovative applications of laser scanning and rapid prototype printing to rock breakdown experiments

Abstract We present the novel application of two technologies for use in rock breakdown experiments, i.e. close‐range, ground‐based 3D triangulation scanning and rapid prototype printing. These techniques aid analyses of form–process interactions across the range of scales relevant to breakdown (µm‐m). This is achieved through (a) the creation of DEMs (which permit quantitative description and aanalysis of rock surface morphology and morphological change) and (b) the production of more realistically‐shaped experimental blocks. We illustrate the use of these techniques, alongside appropriate data analysis routines, in experiments designed to investigate the persistence of fluvially‐derived features in the face of subsequent wind abrasion and weathering. These techniques have a range of potential applications in experimental field and lab‐based geomorphic studies beyond those specifically outlined here. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.