Constructing Digital Rocks

Gabrielle Labishak,* Anthony Minnick*, Allison Popp*, Mackenzie Stone* and Graham Andrews, Department of Geology and Geography, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506

Field (Broad Category): Geography/Geology (Agricultural & Environmental Sciences) 

Student’s Major: Geology 

As three-dimensional digital technology continues to grow in relevancy, it is important to understand its applications in the fields of geology and geoscience education. Our team has explored one application by utilizing three-dimensional modeling technology to construct digital samples of igneous and volcanic rocks. Igneous rocks, which vary greatly in color, texture, and composition, provide a wide range of samples to model; this range allows us to develop a consistent workflow that produces concise models for the vast majority of samples. This process involves thorough photography of the sample from hundreds of different directions, which can be easily achieved by placing the sample a rotating surface. Agisoft Metashape Professional software sorts the images into a collection of points identifiable in multiple adjacent images, that can be crafted into a complete, three-dimensional model. These models can then be shared online using SketchFab.com, which allows us to build a comprehensive library of digitalized rock samples. From here, the rock samples are made available to the general public and can be shared directly with other organizations, institutions, universities, or individuals. The sample sharing process is greatly streamlined through the digitalization of samples, allowing us to send rock models across the globe with the click of a button. 

Funding: RAP and National Science Foundation 

Program/mechanism supporting research/creative efforts: WVU's Research Apprenticeship Program (RAP) & accompanying HONR 297-level course